Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - As iGaming begins to flourish in Puerto Rico, ensuring the sustainability of its operations will be crucial, not only for the online sector but also for the market’s established land-based casinos. Juan Carlos Santaella Marchán, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Gaming Commission, recently spoke with SBC Noticias about the country’s expanding online gaming sector and the primary challenges the Commission faces in ensuring this vertical can achieve long-term balance with its brick-and-mortar counterparts. While Marchán acknowledged the Puerto Rican government’s success in integrating gaming under a unified regulatory framework, he identified the biggest challenge as preventing digital growth from undermining the land-based gaming sector. The Executive Director explained: “Physical casinos not only generate tax revenue that benefits tourism and the University of Puerto Rico, but also create jobs and support the hotel, entertainment, and broader economic sectors. “The digital environment, by nature, operates with leaner structures and more aggressive commercial strategies. Without proper balance, there could be a rapid migration of consumers toward online platforms with less local economic impact.” “Our regulatory market has an important advantage: we are not starting from scratch.” Puerto Rico Gaming Commission Executive Director Juan Carlos Santaella Marchán Marchán stated that the sustainability of the country’s gaming model will depend on continuous and effective real-time technological oversight, promoting legality through incentives, protecting land-based casinos as key tourism and economic drivers, strengthening responsible gaming and problem gambling prevention programs, and rapidly adapting regulations to new technologies, payment methods, and digital products. “Our regulatory market has an important advantage: we are not starting from scratch,” Marchán further noted. “We have over 75 years of casino tradition, a century-old horse racing industry, a modern legal framework, and regulatory proximity to the Anglo-Saxon model. However, the next level of maturity will be proving that the hybrid system can grow without one side destroying the other. That is where the true success of our jurisdiction’s regulatory model will be defined.” At SBC Summit Americas, Marchán is scheduled to participate in the ‘Regulator Rumble: The Future of LatAm’ panel, where he will discuss why a ‘land-based anchor’ model, in a continent rapidly embracing digitalization, can shield markets from volatility. Marchán elaborated on how this particular gaming model has helped safeguard Puerto Rico against market fluctuations. The Executive Director commented: “Market size and regulatory quality do not necessarily advance at the same pace. Some jurisdictions achieve massive digital volumes very quickly, but later face integrity problems, tax evasion, illegal operators, and political pressure to tighten regulations after the market has already experienced explosive growth. Image: Nancy Pauwels/Shutterstock “Our position is that regulatory stability has economic value in itself. An ecosystem where operators must maintain a physical presence, local infrastructure, and real ties to the jurisdiction creates a less speculative and more trustworthy market against aggressive expansion cycles. “That may result in slower growth, but it also reduces volatility and strengthens credibility. During the panel, we will argue that regulatory success should not be measured solely by projected market size, but by how much of that growth remains formalized, supervised, and protected against recurring risks.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Hub88 has signed a new content distribution agreement with TaDa Gaming, reinforcing its commitment to boosting player engagement for its operator partners. This partnership will see Hub88 integrate TaDa Gaming's game portfolio alongside its player engagement tools, such as the GiftCode and WIN CARD solutions. Jessica Inglott, Head of Supplier Relations at Hub88, stated: "We consistently seek suppliers that offer a blend of scale, quality, and a deep insight into diverse player tastes. "TaDa Gaming's robust localisation expertise and compelling game library are a significant asset to our platform." As a component of its 'glocalisation strategy', TaDa Gaming will provide its range of localised casino games to Hub88's worldwide partner network. Key titles include Fortune Gems 500, Gold Mine Express, Chicken Dash and Fortune Zombie Lightning. TaDa Gaming noted that this offering will be supported by over 240 additional titles spanning video slots, fish-shooting games, table games, cards, bingo, and crash games. Ray Lee, Director of Business Development at TaDa Gaming, commented: "Aligning with a leading platform like Hub88 marks a key achievement in our worldwide distribution plan. Our focus on player-centric content is strengthened by our specialised localisation. "This enables us to provide premium, customised entertainment that connects with international audiences. We are excited to collaborate on creating outstanding gaming experiences." A strengthened profile Hub88 has maintained its strong growth trajectory in 2026, further expanding its content portfolio with additional game developers. Games Inc recently joined Hub88's platform as the newest developer. Fiona Hickey, Managing Director at Games Inc, remarked that the agreement closely matches Games Inc's core principles. 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) - ELA Games is enhancing the visibility of its content through a strategic partnership with online casino resource platform Gamblizard. A dedicated ELA Games directory has been developed and launched on Gamblizard, giving iGaming professionals access to explore the studio’s full game portfolio. Gamblizard is positioned as an online casino encyclopedia and resource platform founded on principles of transparency, safety, and user-centered content—including casino reviews, bonus details, and responsible gambling guidance. Ethan Silberstein, Senior Content Expert at Gamblizard, remarked: “This collaboration enables us to present ELA Games in a clear and organized manner. Our objective is to deliver accurate and valuable insights into each title, helping users understand how the games function before playing them.” Gamblizard will offer comprehensive analyses of ELA Games’ titles, highlighting gameplay mechanics, storylines, and visual design to provide a thorough overview of the studio’s content library. Yaroslav Soloshenko of ELA Games stated: “Our partnership with Gamblizard marks a significant advancement in boosting our brand visibility. A custom-tailored directory on their reputable platform allows us to showcase the full depth and richness of our portfolio in one accessible location. We are excited to move beyond a simple list of games and instead present players and partners with an in-depth look at the immersive mechanics, distinctive art styles, and engaging gamification features embedded in every release.” In recent discussions, ELA Games shared insights with iGaming Expert on the benefits of diversified slot portfolios and session-based curation over relying solely on “hero games” in mature markets such as Denmark. 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) - ELA Games is boosting the visibility of its content lineup through a strategic partnership with Gamblizard, an online casino resource platform. A tailor-made directory for ELA Games is now live on the Gamblizard platform, giving iGaming industry stakeholders access to explore the studio’s full game portfolio. Gamblizard is known as an online casino encyclopedia and resource hub founded on the principles of transparency, safety, and user-centric content—including casino reviews, bonus details, and responsible gambling guides. Ethan Silberstein, Senior Content Expert at Gamblizard, stated: “This collaboration allows us to present ELA Games in a clear, organized way. “Our aim is to provide users with accurate, helpful details about each title, so they can grasp how the games function before they play.” Gamblizard will deliver in-depth analyses of ELA Games’ titles, highlighting game mechanics, storylines, and visual aesthetics to offer a comprehensive understanding of the studio’s content library. Yaroslav Soloshenko from ELA Games added: “Teaming up with Gamblizard is a great step forward for our brand visibility. Having a customized directory on their reputable platform lets us showcase the true breadth of our portfolio in one place. “We’re excited to have the chance to offer players and partners more than a basic game list—instead, we can provide a thorough, detailed look at the immersive mechanics, unique art styles, and gamified features we put into every single release.” ELA Games recently discussed with iGaming Expert the advantages of diversified slot portfolios and session-based curation, which outperform “hero games” in mature iGaming markets such as Denmark. 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) - EveryMatrix is set to enter its second Canadian province, having received conditional licensing approval from the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) to offer its iGaming technology in Alberta. The company will be authorized to provide its casino and sports platform technologies to licensed operators in Alberta, where the regulated iGaming market is anticipated to launch on July 13th of this year. This Alberta license signifies EveryMatrix's ongoing expansion across North America, where it already holds licenses in Ontario, as well as in the US states of Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Rani Axon, Market Manager for North America at EveryMatrix, stated: “Entering Alberta represents an exciting milestone for the Group as we further extend our presence into one of North America’s most appealing regulated markets. “This approval underscores the proficiency of our compliance team and our preparedness to meet regulatory standards in any market.” Leading titles from EveryMatrix’s in-house studio, Fantasma Games, will be accessible to licensed operators from the market's launch day, alongside aggregated content that offers further expansion possibilities. The iGaming supplier has already secured commercial agreements in Alberta for both its platform and in-house gaming content. Numerous operators are also planning to obtain licenses for the Canadian province. PointsBet and Caesars Entertainment have initiated pre-registration for residents in anticipation of opening day, while BetMGM, Betway, DraftKings, and FanDuel have all confirmed their intentions to enter the market. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - A judicial decision in Puerto Rico has supported businesses advocating for the reinstatement of a clear and competitive system for the distribution and licensing of gaming machines. The San Juan Court of Appeals has determined that the existing inconsistencies within Puerto Rico's laws concerning "MAJAR" gaming machines, which are installed in bars, shops, and smaller establishments, are no longer valid. Consequently, the Puerto Rico Gaming Commission (PRGC) is now required to re-establish a licensing application and regulatory framework for companies interested in providing MAJAR gaming machines. The PRGC will be responsible for overseeing and enforcing regulations pertaining to Puerto Rico's casino sector, gaming halls, sports betting franchises, gaming machine distribution, and horse racing. Regulations for individual gambling disciplines will continue to be managed under separate legislative acts, as Puerto Rico has not yet developed a comprehensive, unified charter to govern its entire gambling industry. In 2024/2025, thirty local businesses filed an appeal in San Jose, challenging the PRGC's justifications for denying their venues the ability to process gaming machine licenses under the new regulatory framework introduced by Regulation 9647. The San Jose ruling concluded that the PRGC could not indefinitely postpone or reject the processing of applications while simultaneously imposing new compliance requirements on operators. The court affirmed that businesses possessed the right to pursue licenses under the prevailing legal framework and that the regulatory body was obligated to create a functional "administrative pathway for applications to be reviewed and adjudicated." Patchwork rules and statutes Patchwork rules and statutes This legal dispute has highlighted the fragmented nature of Puerto Rico's gambling legislation, where various forms of gambling, including casino gaming, sports betting, route gaming machines, and online wagering, are governed by a collection of disparate statutes and administrative regulations rather than a single, consolidated gambling code. At the core of this controversy are MAJAR machines, which are slot-style gaming terminals typically found outside of casinos in authorized locations such as bars, restaurants, and convenience stores. For an extended period, the market operated in a largely unregulated environment, with thousands of machines distributed across the island under inconsistent supervision. Puerto Rican authorities aimed to modernize the system through Regulation 9647, which was approved in January 2025 by the Financial Oversight and Management Board. This new framework mandated individual licensing for each machine, required visible registration tags, implemented digital monitoring systems, and stipulated that all machines must connect to a centralized technological platform managed by the regulator. The PRGC officially launched the interconnection program in January 2026, providing operators with a 90-day window to demonstrate that they had secured contracts with certified technology providers capable of linking their machines to the government's monitoring network. Regulators contended that these reforms were essential for improving tax collection, enhancing operational transparency, and combating illegal gambling activities, which remain prevalent throughout Puerto Rico. Industry estimates continue to indicate that unlicensed operators hold a significant majority of the gaming machine and online gambling market share on the island. Operators, however, alleged that the regulator was applying the rules selectively and obstructing legitimate businesses from entering the legal market. The recent court ruling now compels the PRGC to process applications and reopen the licensing process for operators seeking to formalize their businesses under the new regulatory framework. This case has considerable implications for Puerto Rico's broader gambling industry. The revenue generated from machine licensing and oversight plays a crucial role in public finances, including funding allocated to the Puerto Rico Police Retirement System. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - A court ruling in Puerto Rico has sided with businesses seeking to restore a transparent and competitive framework for the distribution and licensing of gaming machines. The appeals court of San Juan has deemed that inconsistencies in Puerto Rico’s laws governing “MAJAR” gaming machines installed in bars, shops, and small venues are no longer enforceable. As such, the Gaming Commission of Puerto Rico (PRGC) must begin reintroducing a licensing application and regulatory framework for businesses wishing to provide MAJAR gaming machines. The PRGC will oversee the enforcement of laws related to Puerto Rico’s casino sector, gaming halls, sports betting franchises, gaming machine distribution, and horse racing. The individual laws for gambling disciplines will be maintained under separate acts, as Puerto Rico has not yet developed a standardized charter to govern its gambling sector. In 2024/2025, 30 domestic businesses brought an appeal to San Jose, disputing the reasons why the PRGC had denied their venues the right to process gaming machine licenses under the new regulatory framework introduced by Regulation 9647. The San Jose determination concluded that the PRGC could not indefinitely delay nor refuse the processing of applications while simultaneously imposing new compliance obligations on operators. The court held that businesses had the right to seek licenses under the existing legal framework and that the regulator was obligated to establish a functioning “administrative pathway for applications to be reviewed and adjudicated.” Patchwork rules and statutes The dispute has exposed the fragmented nature of Puerto Rico’s gambling laws, where casino gaming, sports betting, route gaming machines, and online wagering are governed through a patchwork of statutes and administrative regulations rather than a unified gambling code. At the center of the conflict are MAJAR machines: slot-style gaming terminals typically installed outside casinos in authorized venues such as bars, restaurants, and convenience stores. For years, the market operated in a semi-regulated environment with thousands of machines distributed across the island under inconsistent oversight. Puerto Rico authorities sought to modernize the system through Regulation 9647, approved in January 2025 by the Financial Oversight and Management Board. The framework introduced mandatory licensing for each machine, visible registration tags, digital monitoring systems, and a requirement that all machines connect to a centralized technological platform overseen by the regulator. The PRGC formally launched the interconnection program in January 2026, giving operators 90 days to prove they had contracted certified technology suppliers capable of linking their machines to the government monitoring network. Regulators argued that the reforms were necessary to improve tax collection, increase operational traceability, and clamp down on illegal gambling activity, which remains widespread across Puerto Rico. Industry estimates continue to suggest that unlicensed operators control a dominant share of the island’s gaming machine and online gambling activity. Operators claimed the regulator was selectively enforcing the rules and preventing legitimate businesses from entering the legal market. The court ruling now means that the PRGC is obligated to process applications and reopen the licensing pathway for operators wishing to regulate their businesses under the new framework. The case carries significant implications for Puerto Rico’s broader gambling market. Gaming revenues generated through machine licensing and oversight contribute to public finances, including funding tied to the Puerto Rico Police Retirement System. 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) - ELA Games and Gamblizard have officially entered into a new strategic partnership. This collaborative effort signals the launch of a custom-developed ELA Games directory on the Gamblizard platform, building a unified hub for the iGaming community to easily browse the studio’s continuously expanding game catalog. The directory provides a far-reaching showcase of the full ELA Games ecosystem. Visitors to Gamblizard will now be able to access in-depth breakdowns of the studio’s distinct games, with its signature game mechanics, immersive storylines, and striking visual designs fully on show. This integration improves upon basic game listings, giving users a complete grasp of the innovative design and narrative-driven entertainment that power ELA Games’ success, while also greatly enhancing Gamblizard’s resource hub. Yaroslav Soloshenko of ELA Games shared remarks on the strategic value of this integration: Teaming up with Gamblizard is an excellent step forward for our brand exposure. Hosting a tailored directory on their well-regarded platform lets us showcase the real depth of our portfolio in a single location. We are glad for the chance to offer players and partners more than just a simple game list, and instead deliver a full, detailed overview of the immersive mechanics, unique art styles, and gamified features we put into every single release. Ethan Silberstein, Senior Content Expert at Gamblizard, further stated: This partnership allows us to present ELA Games in a clear, structured format. Our goal is to provide users with accurate and practical information about each title, so they can understand how the games function before they play. Through the launch of this custom dedicated space, both ELA Games and Gamblizard highlight their shared focus on delivering outstanding, transparent, and easily reachable gaming content to the global iGaming industry. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Bally’s has announced its financial results for the first quarter ending March 31, characterizing them as “solid” with total revenue reaching $755.7 million, a 28.3% increase compared to the same period last year. The company’s performance during this quarter was bolstered by both internal growth and successful acquisitions. Revenue from land-based casinos and resorts amounted to $379.7 million, marking an 8.1% rise from the prior year. This revenue growth was also partly attributed to Bally’s completion of its merger with The Queen Casino & Entertainment in February 2025. Bally’s highlighted particularly strong performance from its properties in Baton Rouge and Marquette, which transitioned to land-based operations in late 2025 and early 2026, respectively. According to Reeves, Bally’s continues to experience positive momentum with its significant development projects, including its casino in Chicago, which he noted is the only casino within Chicago city limits and the largest casino in the state of Illinois. CEO Robeson Reeves stated: We are also progressing with the development of Bally’s Las Vegas at the former Tropicana site, which will share a 35-acre campus with Major League Baseball’s Las Vegas Athletics. Construction of the A’s stadium is well underway and on track to support the team’s 2028 season opening, while we are actively engaged in discussions with potential partners for exciting entertainment and retail ventures. In the fourth quarter of 2025, following regulatory approval from Australian authorities, Bally’s converted its loan to The Star Entertainment Group Limited (“Star”) into a 38 percent equity stake. Bally’s management team is providing valuable expertise and support to Star, and we are observing good progress in both revenue and cost-saving initiatives. In early May, Star announced the complete refinancing of its existing debt with a US$390 million facility from WhiteHawk Capital Partners, significantly enhancing the company’s liquidity and paving the way for continued recovery. Looking ahead, Reeves also indicated that Bally’s is focused on building a comprehensive global omni-channel gaming business, while simultaneously seeking further development opportunities in key 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) - Leading slots and table game provider Habanero has rolled out its game portfolio via Favbet Romania, making its full catalogue of slots and table games accessible to players through one of Romania’s well-established operator brands. Per the terms of this agreement, Favbet Romania customers will gain access to Habanero’s complete game portfolio, as the supplier works to strengthen player engagement and retention across regulated European markets and beyond. Favbet Romania has continued growing its footprint within Romania’s regulated online gaming sector, offering both casino and sportsbook products via a locally focused platform. This latest integration will see the operator add Habanero’s selection of game titles to its existing offerings. For Habanero, this launch marks another key milestone in its broader European expansion strategy, as the provider continues to expand its presence alongside licensed operators across the Central and Eastern European region. Toni Karapetrov, Head of Corporate Communications at Habanero, commented: Favbet Romania is a highly respected brand across Europe, and it’s exactly the type of partner we seek to collaborate with as we deepen our presence in this market. Romanian players have a strong appetite for our gaming content, and we’re confident our titles will resonate well with their player base. Romania is a key market for us, and launching with this operator is another significant step in our ongoing European expansion into high-growth regulated gaming markets. This partnership also underscores the steady global demand for Habanero’s gaming content, as the provider’s titles are recognized for blending robust mathematical design, proven gameplay mechanics and immersive thematic elements. Cristian Sapovici, Head of Casino, Favbet Romania, said: The partnership between Favbet Romania and Habanero has been strong from the very beginning, and this co-branded collaboration agreement marks an important milestone in strengthening our strategic alliance. Our shared goal is to deliver a more fully integrated gaming experience for players in Romania, supported by consistent promotional visibility, targeted dedicated campaigns, and a more prominent presence of Habanero’s content within the Favbet.ro ecosystem. This partnership follows a sustained period of European growth for Habanero, which now operates in 22 regulated European markets and counts leading industry operators including Entain, Sisal and Betway among its partner network. 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) - Spinomenal has reinforced its position in the Estonian market via a new content partnership with Entain NCE. The collaboration will grant Entain NCE’s Estonia-based brands, Ninja Casino and Boost Casino, access to Spinomenal’s popular game library through Light & Wonder’s OpenGaming™ platform. Players can now enjoy titles such as Majestic King, Demi Gods V, and Fairytale Beauties 2. Yossi Shayovits, Head of Business Development at Spinomenal, stated: Entain is one of the leading forces in the global gaming sector, and expanding our partnership with them in Estonia highlights the quality of our offerings. This marks a key milestone in an evolving relationship across multiple markets, and we are excited about future developments. Entain NCE, a subsidiary of Entain, manages operations across several Northern and Central European markets. The latest rollout in Estonia further extends Spinomenal’s established collaboration with Entain in regulated European jurisdictions. Andreas Larsson, Casino Manager for Entain, remarked: Spinomenal consistently delivers content that resonates deeply with our players. Estonia represents the next phase in a highly successful partnership that we anticipate will yield strong results. Through Entain NCE, Spinomenal continues its international expansion by introducing its content to a highly engaged player base in Estonia. 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) - Hub88 has announced a new collaboration with TaDa Gaming, adding the supplier’s range of localized casino content and player engagement solutions to its worldwide network of operators. Under this arrangement, Hub88 will incorporate TaDa Gaming’s collection of over 240 titles, including video slots, fish-shooting games, table games, card games, bingo, and crash games. Well-known titles such as Fortune Gems 500, Gold Mine Express, Chicken Dash, and Fortune Zombie Lightning are now available to Hub88’s partners. The partnership also encompasses TaDa Gaming’s engagement solutions, GiftCode and WIN CARD, which have contributed to strengthening the supplier’s market position. The studio’s strategy emphasizes “glocalisation”, merging established game mechanics with region-specific content designed to align with local player preferences. Jessica Inglott, Head of Supplier Relations at Hub88, said: We are consistently seeking to collaborate with suppliers that offer scale, quality, and a clear understanding of diverse player preferences. TaDa Gaming’s robust localization capabilities and its highly engaging game selection make it a valuable addition to our platform. This collaboration represents another addition to Hub88’s growing supplier network as operators continue to pursue more customized gaming experiences that yield measurable outcomes. Ray Lee, Director of Business Development at TaDa Gaming, said: Partnering with a major platform like Hub88 is a key milestone in our global distribution strategy. Our player-focused content is enhanced by our expert localization approach. This enables us to deliver high-quality and customized entertainment that resonates with audiences worldwide. We look forward to providing exceptional gaming experiences together. 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) - Spain's Ministry of Consumer Affairs has directed the DGOJ to initiate a public consultation regarding proposed amendments to the nation's Gambling Regulation Act (Law 13/2011). The Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ) has been tasked with collecting input on reforms intended "to modernise gambling laws in response to the growth of online gambling and new technologies." This public consultation will remain open until June 22, 2026. Feedback is sought on proposed changes that would prohibit gambling operators from utilizing celebrities, public figures, and influencers in their advertising and customer acquisition efforts. Additionally, the consultation will examine restrictions on "organic search engine advertising." As part of its Agenda 2030, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs will continue to review and propose new federal directives concerning gambling violations. Revisiting the ban on celebrity endorsements The prohibition on influencer and celebrity endorsements was initially slated for inclusion in the Royal Decree on Advertising, which established a new federal code for media, including a ban on welcome bonuses and limiting gambling advertisements on television and radio to the hours between 1 am and 5 am. However, this measure was challenged in the Supreme Court by Jdigital, Spain's online gambling industry association. In 2024, Jdigital successfully argued that the DGOJ had circumvented oversight and that the ban on influencer/celebrity endorsements lacked sufficient legal grounding when assessed as part of a broader package of federal laws aimed at improving restrictions. The DGOJ is now returning to this mandate, expanding its scope to include provisions that gambling offers should only appear in search results when users are specifically searching for betting or gambling-related terms. The reform aims to update Spain's 15-year-old gambling legislation and better accommodate the expansion of online gambling and digital platforms. The overarching goal is to enhance consumer protection, bolster prevention strategies, and provide more robust tools to combat illegal gambling. This consultation is a component of a wider gambling harm prevention strategy by Spain's Ministry of Consumer Affairs. Spain has confirmed that its new mandatory algorithm for detecting problem gambling will be implemented across all licensed operators. This reform is part of a new technology-driven initiative being developed by the DGOJ to improve security, control, and prevention measures within the gambling sector. Key measures already introduced include: The deployment of an automated algorithm designed for the early detection of risky gambling behavior patterns. The establishment of a Joint Deposit Limits System to prevent users from circumventing restrictions by switching between different platforms. The Protocol for Action on Identity Fraudulent Taxpayers (PACS), developed in collaboration with law enforcement and the Spanish Tax Agency. The launch of the "Stop Juego" mobile application, which facilitates voluntary self-exclusion and the immediate blocking of access to gambling sites. The introduction of new advertising warnings that emphasize operators' financial benefits rather than solely focusing on individual responsibility. The DGOJ asserts that these technical changes will implement some of the most stringent controls and surveillance standards for gambling licenses among EU member states. Nevertheless, the authority has remained vague regarding the implementation details of its proposed technical controls, with most still undergoing beta testing. In March, DGOJ Director General Mikel Arana provided the initial update on the technical measures, stating that the proposed monitoring system analyzes over 60 behavioral and transactional variables in real time. The algorithm has not yet been tested in a live operational environment. The DGOJ has instructed operators to prepare for its implementation in the coming months, although no technical specifications for integrating gaming and compliance platforms have yet been provided to licensees. 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) - India’s government has issued a warning that prediction market platforms like Polymarket are targeting players, even as a ban on online real money games (RMG) is being rolled out. In a notice from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), it was stated that players are evading restrictions by using virtual private networks (VPNs) and converting Indian rupees into stablecoins such as USD Coin to facilitate transactions. The statement noted: “This raises serious concerns regarding illegal online betting, bypassing of regulatory systems, possible financial risks, and dangers to public order and economic stability.” Similar to many countries worldwide, India has explicitly banned prediction market platforms—here, under Section 69A of India’s IT Act. Prediction markets aren’t the only gambling-related products to be banned; a prohibition on online gaming was introduced in August 2025 following the passage of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Rules Act (PROG Act). MeitY reminded intermediaries like VPN providers of their obligations under India’s IT Act and IT rules to ensure their services are not used to access websites prohibited by Indian law. The Ministry stated: “Given the gravity of the situation, MeitY hereby reiterates with increased emphasis that all VPN service providers and other intermediaries must make reasonable efforts to avoid hosting, storing, or allowing access to any such platforms offering unlawful information—including ‘Polymarket’ and other similar non-compliant platforms operating in violation of the law.” MeitY is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the PROG Act, and enforcement of the online gaming ban began on May 1. Under the legislation, all apps, devices, and services involving real-money gaming mechanisms and transactions are prohibited. Those found violating the laws by promoting or advertising such services can face penalties of up to three years’ imprisonment and fines of up to ₹1 crore (€82,469). MeitY added that any VPN provider failing to fulfill its duty of conducting necessary due diligence to prevent access to gambling platforms could face legal action and would not be protected by sections of India’s IT rules that grant exemptions for third-party links or data shared via their services. As of the time of writing, India is not among the 33 countries listed as completely restricted from accessing Polymarket on the platform’s website. However, Polymarket does warn users that using a VPN to access its platforms in these restricted countries violates its terms of service. 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) - Spain's Ministry of Consumer Affairs has directed the Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ) to initiate a public consultation regarding proposed amendments to the nation's Gambling Regulation Act (Law 13/2011). The DGOJ has been tasked with collecting feedback on reforms intended to "modernise gambling laws in response to the growth of online gambling and new technologies." This public consultation will remain open until June 22, 2026. Feedback is sought on proposed changes that would prohibit gambling operators from utilizing celebrities, public figures, and influencers in their advertising and customer acquisition efforts. Additionally, the consultation will examine restrictions on "organic search engine advertising." As part of its Agenda 2030, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs will continue to review and propose new federal directives concerning gambling-related infractions. Revisiting the ban on celebrity endorsements The prohibition on influencer and celebrity endorsements was initially slated for inclusion in the Royal Decree on Advertising, which established a new federal code for media, including a ban on welcome bonuses and limiting gambling advertisements on television and radio to the hours between 1 am and 5 am. However, this measure was contested in the Supreme Court by Jdigital, Spain's online gambling industry association. In 2024, Jdigital successfully argued that the DGOJ had circumvented oversight and that the ban on influencer/celebrity endorsements lacked a sufficient legal foundation when assessed as part of a broader package of federal laws aimed at improving restrictions. The DGOJ is now revisiting this mandate, expanding its scope to include a requirement that gambling offers only appear in search results when users are specifically searching for betting or gambling-related terms. The reform aims to update Spain's 15-year-old gambling legislation and better accommodate the expansion of online gambling and digital platforms. The overarching goal is to enhance consumer protection, bolster prevention strategies, and provide more robust tools to combat illegal gambling. This consultation is a component of a wider gambling harm prevention strategy by Spain's Ministry of Consumer Affairs. Spain has confirmed that its new mandatory algorithm for detecting problem gambling will be implemented across all licensed operators. This reform is part of a new technology-driven initiative being developed by the DGOJ to improve security, control, and prevention measures within the gambling sector. Key measures already introduced include: The deployment of an automated algorithm designed for the early detection of risky gambling behavior patterns. The establishment of a Joint Deposit Limits System to prevent users from circumventing restrictions by switching between different platforms. The Protocol for Action on Identity Fraudulent Taxpayers (PACS), developed in collaboration with law enforcement and the Spanish Tax Agency. The launch of the "Stop Juego" mobile application, which facilitates voluntary self-exclusion and the immediate blocking of access to gambling. The introduction of new advertising warnings that emphasize operators' financial benefits rather than solely focusing on individual responsibility. The DGOJ asserts that these technical changes will implement some of the most stringent controls and surveillance standards for gambling licenses among EU member states. Nevertheless, the authority has provided limited details on the implementation of its proposed technical controls, with most still undergoing beta testing. In March, DGOJ Director General Mikel Arana offered the first update on the technical measures, stating that the proposed monitoring system analyzes over 60 behavioral and transactional variables in real time. The algorithm has not yet been tested in a live operational environment. The DGOJ has instructed operators to prepare for its implementation in the coming months, although no technical specifications regarding the integration of gaming and compliance platforms have yet been shared with licensees. 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) - Bally’s Intralot and evoke have pushed back the deadline for talks regarding a potential takeover, though the specific reason for the extension hasn’t been confirmed. Rumors had been circulating for some time that Bally’s Intralot was planning to acquire evoke at a price of 50p per share. When the initial announcement of the possible deal was confirmed in late April, Bally’s Intralot had the option to extend the offer beyond the first deadline of 18 May 2026. evoke has since agreed to that request. Bally’s Intralot now has until 17:00 BST on 8 June 2026 to confirm whether it intends to move forward with the acquisition. However, this deadline can also be extended with the consent of the operator behind William Hill, 888 and Mr Green. Any offer from the Athens-listed company is subject to standard conditions and approvals, and Bally’s Intralot also reserves the right to adjust the offer’s terms—including price, the form and mix of consideration, and the transaction structure. “This is an opportunity we are pursuing with conviction.” Robeson Reeves, Chief Executive Officer at Bally’s Intralot Robeson Reeves, Chief Executive Officer at Bally’s Intralot, stated when the potential offer was first announced: “We have built a business with a margin profile that stands out in this industry. evoke has the scale. “We see a compelling opportunity to bring our operating model to a significantly larger business, and the potential to transform its financial performance through massive synergies that we are uniquely positioned to deliver. This is an opportunity we are pursuing with conviction.” evoke has been conducting a strategic review of its operations since December last year. During the operator’s recent FY2025 earnings call, Group CEO Per Widerström noted that discussions with Bally’s Intralot about a possible offer “remain active”. Attractive markets While the timeline for the evoke deal has been extended, Bally’s Intralot released its preliminary Q1 2026 results, with group revenue rising to €268.1m compared to the same period last year (Q1 2025: €95.6m), and adjusted EBITDA increasing to €100.2m (Q1 2025: €30.2m). During Bally’s Intralot’s FY2025 earnings call last month, Reeves explained the markets that caught the company’s attention when the opportunity to make an offer for evoke arose. The CEO acknowledged that due to market dynamics, Italy wouldn’t have initially stood out to Bally’s Intralot, but it does hold appeal for the firm. Romania and Spain were also highlighted. evoke operates the 888casino, 888sport, 888poker and William Hill brands in Italy and Spain, while the group also offers 888 and Winner in Romania. Reeves said at the time: “Romania is an attractive market and was on the list. There’s also a layering aspect—they’re a solid player in Spain, and we already have a presence there, so there’s logic to that. “With any M&A opportunity, you have to look at everything holistically. We need to take all appropriate steps. I see some of these as ways to speed up our growth. Building an international footprint like theirs would take many years at that scale, so we’ll review all opportunities. It’s a sensible fit.” 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) - Bally’s Intralot and evoke have extended the deadline for their discussions regarding a potential takeover, though the specific reason for this extension has not been officially confirmed. For some time, there have been reports suggesting that Bally’s Intralot was considering acquiring evoke at a price of 50p per share. When the initial announcement of this potential deal was made towards the end of April, Bally’s Intralot was granted the option to extend the offer beyond the original deadline of May 18, 2026. This extension has now been agreed to by evoke. Bally’s Intralot now has until 5:00 PM BST on June 8, 2026, to decide whether to proceed with the acquisition. However, this deadline can be further extended with the agreement of the operator, which also manages brands such as William Hill, 888, and Mr Green. Any offer submitted by the Athens-listed company will be subject to standard conditions and necessary approvals. Bally’s Intralot also retains the right to modify the terms of its offer, including the price, the form and mix of consideration, and the overall transaction structure. “This is an opportunity we are pursuing with conviction.” Robeson Reeves, Chief Executive Officer at Bally’s Intralot Robeson Reeves, Chief Executive Officer at Bally’s Intralot, commented at the time of the initial potential offer announcement: “We have established a business with a margin profile that distinguishes itself within this industry. evoke possesses the necessary scale. “We perceive a significant opportunity to apply our operating model to a considerably larger business, with the potential to enhance its financial performance through substantial synergies that we are uniquely positioned to deliver. This is an opportunity we are pursuing with conviction.” evoke has been conducting a strategic review of its operations since December of the previous year. During the company’s recent FY2025 earnings call, Group CEO Per Widerström indicated that discussions with Bally’s Intralot concerning a possible offer ‘remain active’. Attractive markets While the timeline for the evoke deal has been extended, Bally’s Intralot has released its preliminary results for the first quarter of 2026. Group revenue increased to €268.1 million compared to the same period last year (Q1 2025: €95.6 million), and adjusted EBITDA rose to €100.2 million (Q1 2025: €30.2 million). During Bally’s Intralot’s FY2025 earnings call last month, Reeves elaborated on the markets that attracted the company’s attention when the possibility of an offer for evoke emerged. The CEO acknowledged that while Italy might not have initially stood out due to market dynamics, it does hold appeal for Bally’s Intralot. Romania and Spain were also identified as key markets. evoke operates the brands 888casino, 888sport, 888poker, and William Hill in Italy and Spain. The group also features 888 and Winner in Romania. Reeves stated at the time: “Romania is an attractive market and was on our radar. There’s also a complementary aspect, as they are a solid player in Spain, where we already have a presence, so there is a logical connection. “With any M&A opportunities, a comprehensive evaluation is necessary. We must undertake all appropriate steps. I view some of these as ways to accelerate our growth. To achieve the international footprint they possess would take many years, and at that scale, so we will examine all possibilities. It represents a sensible alignment.” 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) - iGaming Ontario has rolled out BetGuard, a centralized self-exclusion platform that enables Ontario residents to block access to all regulated online gambling sites across the province via a single registration process. Available to users aged 19 and older, this platform allows players to self-exclude from every licensed operator in the province—including the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation’s Proline platform—without having to visit individual gambling websites separately. Players can select exclusion periods ranging from six months to five years, or set a custom duration. Once activated, these exclusions cannot be canceled or shortened, though users can extend their chosen exclusion timeframe. This launch comes as Ontario’s regulated iGaming market continues to grow rapidly, with the province now home to 44 licensed operators and 76 gaming websites that generated more than $4 billion in revenue during 2025. Joseph Hillier stated that the expansion of the regulated market also elevates the need for heightened responsibility toward vulnerable players and those at risk of gambling harm. He described BetGuard as a “simple, secure and effective” tool designed specifically for the province’s digital gambling ecosystem. Hillier added that responsible gambling measures have remained a core focus since he took over leadership of iGaming Ontario in late 2025, with the regulator continuing to explore additional player protection tools used in other jurisdictions. Paul Burns praised Ontario’s approach, noting that operators in the province have largely embedded responsible gambling into their business models while maintaining a competitive and innovative market environment. He also stressed the importance of ongoing public education to help players better understand gambling products and responsible gaming practices. 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) - Kaizen Gaming’s Betano has entered into a regional partnership with the FIFA World Cup 2026. Through this collaboration, Betano will serve as an official supporter of the tournament across Europe and South America, which is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. This marks Betano’s third partnership with FIFA, following their role as the inaugural sports betting sponsor during the 2022 World Cup and their involvement as a partner in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. FIFA’s Chief Business Officer Romy Gai commended Betano for its dedication to maintaining sports integrity and enhancing fan engagement, as well as its expanding footprint in key regulated markets such as the UK, Germany, Peru, and Brazil. Romy Gai, chief business officer at FIFA, stated: Since we first partnered with Betano four years ago, we have witnessed a strong commitment to sporting integrity, efforts to bring fans closer to the game, and innovative approaches to entertain them. We align on these goals and are pleased to have this leading brand supporting us as we prepare to unite the world through football in North America and beyond. George Daskalakis, co-founder and CEO of Kaizen Gaming, commented: Securing a third partnership with FIFA is a significant milestone for Kaizen Gaming and reflects our global growth trajectory. Our priority now is to provide fans with an exciting, innovative, and secure experience throughout the tournament. The 2026 edition of the World Cup will feature a historic 48 national teams, following FIFA’s decision to expand the competition format. 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 indicated it may take legal action against proposed gambling affordability checks that operators argue could compel customers to disclose sensitive financial details. The BGC contends that the existing pilot program suffers from significant shortcomings, including inaccurate data and inconsistent outcomes from credit reference agencies. Operators believe the new rules—which would require up to 480,000 customers to submit verification documents—could negatively affect the financial stability of the UK’s regulated gaming sector. In a letter addressed to Charles Counsell, acting chair of the Gambling Commission, and Grainne Hurst, CEO of the BGC, the organization described the implementation of these regulations as “disproportionate” and warned it “could lead to legal challenges.” This correspondence with UK Secretary of State for Culture Lisa Nandy and Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross cautioned that the proposed system might drive players toward illegal, unregulated gambling operations, ultimately reducing tax revenues generated by the betting industry. While the Gambling Commission estimates only about 3% of all customers will be affected by the new measures, the BGC projects impacts on up to 10% of regular bettors and as many as 20% of those who wager more than £200 annually. Industry representatives view the regulations as “ineffective and counterproductive,” arguing that many customers may refuse to share verifiable economic information, prompting them to seek out illicit gambling channels. The Gambling Commission has clarified that no final decision has been made regarding the rollout of these regulations and emphasized that any future measures will be “evidence-led” and introduced gradually and cautiously. 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.