Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) announced that the nation’s gambling sector recorded PHP 87.6 billion (€1.22 billion) in gross gaming revenue in the first quarter of 2026, reflecting a year-on-year drop of 15.9%. Alejandro Tengco, PAGCOR chairperson and CEO, explained that the revenue decline was mainly driven by a 22.4% decrease across electronic gaming categories—including E-Games, E-Bingo, bingo, and poker—compared to the same period last year. Tengco attributed this downturn to several factors: increased fuel prices, ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and broader inflationary pressures that have led to reduced consumer spending. Licensed casinos remain the largest segment of the Philippine gaming industry, generating PHP 45 billion in Q1 revenues this year, though this marks a decline of over PHP 4 billion from the previous year. PAGCOR-operated casinos contributed only PHP 3 billion in Q1, accounting for less than 4% of total industry revenue. While the agency continues to pursue its long-term strategy of separating regulatory duties from casino operations by selling its gaming assets, these plans are currently under review by the national government. Despite the lower-than-anticipated revenue figures, Mr. Tengco maintains an optimistic outlook on the future of the Philippine gaming sector and expects consumer confidence to improve once global geopolitical conditions stabilize. Recently, PAGCOR disbursed PHP 5.7 billion in dividends to the National Government as mandated by law. Officials noted that these funds will support efforts to mitigate the impacts of the current fuel crisis. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - SBC Summit Americas 2026 is set to host David Edelman, the former Aetna CMO, Harvard Business School faculty member, and bestselling author. He will deliver an exclusive keynote address focusing on how artificial intelligence is redefining the ways companies identify, reach, and interact with their clientele. Edelman has established a prestigious career by influencing how organizations handle marketing and AI, having pioneered landmark concepts such as ‘Segment-of-One Marketing’ and the ‘Customer Decision Journey’ while advising various Fortune 500 entities. The keynote is scheduled for Thursday, June 11 (10:40–11:00) as a highlight of the ‘Leaders’ track. Titled Unlocking AI to Drive Growth, the presentation will examine how gaming firms can transition from using AI for operational tasks to utilizing it as a primary driver of commercial success. During the session, Edelman will discuss how brands can use automation and personalization at scale to revolutionize customer journeys across both physical and digital spaces, all while maintaining trust and responsibility. He will also provide a practical framework for CEOs to transform AI into a tool for long-term growth, supported by global examples from various industries. “David possesses a level of expertise that is rare among speakers, particularly in his ability to link AI with practical marketing strategies. This is precisely the type of knowledge our attendees are seeking,” said Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and Founder of SBC. With a career spanning over forty years, Edelman has become a leading authority in technology and marketing. He has been recognized by Forbes as one of the “Most Influential CMOs in the World” on several occasions and was named to Adweek’s ‘AI Trailblazers Power 100’ in 2025. Additionally, he commands a following of more than 1.1 million on LinkedIn. Edelman’s professional journey began in 1986 at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where his work with data led to his influential 1989 paper, ‘Segment-of-One Marketing’, which proposed individualizing marketing at scale. He later helped launch BCG’s e-commerce division before joining Digitas in 1999 to focus on analytics and CRM-driven digital experiences. In 2008, he joined McKinsey & Company to lead its global Digital Marketing practice. It was here that he introduced the ‘Customer Decision Journey’ in a Harvard Business Review cover story, a concept that changed how businesses track the path from brand awareness to customer loyalty. Regarding his participation, Edelman stated, “Many people mistakenly believe AI can just be added to current marketing plans, but it actually requires a complete strategic rethink. In this session, I will discuss how organizations can adjust their methods to use AI for more personalized and relevant customer engagement.” Edelman transitioned to corporate leadership in 2016 as the first Chief Marketing Officer for Aetna, where he oversaw a significant brand and digital overhaul. He enhanced marketing operations, positioned the company as a trusted health partner, and developed a robust customer experience strategy, also playing a role in the merger with CVS. Since 2020, he has provided strategic counsel through Edelman Advisory Services, assisting CEOs and CMOs in optimizing AI for marketing. His consultancy focuses on data utilization, team organization, and delivering personalized experiences that maintain a human connection and foster trust. In addition to his consulting work, Edelman teaches at Harvard Business School and is a noted author. He co-wrote the USA Today bestseller Personalized: Customer Strategy in the Age of AI, which details how organizations can leverage data and AI to improve customer relevance. Edelman’s session is part of a robust SBC Summit Americas agenda featuring 250 expert speakers across six stages. Topics will include sports betting, casino operations, leadership, technology, regulation, and player safety, all housed within the event’s ‘Knowledge Vault’ to provide attendees with practical industry insights. Want to attend SBC Summit Americas? Affiliates and operators are invited to apply for a complimentary VIP Pass, which provides full access to the exhibition floor, conference tracks, and high-level networking events. Other participants can select from various ticket tiers designed to meet different professional needs and budgets. You can view options and reserve your spot here. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Betano, a prominent gambling operator, has solidified its involvement with the World Cup by announcing a new partnership with FIFA. The sports betting and casino brand, owned by Kaizen, has confirmed its status as an ‘official tournament supporter’ for the World Cup across Europe and South America, prior to the event's commencement on 11 June. This development marks Betano’s second World Cup association with FIFA, building on its previous role as the football governing body’s inaugural sports betting industry partner during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Furthermore, the operator served as an official partner for the FIFA Club World Cup held last year. George Daskalakis, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Kaizen Gaming, stated: “Our third partnership with FIFA represents a significant milestone for Kaizen Gaming and clearly demonstrates our global growth.” Global Attention The World Cup is anticipated to significantly boost engagement for operators globally, particularly as it will be the first tournament to include 48 nations. FIFA data indicates that more than six billion individuals, approximately 75% of the global population, are expected to watch the tournament's 104 matches. Concurrently, figures from Spotlight Sports Group reveal that 70% of supporters in the UK, US, and Latin America intend to place wagers during the 2026 tournament. Daskalakis characterized the World Cup as the ‘ultimate intersection of sport and entertainment’ for billions of football enthusiasts worldwide. He further stated: “For us, this presents an ideal platform to establish Betano as the most reliable global brand for responsible online sports betting. Our current objective is to provide an exciting, innovative, and secure experience for fans throughout the tournament.” In regions like Europe and Latin America, where football holds unparalleled popularity, the tournament's significance extends equally to its off-field impact as it does to the on-field action. For instance, in Brazil, a market where Betano commands a substantial share, the tournament represents the inaugural global sporting event since the nation launched its regulated online sports betting market in early 2025. Commenting on the tournament's potential, Samuel Vilar Pereira, Head of Sportsbook at UX Group, informed iGaming Expert in February: “Every sector of society pauses during this period and begins to align their business with this occasion, given the widespread excitement among the populace. “Naturally, a significant surge in recreational bettors is anticipated to enjoy the event, and this enthusiasm will undoubtedly translate into increased engagement through a robust customer experience.” Expanding Football Partnerships Betano has established itself as a preferred betting partner for various football governing bodies. In addition to FIFA, the operator has collaborated with UEFA, serving as an official partner for the 2024 European Championships, the Europa League, and the Conference League. Domestically, Betano also maintains sponsorship agreements with clubs such as the Premier League’s Aston Villa, Brazil’s Flamengo and Fluminense, and River Plate in Argentina. Regarding the partnership, FIFA’s Chief Business Officer, Romy Gai, commented: “We are pleased to welcome Betano as one of the tournament supporters for the FIFA World Cup 2026. “Since our initial partnership with Betano four years ago, we have observed a steadfast commitment to sporting integrity, enhancing fan proximity to our game, and discovering novel, engaging entertainment methods. We align with these goals and are content to have this influential entity alongside us as we anticipate uniting the world through football once more in North America and globally.” 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 bill designed to protect young people in Argentina from the dangers of gambling has been submitted to the National Congress. Backed by Senator Beatriz Ávila, the legislation calls on both chambers of Congress to intensify their work to reduce the prevalence of gambling addiction among the nation's youth. Ávila explained that her goal is to stop the “normalisation of gambling that is preying on the lives of Argentina’s youth,” emphasizing the critical need for a country-wide prevention strategy. Citing recent figures from the Ombudsman’s Office revealing that 7% of citizens struggle with gambling issues, the senator argued for immediate action. The data also indicates there are over 19 million active gamblers across the country. The plan includes educational workshops in schools to highlight the dangers of online wagering. Additionally, teachers and staff would be trained to spot signs of problem gambling in students, and a referral system connecting educational institutions with health and social services would be established. To finance prevention and treatment initiatives, the bill proposes a 1% tax on all online bets placed in Argentina, placing a new financial obligation on operators. This measure is part of a larger political movement to impose stricter regulations on Argentina's booming online gambling sector, now one of the region's most rapidly expanding markets. In a separate development, National Deputy Karina Banfi has put forward a bill to prohibit gambling advertisements aimed at minors on TV, radio, social media, and other digital channels. Banfi's proposal would forbid operators from utilizing athletes, influencers, cartoons, or celebrities in ads targeting young people. It also seeks to block messages that associate betting with financial gain or personal success. Concurrently, Buenos Aires Senator Malena Galmarini is spearheading a related initiative focused on sports, seeking to limit betting sponsorships during athletic and community events. Should these measures pass, gambling logos would be barred from team uniforms, advertising would be banned within 100 meters of sports venues, and betting firms would be blocked from acquiring naming rights for stadiums. Discussions have heated up as major Argentine football clubs, such as Boca Juniors and River Plate, continue to grow their commercial ties with betting companies. Collectively, these legislative efforts indicate that Argentina's political leaders are gearing up to take a much tougher approach to gambling regulation, specifically regarding the protection of minors and sports marketing. 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 international brands of bet365 and Bwin are reported to hold the greatest profile and engagement within Spain’s evolving igaming market. New research conducted by YouGov has highlighted the ‘widening disparities’ of Spain’s igaming market, observing a shift in consumer behavior, demographics, and channel usage. The ongoing transition of Spain’s igaming sector is highlighted as “almost half of Spaniards (49%) claim they have never placed a bet of any kind”. This disconnect is even more pronounced among women, with nearly 60% stating they have never engaged in betting activity. Shifts are driven by younger male consumers, as participation across the wider Spanish population remains far from universal. Online gambling has become increasingly concentrated among younger male audiences; the YouGov study found that 47% of men hold at least one active online betting account, compared to 31% of women, while among 18–24-year-olds, 37% already maintain an active betting account. The report suggests that Spain’s digital gambling economy is now largely driven by audiences aged under 35 years old who engage with sportsbook, casino, and online betting products through mobile-first platforms, with participation levels declining sharply among older demographics. Online betting channels recorded the highest recent levels of engagement, with significantly stronger penetration rates among men and younger demographics. Football betting dominates youth trends However, YouGov’s findings also suggest that Spanish betting habits remain largely event-driven rather than habitual. More than 40% of younger bettors stated they only place wagers during specific sporting occasions, reinforcing the importance of major football fixtures, international tournaments, and seasonal sporting calendars in shaping Spanish betting activity. Football continues to dominate Spain’s online betting culture by a considerable margin. Among active sports bettors, 91% identified football as their primary betting sport. Tennis followed at 21%, while basketball accounted for 20% of betting interest. Formula 1, horse racing, and esports remained comparatively niche verticals. Football’s dominance continues to strengthen the positioning of international sportsbook brands, particularly bet365 and Bwin, which maintain the highest recognition among Spanish consumers under the age of 45. The study noted that both operators perform especially strongly among male audiences familiar with mobile sportsbooks and digital betting products. Beyond the market leaders, the research also highlighted differing demographic strengths among rival operators. William Hill demonstrated stronger engagement among consumers aged between 35 and 54, while Codere recorded notable traction within the 25–34 demographic. Meanwhile, more digitally native brands such as Winamax and Betway achieved stronger awareness among younger male consumers already engaged with online casino and poker products. Youth protections under-development At a political level, the heightened engagement of young Spanish males — particularly under-24s — with online gambling has become a central concern of Spain’s recent regulatory reforms under the Royal Decree governing online gambling environments. Measures agreed in 2024 introduced direct safeguards aimed at protecting younger audiences, requiring Spain’s gambling regulator, the Dirección General de Ordenación del Juego (DGOJ), to develop and maintain a centralised customer monitoring database for young players, alongside an algorithm designed to identify at-risk gambling behaviours. However, despite the regulatory mandate, the DGOJ has yet to present either system within live technical environments, leaving questions over how Spain intends to operationalise its enhanced player protection framework for younger online gambling audiences. 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) - Unibet has become the final brand under the FDJ United banner in the Netherlands to join the national gambling trade association, VNLOK. A recent announcement confirmed the operator's representation through its partnership with ZEbetting, another entity owned by FDJ United. Björn Fuchs, the Chairman of VNLOK, described the inclusion of all FDJ United brands within the organization as a ‘positive development’ for the local industry. He remarked: “It is more crucial than ever for the sector to work together proactively on responsible gaming and protecting consumers. “We anticipate further progress in establishing a secure and sustainable online betting environment in the Netherlands alongside FDJ UNITED’s brands and our other members.” VNLOK further highlighted that this move completes the integration of all former Netherlands Online Gambling Association (NOGA) members, following the merger of the two groups in June 2025. Other recent additions to the trade body include bet365 and LeoVegas, who joined in November 2025, joining established members such as Gaming Nederland, Nederlandse Loterij, JOI Gaming, FPO Nederland, and Holland Casino. Unibet under KSA scrutiny The emphasis on responsible gambling from Fuchs is particularly relevant given Unibet's recent history. In April, the Dutch regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), flagged the operator after an audit revealed deficiencies in customer due diligence, specifically regarding transaction oversight and control protocols. At the time, a Unibet representative informed iGaming Expert that the company considers AML compliance vital for a fair market and has developed a remediation strategy in coordination with the KSA. Additionally, the KSA imposed a €4m penalty on Unibet in December 2025 for failing to meet its duty of care obligations. Commenting on the VNLOK association, Sanna van Doorn, General Manager for Unibet Netherlands, stated: “Through industry-wide cooperation, we can enhance player safety and support a trustworthy online gaming landscape in the Netherlands.” She also noted the value of collective efforts in maintaining a healthy market, pointing to Unibet’s role as a founding member of NOGA in 2019. 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) - Last week in the iGaming industry has been marked by notable volatility and divergence between the trading behaviors of large-cap companies and small-cap companies. Major companies seem to have seen moderate declines, while smaller–cap firms showed much more extreme price movements, highlighting a stronger differentiation factor affecting both individual company risk and overall market risk under current liquidity conditions. iGaming Sector: Weekly Stock Analysis Large-Cap Leaders Flutter Entertainment PLC (-1.57%) – The largest iGaming operator by market cap at $16.01 billion, with $17.02 billion in revenues. DraftKings Inc (-0.60%) – Showed relative strength compared to peers, with strong trading volume (12.9 million), second only to Flutter. Churchill Downs Incorporated (-1.13%) – One of the few large-cap performers that outperformed its peers during the week. Mid-Tier Operators Super Group (SGHC) (-0.76%) – Under slight downward pressure, reflecting cautious sentiment among international sports betting operators. Rush Street Interactive (-1.47%) – Suffered a sharper share price decline than competitors despite sustained long-term growth from U.S. online casino and sports betting operations. Brightstar Lottery (-3.51%) – Among the weakest mid-tier performers in the iGaming segment. Accel Entertainment (-0.85%) – Remained relatively stable but still ended slightly negative, consistent with the low-volatility nature of its distributed gaming operations in the U.S. Small-Cap Gambling.com Group (-42.03%) – Recorded the most dramatic move across the entire sector, reflecting a sharp sell-off. SEGG (+23.84%) – The top performer of the week, driven by speculative buying and highly volatile trading activity. High Roller Technologies (-12.20%) – Plunged amid ongoing liquidity issues and weak investor confidence in early-stage operators. Bragg Gaming (-9.39%) – Continued to face downward pressure, reflecting cautious sentiment toward B2B content providers amid mixed demand. Codere Online (+1.06%) – One of the more stable small-cap digital players, supported by modest gains and steady trading. Inspired Entertainment (+0.14%) – Effectively flat, reflecting balanced sentiment between its B2B exposure and stable recurring revenue streams. In summary, all segments of the iGaming sector are increasingly characterized by risk segmentation, where liquidity, scalability, and visibility into profitability are now the primary factors guiding capital allocation. Investors are gravitating toward established platforms, while smaller operators continue to experience heightened volatility and sentiment-driven performance swings. 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) - Evoplay has debuted a fresh organizational framework centered on the introduction of Evoplay Studios, intended to boost production volume and enhance the localization of its game library. This updated approach integrates various internal units into a single system, enabling them to produce slots and casino titles with more creative freedom while utilizing Evoplay’s established technological infrastructure. According to the firm, the setup is intended to “expand production without compromising excellence” and facilitate more adventurous creative paths as the brand grows internationally, following its recent entry into the Brazilian market via a deal with Oleybet. Ivan Kravchuk, CEO of Evoplay, stated: By organizing our operations within a cohesive yet adaptable system, we can increase our game output while maintaining the high standards of quality and ingenuity that characterize our brand. Integrating several teams under one umbrella allows us to accelerate development, broaden our reach, and provide operators with a more varied selection of games. This strategy provides the liberty to investigate new artistic concepts while relying on a robust, common base that guarantees uniformity, productivity, and sustainable growth. This reorganization comes after Diana Larina was recently named Chief Marketing Officer, as the provider continues to optimize its management team and expansion plans. 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) is considering legal action against the Gambling Commission (GC) should it proceed with the next stage of affordability checks for players, as it believes one in five customers could be required to disclose financial details. A board meeting at the Gambling Commission is set for Thursday, 21 May 2026, where Financial Risk Assessments (FRAs) may receive approval. These assessments aim to identify high-spending online gamblers who might be facing financial difficulties and offer them support. The GC states that these assessments would be automatically activated once a customer reaches certain spending thresholds and would rely on data from credit reference agencies. However, many industry stakeholders fear customers may be unwilling to share their personal information and could instead turn to unregulated or black market operators to avoid FRAs altogether. FRAs differ from Financial Vulnerability Checks (FVCs), which use publicly available data to detect customers who may be financially vulnerable. FVCs are triggered when a player’s net deposit exceeds £500 within a rolling 30-day period; a reduced threshold of £150 in net deposits over 30 days has recently taken effect. BGC takes a firm stance on affordability checks BGC Chief Executive Grainne Hurst sent a letter last month to the GC’s interim Chair Charles Counsell, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross, and the GC’s acting Chief Executive Sarah Gardner. In her correspondence, she expressed the trade body’s concerns about the proposed Financial Risk Assessments. Hurst argued that implementing FRAs would be “disproportionate and potentially open to legal challenge,” and questioned whether there was sufficient justification for their introduction. The BGC also highlighted that operators reported “serious failings” with the FRAs, including inconsistent data from credit reference agencies and the potential growth of the black market as customers seek to evade such checks by gambling through illegal platforms. “The evidence from the pilot is that financial risk assessments are not fit for purpose.” Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive of the Betting and Gaming Council Due to “significant problems with data relevance, accuracy and consistency” and “fundamental implementation issues,” the BGC contends that the assessments do not meet the standards outlined in the 2023 Gambling Act Review White Paper. Hurst wrote: “The evidence from the pilot is that financial risk assessments are not fit for purpose. “Therefore, if the Gambling Commission moves forward with implementation without addressing these findings, the BGC and its members must consider all available options. “Such an approach would harm consumers, damage the regulated industry, burden taxpayers, fuel the illegal market, and, most likely, be irrational.” Disagreement over the scope of data impact Recent data released by the Commission indicates that only 3% of customers would be subject to FRAs. However, the BGC disputes this figure, asserting that the actual proportion would be 5%, rising to 10% if only monthly wagering customers are considered, and further increasing to 20% if those with an annual net spend of £200 or less are excluded. Hurst stated: “Government ministers and Gambling Commission officials have consistently described the pilot phase as one of testing and evaluation. “If FRAs prove ineffective and lead to more customers using illegal operators to avoid checks—or if alternative methods exist that fulfill the objectives set out in the white paper (including those already being implemented)—then they should not be introduced.” ‘Left with little choice but to consider legal challenge’ Although the BGC informed SBC that the letter had not been shared with any journalist, a spokesperson said: “We urge the Gambling Commission to thoroughly review these proposals before taking any further steps. “Evidence from the Commission’s own pilot shows that financial risk assessments are far from frictionless, with serious inconsistencies in the data and a real risk that large numbers of customers will face intrusive financial checks. This must work effectively for all customers, yet current evidence suggests these proposals are unsuitable and risk pushing people away from the regulated market toward the expanding illegal online gambling sector—where there are no protections or safeguards. Given the serious concerns raised by operators, there is a real possibility the industry may ultimately be forced to consider legal action if these proposals go ahead without additional scrutiny.” ‘Frictionless for the vast majority’ A Gambling Commission spokesperson reiterated to SBC that the checks would be largely frictionless for most customers if introduced. The GC spokesperson said: “We reaffirm that we continue to develop financial risk assessments, with one key focus being the removal of unnecessary friction for consumers. If implemented, the checks would apply only to a small number of highest-spending accounts and would be seamless for the vast majority of those assessed. No final decisions have been made, and we will soon present recommendations to our Board regarding next steps. We remain in regular contact with industry and other stakeholders as the pilot progresses, and will provide updates as this work continues. Any future rollout would be carefully evaluated, based on evidence, and introduced gradually and proportionately.” 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) - Asia’s gambling industry is starting to feel the effects of Middle East tensions, as rising living costs and declining tourism have contributed to falling gambling revenues in the Philippines. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Chair and Chief Executive Officer Alejandro Tengco explained that the beginning of 2026 saw a challenging start due to ongoing conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran, which has increased inflationary pressures and reduced consumer spending power. iGaming loses momentum in 2026 PAGCOR reported total revenue of P104.12bn (£1.26bn) for the first quarter of 2026, marking a decline of 15.87% compared to the same period in 2025. This drop was mainly driven by a 22.43% (£483.7m) year-over-year decrease in e-games revenue, which fell to P39.9bn. The Philippines’ iGaming sector had previously been a major growth driver for the country, expanding by 30% in 2025 despite economic challenges faced by land-based gaming. Tengco stated: “We attribute the first quarter dip to several factors, including softer discretionary spending amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and rising inflationary pressures.” In 2025, iGaming accounted for more than half of all gaming revenue, but this trend has not continued into 2026. PAGCOR-licensed casinos made up 50.83% of total revenue in Q1, while e-games contributed 45.55%, with PAGCOR-operated casinos providing the remaining 3.62%. A global effort to offset macroeconomic pressures Tengco had earlier called for closer cooperation among global gambling regulators to address challenges brought on by the Middle East conflict, which has caused oil prices to surge amid ongoing supply disruptions. “This is not a good time for everyone,” he said during the Manila After Dark conference in April. “Gaming jurisdictions worldwide are experiencing the impact of the oil crisis, and even progressive regions like Singapore, Macau, and the United States are not immune.” “It’s essential that we unite, maintain these discussions, and support one another within the industry.” Concerns about the impact on Asia’s gaming sector are expected to grow further after negotiations between the US and Iran appear to have stalled over the terms of a potential peace deal. Despite uncertainty around the timeline for peace, Tengco expressed confidence in the future of the Philippines’ gaming industry. “We remain hopeful that once geopolitical tensions ease, consumer confidence and discretionary spending will gradually recover, leading to improved industry performance,” he added. This month, PAGCOR remitted P5.67bn to the government under the Dividends Law, which mandates that all government-controlled entities contribute at least half of their annual net earnings to the state. Tengco noted that these ‘much-needed’ funds will enable the government to ‘alleviate the effects of the global oil crisis and pursue initiatives focused on meaningful economic and social transformation’. 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) - Hacksaw Gaming declares a new alliance with Swiss Casinos, introducing its unique range of slots to players through swisscasinos.ch. Swiss Casinos stands as Switzerland's premier casino group and is fully Swiss-owned. The organization manages physical casinos in Pfäffikon, St. Gallen, and Zurich, alongside its newest venue in Winterthur. It also oversees the online site swisscasinos.ch and Zurich's GEORGE Bar & Grill. Users of swisscasinos.ch have access to an extensive variety of online games, offering a true casino feel on desktop and mobile platforms across Switzerland. Patrick Mastai, Online Casino Director of Swiss Casinos, stated: Hacksaw Gaming stands out as true innovators who bring genuine creativity to the sector. We are delighted to establish this partnership and give our players the opportunity to enjoy games from their unique and thrilling portfolio. This deal signifies Hacksaw’s fourth operational partnership within the regulated Swiss market. Marcus Cordes, Operational CEO of Hacksaw Gaming, noted: Swiss Casinos is a prestigious operator known for its high standards and trust among players. Collaborating with such a renowned brand enables us to extend our unique content to a larger demographic in a market that is experiencing robust growth. In 2025, Swiss Casinos recorded a total revenue of CHF 207.1 million. The central casino gaming operations served as the key contributor, producing gross gaming revenue of CHF 192.4 million. Out of this sum, CHF 91.1 million was allocated to the Old Age and Survivors’ Insurance (AHV) system and to the cantons via casino taxes. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Gambling.com Group experienced a share price drop of more than 53% in the last five days after unveiling its Q1 2026 financial results and announcing significant restructuring initiatives. The firm’s stock fell steeply after releasing its quarterly earnings on May 14, dropping from over $5 earlier that week to roughly $2.44 in the most recent trading update. In the hours immediately following the result announcement, shares declined by more than 40%. Gambling.com reported that its total Q1 revenue rose to approximately $40.4 million year-over-year, while its adjusted EBITDA fell 43% to $9 million. This decline was due to weaker organic search performance and increasing operating expenses. As a result of these losses, Gambling.com reduced its Q1 guidance and also unveiled an AI-centric workforce reduction program, with expected annual savings of around $12 million—roughly an 8% reduction in total current costs compared to pre-program annual cost levels. According to Gambling.com’s newly appointed CEO Kevin McCrystle, the restructuring aims to help the company get back on track for “long-term sustained high-margin revenue growth” amid shifting search engine traffic trends, regulatory changes impacting funding levels, and to enhance overall service quality. The company now projects full-year revenue between $165 million and $170 million, down from its previous guidance of $170 million to $180 million. Its adjusted EBITDA guidance was also cut to a range of $45 million to $50 million. 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) - Oklahoma’s state legislature has secured a sweepstakes ban on their second attempt after overriding Governor Kevin Stitt’s May 7 veto. Both the state Senate and House in the Sooner State had advanced Senate Bill 1589, which targeted sweepstakes operators and their suppliers. Still, this legislation was among the 33 bills that Stitt vetoed earlier this month. This veto came as somewhat of a surprise given Stitt’s outspoken opposition to the gambling sector, but he defended his choice by stating the bill would criminalize “everyday apps people use for leisure” and “unnecessarily create a new felony and expand criminal liability to businesses and service providers.” Even with this setback, optimism lingered for the bill, as lawmakers had until May 29 to override the veto. But the override effort ended up unfolding far faster than expected, with the House voting 68-19 in favor of overriding the veto on May 14, and the Senate also casting a 34-10 vote in favor later that same day. BREAKING: Oklahoma’s Legislature has overturned Governor Stitt’s veto of the bill banning dual-currency sweepstakes casinos. The House vote was 68-19 (in support of overriding the veto), and the Senate vote was 34-10. The legislation will officially go into effect on November 1, 2026. (h/t @FSDiMasi). pic.twitter.com/QAfrrRPi9O — Daniel Wallach (@WALLACHLEGAL) May 15, 2026 The legislation will now take effect on November 1, and it classifies promoting unregulated gambling—including sweepstakes casinos—as a Class C2 felony. Individuals convicted of violating this law could face fines ranging from $500 to $2,000 and up to 30 days in jail. Oklahoma is now joining a growing list of states that have taken legislative steps to address sweepstakes casinos. Starting November 1, Oklahoma will join California, Connecticut, Indiana, Maine, Montana, New Jersey, and New York in explicitly banning sweepstakes casinos and dual-currency operating platforms. Most sweepstakes casino operators offer gameplay via dual-currency systems, and critics of this industry segment argue that these platforms function as de facto online casinos and should thus be subject to the same state laws as other gaming operations. Only eight U.S. states have legalized online casinos to date, with Maine becoming the most recent to do so in January. 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) - Coral is tapping into 1980s nostalgia to market the launch of its exclusive “Rewards Grabber” platform to UK audiences. Through a campaign developed by Wonderhood Studios, Coral is drawing on arcade nostalgia and retro gaming culture to promote its free-to-play rewards platform via a vibrant 1980s-inspired refresh. This campaign marks the latest addition to Coral’s “We’re Here For It” marketing strategy, which aims to position the heritage betting brand around humor and light entertainment for mainstream audiences. Chris Brocklehurst, Head of Brand at Coral, stated the campaign was designed to bridge the operator’s legacy with modern audiences during its centenary year. “In our centenary year, we’re leaning into the magic of classic 80s gaming with our Coral Rewards Grabber,” Launching this weekend on UK prime-time television, Coral’s advert was directed by Ben Dean of Magna Studios, whose prior commercial work includes campaigns for Nike UK, McDonald’s and Beats by Dre. Coral confirmed the campaign will run across linear television, BVOD, social media and out-of-home advertising, with media planning managed by PHD Media. Wonderhood Studios was named Coral’s new lead creative agency in 2025, following an advertising review by Entain across its heritage UK betting brands. The review formed part of Entain’s broader reassessment of brand strategy and marketing effectiveness for Coral and Ladbrokes amid increased competition and tighter regulatory scrutiny of gambling advertising. James Rafter, Creative Director at Wonderhood Studios, joked that while “hairstyles, music and fashion were better in the 80s”, the decade’s prize offerings were “a bit naff” – a contrast to the modern Coral Rewards Grabber. Myles Vincent, also Creative Director at Wonderhood Studios, added that Coral had fully embraced the “ambition and humour” of the concept to create a campaign that feels “unapologetically entertaining”. 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 remains a vocal critic of the Premier League’s tendency to align itself with unlicensed gambling operators, and is now applying direct pressure on six top-tier clubs. Simon Zinger—Entain’s Group General Counsel and Chief Customer Care Officer—has sent letters to the chairpersons of Burnley, Bournemouth, Fulham, Everton, Sunderland, and Wolves regarding their ongoing promotion of 'predatory' black market gambling firms. He urged all six clubs to pledge to partner exclusively with UK-licensed gambling providers and cut ties with 96.com, BJ88, SBOTOP, Stake, W88, and DEBET—each linked to one of the clubs. A letter from Zinger to Bill Foley, chair of AFC Bournemouth (obtained by iGaming Expert), stated: “BJ88 is often linked to aggressive marketing strategies in areas where gambling is banned, frequently using unregulated payment options such as cryptocurrency to avoid financial supervision. “By taking sponsorship from a company that operates outside the bounds of international law, Bournemouth is actively validating the framework that supports the global black market.” Zinger further noted that companies like BJ88 employ 'predatory' practices to target vulnerable populations, including problem gamblers and minors. In a letter to Everton’s Chief Executive Officer Angus Kinnear, Zinger was equally critical of Stake—a prominent crypto casino that has been featured on Everton’s jerseys since the start of the 2022/23 Premier League season. He characterized the operator as a 'focal point for worries about money laundering and insufficient player safeguards,' citing its use of streamers to reach younger audiences. Only two matches remain in the current Premier League season before clubs must comply with a ban on gambling sponsors appearing on the front of their shirts. Bournemouth has confirmed that health insurance provider Vitality will take over as their front-of-shirt sponsor, while Everton is reported to have signed a £30m deal with financial services group CMC Markets. However, there are no restrictions preventing Premier League clubs from partnering with entities like BJ88 or Stake for other sponsorship opportunities, such as sleeve ads. Gambling Commission rules state that football clubs only need to ensure UK players cannot access gambling sites to meet compliance guidelines. Due to the narrow scope of these rules, Zinger said he is directly appealing to clubs to adopt a firmer stance on their marketing practices. Echoing sentiments across both letters, he said: “Under the Premier League Owners’ Charter, [the clubs] have pledged to operate [themselves] ‘in an economically stable, sustainable, and socially responsible way’ (Point 3) and to conduct [their] affairs ‘with good faith, honesty, and the highest standards of professional conduct and sporting integrity’ (Point 10). “Based on the evidence provided, a front-of-shirt partnership with an unlicensed gambling operator is incompatible with either commitment. The clubs deserve better than to be compromised by harmful sponsors.” The UK government has launched a consultation on prohibiting British sports teams from partnering with unlicensed operators. But Zinger expressed concern that such a ban would not take effect in time to impact next season’s sponsorship deals—so Entain decided to reach out directly to the clubs. Earlier this month, the group also wrote to the Independent Football Regulator (IFR) urging it to include illegal gambling in its mandate, which prevents English football clubs from accepting revenue ‘connected to serious criminal activity’. Entain’s Chief Executive Stella David argued that some Premier League clubs continue to be sponsored by ‘criminal gambling firms’, as these companies violate the Gambling Act 2005 by accepting bets from British consumers. David said: “The IFR can end this immediately by simply recognizing that unlicensed gambling companies targeting UK customers via English football are breaking the law—plain and simple. “The regulator doesn’t need new powers, legislation, or even a new rule to do this; it already has a draft rule in place. We’re asking the regulator to finalize and enforce it before next season begins. The IFR was created to fix English football’s governance failures, and this is one of them.” Beyond football, Entain has committed to collaborating with the broader industry to address the threat of the black market amid ongoing tax changes and regulatory reforms. Speaking at February’s BGC annual general meeting, Zinger stated that the company has set up a dedicated task force to gather information for relevant authorities, to guide enforcement actions against black market operators. 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) - Blueprint Gaming’s Game of Thrones slot title was dethroned in bet365’s UK slots rankings for April. The operator reported that the slot inspired by the popular TV series advanced 26 positions, rising from 28th in March to second place on the UK charts last month. Other notable movers in the UK rankings included Sizzling 7s Fortune, which climbed five spots to third, and Age of the Gods: God of Storms, which surged 27 places to fourth. However, none could challenge Gold Cash Freespins for the top spot, which retained its position at number one. Fishin’ Frenzy The Big Catch rounded out the top five, dropping one place. Image: bet365 bet365’s games rankings encompass more than 7,500 titles across 20 markets, now including Michigan following the operator’s entry into the state. An algorithm evaluating game revenue, stakes, sessions, and player engagement determines performance each month, with popularity varying by country. In Europe, Spain introduced two new entries in its top ten: Pirots 4 in fourth and Age of the Gods: Ruler of the Sky in tenth. Big Bass Vegas Double Down Deluxe held fifth, while Mega Fire Blaze Big Circus! moved up three spots to third. Gates of Olympus Super Scatter advanced one place to second. Nevertheless, it was Age of the Gods: God of Storms that claimed first place in April, jumping 27 positions. In Greece, Stacked Fire 7’s ascended to the summit, displacing Rich Wild and the Tome of Madness down to second. The Dog House Megaways rose 10 spots to third, followed by Super Hot Fruits dropping one to fourth and Blue Wizard falling three to fifth. In Germany, Royal Seven XXL seized the top position, advancing 11 spots and pushing Legacy of Dead down to second. Cash Connection – Golden Book of Ra moved up one to third, Book of Dead rose two spots to fourth, and Ramses Book dropped three to fifth. Image: bet365 Across the Atlantic, Michigan launched its inaugural chart with Divine Fortune at the top, followed by Capital Gains, Bonanza, Fire Blaze – Jinns Moon, and 7’s Fire Blitz Hotstepper completing the top five. All five titles maintained the same rankings in Pennsylvania, with Divine Fortune and Bonanza as new additions. New Jersey also saw two newcomers in its top five: Mystery of the Lamp Treasure Oasis in fourth and Piggy Payouts Bank Buster LuckyTap claiming first. Platinum 8x8x8x fell one spot to second, Cash Eruption jumped four places to third, and Hypernova Megaways closed the top five. Image: bet365 In Ontario, Area Link Bank Boss led the pack, climbing eight spots. Area Link Phoenix Firestorm, Gates of Olympus Super Scatter, and bet365 High Flyer both advanced two spots to third and fourth, respectively. Blue Wizard finished fifth after surging 18 places up the rankings. Across Canada, Area Link Dragon Ascension debuted at the top, followed by Amazing Link Zeus moving up one to second. Amazing Link Phoenix Firestorm dropped two to third, Area Link Bank Boss fell two spots to fourth, and Amazing Link Zeus Boost secured fifth after a two-place rise. Image: bet365 In Brazil, Gates of Olympus Super Scatter remained unchallenged at the top, while Oink Oink Oink climbed 11 spots to second. Stacked Fire 7’s advanced five places to third, Gates of Olympus moved up one to fourth, and Gold Trio 1000 completed the top five despite dropping three spots. In Brazil’s crash game charts, Aviator stayed at number one, JetX rose one place to second, bet365 High Flyer slipped one to third, FlyX Cash Turbo gained one spot to fourth, and FlyX dropped one to fifth. Image: bet365 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) - LuckyCasino has initiated compensation for Dutch players who gambled on its platform prior to the introduction of online gambling regulations in the Netherlands. Former LuckyCasino customers were notified via email about receiving refunds from their accounts, though no details were provided regarding how the amounts were calculated. Recipients must either already have or create a OneCasino account and log in to claim the offer. Additionally, if former LuckyCasino players need to submit immigration documentation to verify their identity before receiving payments into a bank account, onechrist.com stated, “the payment provider will not respond to queries about this.” This marks the first instance in history where an online gaming company has proactively reached out to players to issue refunds before regulatory oversight was established. Numerous settlements have occurred as a result of lawsuits filed against these companies. So far, rulings have largely favored players in each case, with several cases continuing through the courts. Currently, legal proceedings at the Supreme Court of the Netherlands are underway to address key questions about gambling contracts made before regulation. Earlier this year, the attorney general advised the Dutch Supreme Court not to declare all gambling contracts void but ruled that players remain eligible for repayment under certain conditions, including when the gaming company failed to fulfill its duty of care toward its players. 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.