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Playtech Denounces Evolution Lawsuit as “Baseless”

(AsiaGameHub) -   Playtech has quickly responded to the latest developments in its legal dispute with Evolution AB, asserting it will "defend itself vigorously" against what it characterized as a "baseless and without merit" defamation lawsuit filed in the United States. This response came after Evolution AB stated that it was escalating its legal battle by seeking to include Playtech as a defendant in its ongoing defamation case before a New Jersey Superior Court. With this action, Playtech is now named alongside Calcagni & Kanefsky LLP and Black Cube, with Juda Engelmayer and others also added to the proceedings. The company stated: As previously announced, Playtech stands by both the decision to commission the report at the centre of Evolution’s claims, and the validity of its findings. Evolution continues to seek to avoid legitimate scrutiny rather than addressing longstanding questions about its own conduct, including its decision to supply operators in both illegal and sanctioned markets and to support unlicensed operators in regulated markets. Playtech reaffirmed its stance on the investigation it commissioned into Evolution’s activities, an investigation that originated last year when Evolution first connected the company to the report. Playtech added: Playtech welcomes court and regulatory examination of the report and its findings and, importantly, the opportunity to be involved in the discovery process including to question Evolution’s employees, executives and officers in court. The company is very confident based on evidence it has, including recent additional evidence, that these proceedings will confirm the credibility and legitimacy of the report and the importance of the issues it seeks to address. Playtech will defend itself vigorously against Evolution’s claims and will continue to act in the best interests of industry operators, suppliers and regulators as well as its shareholders. Earlier, Evolution had accused Playtech of orchestrating a smear campaign intended to damage its standing and secure an advantage in the North American market. The filing includes accusations of “trade libel, fraud and racketeering,” and asserts that Playtech withheld crucial information from shareholders, despite the involvement of CEO Mor Weizer in the preparation and dissemination of the report. Evolution added: We are formally naming Playtech in our lawsuit because the facts are clear: Playtech hired Black Cube to create and publicise a defamatory report designed to harm Evolution, all while misleading the market and lying to investors about its role. For nearly four years, Playtech spent millions of dollars in legal fees to conceal its involvement in this smear campaign and avoid accountability. We are confident in our rigorous compliance policies and practices, and that the facts in this case are on our side. We look forward to holding Playtech, Black Cube, and all their accomplices accountable for the harm they have caused. 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.

2026-04-10

The board of Ainsworth recommends the latest share offer

(AsiaGameHub) -   An Independent Board Committee has provided a unanimous recommendation for investors to accept a share purchase bid from the son of the Ainsworth Game Technology (AGT) founder. Kjerulf Ainsworth, son of company founder Len Ainsworth, is offering shareholders AU$1.30 (£0.69) per share to purchase up to 5.5% of each investor's stake. This move could potentially increase his own ownership in the firm to a maximum of 13.29%. This follows a comparable offer made by Kjerulf Ainsworth last year at the same price point, which concluded on 30 January and resulted in him securing 318,529 shares.  A message to shareholders from the Independent Board Committee stated: “While the Proportional Offer only involves a small fraction of your Ainsworth Shares, the Independent Board Committee believes the Offer Price represents an acceptable premium and has consequently recommended unanimously that Ainsworth Shareholders accept the Proportional Offer of $1.30 per Ainsworth Share (barring any superior proposal).” The committee pointed out that the bid carries a premium of over 23.8% compared to AGT’s closing share price the day before the announcement, and a 23.6% premium over the one-month volume-weighted average price of AGT shares traded prior to the announcement date. Ongoing dispute with Novomatic This bid is the most recent development in the protracted battle for control over AGT. Kjerulf Ainsworth launched his initial offer as a response to takeover attempts by Novomatic, which remains the primary shareholder in AGT, to acquire the slot machine manufacturer. That specific attempt failed when Novomatic’s Transaction Implementation Deed was ended in February. Nevertheless, the Austrian organization has continued to grow its stake in AGT to 67.39% via an off-market takeover effort. Novomatic had offered shareholders AU$1 (£0.53) per share, a figure that investors, spearheaded by Ainsworth, claimed at the time was a significant undervaluation of the company.  This occurred despite the Independent Board Committee also supporting Novomatic’s bid and advising shareholders to accept it if no better offer was presented. In addition to the shares from his first bid, Ainsworth has bought another 2.7 million shares on the market at prices between AU$1.04 (£0.55) and AU$1.09 (£0.59), according to the latest update. AGT shareholders have until 27 April to reach a decision on the proposal, unless the cutoff date is extended as has happened previously. 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.

2026-04-10

Hollywoodbets Expands South African Reach with Tom Horn Gaming Partnership

(AsiaGameHub) -   Hollywoodbets has expanded its gaming library in South Africa by entering into a new content agreement with Tom Horn Gaming. Under this partnership, Tom Horn’s suite of games—featuring popular titles such as the 243 Crystal Fruits series, Book of Aladdin, and Majestic Coins—is now accessible to Hollywoodbets customers across the country. Wade Dorkin, Head of Product at Hollywoodbets, stated: “We are excited to bring Tom Horn Gaming’s portfolio to our South African players. “Their games are known for creative design and compelling mechanics, making them an excellent addition to our platform. This deal reflects our ongoing dedication to improving our entertainment offerings with premium content.” For Tom Horn, this agreement strengthens its footprint in South Africa, following its initial market entry via a partnership with Aardvark Technologies in February 2025, and supports the firm’s broader international growth strategy. Ondrej Lapides, CEO of Tom Horn Gaming, remarked: “We are pleased to grow our relationship with Hollywoodbets and introduce our games to the South African market. “Securing full regulatory compliance for this region was a significant undertaking for our team, so it is very satisfying to see our games live with such a prominent and well-regarded operator. Hollywoodbets has established a stellar reputation and a loyal player base, and we are certain our content will be well-received by their users.” Tax debate continues Mirroring trends seen in many other African nations, South Africa has experienced a significant rise in the popularity of online betting and gaming in recent years. In response, South Africa’s National Treasury has proposed an additional 20% tax on gross gambling revenue from online operations, which would be applied in addition to existing provincial tax rates on all gambling activities. With provincial rates currently ranging from 6% to 9%, the total effective tax burden would reach between 26% and 29% if the proposal is enacted. Data from the National Gambling Board indicates that R1.5trn (£66bn) was wagered during the 2024 financial year, with gambling participation rates climbing from 30.6% to 65.7% between 2017 and 2023. While the proposed tax is estimated to generate R10bn (£456.1m) annually, the Ministry of Finance has stressed that the primary objective is to address potential social issues stemming from the growth of online gaming. The public consultation period for the proposal concluded on 27 February, and industry stakeholders are currently waiting for a decision from South African legislators regarding the potential implementation of the new tax. 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.

2026-04-10

GamCare to narrow the gap between harm and help using OHID funds

(AsiaGameHub) -   GamCare anticipates that the provisional grant of over £4m from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) VCSE Gambling Harms Prevention and Resilience Fund will enable the charity to ‘bridge the divide between harm and assistance for thousands’. With this funding, slated for the 2026-2028 period, the charity plans to launch two specific initiatives: a community outreach project and specialized assistance for individuals impacted by the gambling habits of others. Pending final confirmation, both services are scheduled to commence in April 2026. Backed by the prevention component of the statutory gambling operator levy, OHID has recently distributed £25.4m among 33 voluntary, community, and social enterprise groups that offer gambling harm support throughout England. Victoria Corbishley, CEO of GamCare, stated: “Once finalized, this provisional funding will assist us in narrowing the gap between harm and help for thousands of individuals throughout England. “Whether an individual is personally struggling or seeking to assist a family member, they are entitled to receive prompt, empathetic, and expert care.” GamCare’s planned use of OHID funds The community outreach initiative will deploy dedicated professionals across London, the South East, the East Midlands, and Yorkshire and the Humber, with a primary focus on engaging diverse and marginalized populations through collaborations with grassroots and specialist providers. GamCare explained that these outreach staff will ‘conduct awareness campaigns, structured early-intervention dialogues, and referral assistance, all aimed at connecting with individuals at the earliest opportunity’. Furthermore, individuals with personal experience within these communities will be hired and trained to foster sustainable local support networks. The national program for those affected by others' gambling seeks to assist the estimated four million people in England who may be dealing with the repercussions of someone else’s gambling without necessarily recognizing the root cause. Assistance will be delivered through professional training, peer support groups, and digital resources. The initiative aims to shorten the path from harm to recovery by providing customized, expert support, particularly for underserved communities. GamCare expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with other grant recipients to establish a unified approach to addressing gambling harm across England. This effort includes coordination with local councils, following the recent distribution of £12m to metropolitan boroughs, unitary authorities, London boroughs, and county councils. “Approximately one out of every seven calls to the GamCare National Gambling Helpline originates from someone impacted by another person’s gambling, and we recognize the critical need to reach and assist more people in these circumstances,” Corbishley remarked. “This investment would enable us to achieve that, while also developing the insights and evidence necessary to bolster the sector’s response for the future.” Interested in more updates like this? Visit the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the central hub for all multimedia content from SBC, where our team explores the most significant developments across the iGaming, sports betting, payments, and affiliate sectors. 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.

2026-04-10

Eventus Names Priya Ahlawat as Asia Ambassador

(AsiaGameHub) -   Eventus International's Global Ambassador program has entered a thrilling new phase, gaining significant momentum as its search throughout Europe and Asia advances. After naming Margarita Cruz as Americas Ambassador and Geoffrey Muindi MCIM as Africa Ambassador, the team has dedicated recent months to collaborating with industry leaders to identify the ideal individuals to finalize this worldwide structure. This pursuit led Eventus to the 7th Annual SPiCE South Asia event, which took place from March 23 to 26, 2026, at the Shangri-La Colombo in Sri Lanka. It was through substantive discussions and genuine regional interaction at this forum that the subsequent development organically emerged. From Search to Selection in Asia During these conversations, it was evident that Asia required more than a mere representative. The region needed an individual with a deep comprehension of both the creative and business facets of the sector, capable of confidently managing the market's rapid pace and intricacies. We are thrilled to announce Priya Ahlawat as the Asia Ambassador for Eventus. Priya Ahlawat is the Founder of Jumping Play Studio and the Managing Director of Epic88 India, offering more than 15 years of practical expertise in gaming, leadership, and studio management. She has established a studio from scratch and guided teams within the demanding context of dynamic, high-expansion settings. Her key asset is her skill in harmonizing creative vision with commercial results, while simultaneously constructing teams that are both expandable and enduring. Beyond her professional role, Priya possesses an unmistakable vibrancy. Be it directing a team or enjoying the dance floor, she commands attention, energizing any space she enters with a demeanor that exudes both assurance and genuineness. Strengthening a Global Vision The Global Ambassador program was established to foster Eventus's expansion in crucial markets and to unite professionals across the industry spectrum, including regulators, operators, suppliers, investors, and technology partners. As the gaming industry progresses, Eventus International is committed to facilitating platforms for significant conversation, supported by data, technology, and progressive leadership. With ambassadors now representing the Americas, Africa, and Asia, the network is growing more robust, interconnected, and optimally equipped to foster cross-border cooperation. Leadership That Matters Priya's selection underscores the core purpose of this initiative. It goes beyond securing regional spokespeople to partnering with professionals who grasp market development dynamics and the requirements for responsible growth. Her background in both operational and creative execution, combined with her talent for forming and directing effective teams, renders her perfectly suited for this position. Looking Ahead With three ambassadors now appointed, Eventus is nearing the finish line for its global roster, with the European ambassador to be revealed shortly. The mission moves forward, driven by unwavering ambition. The assembly continues. 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.

2026-04-10

Suspected Chinese casino boss detained in Thailand

(AsiaGameHub) -   A Chinese citizen suspected of connections to 239 illicit gambling sites has been apprehended in Thailand, after using a Saint Kitts and Nevis passport to avoid attention. According to local publication The Thaiger, Bei Minsi, aged 32, was arrested in the Pattaya area by Thailand's Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) based on information from the Chinese embassy. Although born in China, Minsi obtained citizenship from Saint Kitts and Nevis via its investment migration scheme, a route also taken by other individuals associated with Chinese illegal gambling rings. A recent probe by the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCRP) and The Times identified Su Jiangbo as the fugitive whose assets were seized by the UK Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) using an Unexplained Wealth Order. Jiangbo employed his St. Kitts and Nevis golden passport to buy London real estate and is now required to justify the origin of the purchase funds to UK officials. Minsi is alleged to have participated in an unlawful gambling operation with over 330,000 Chinese users, generating revenue of 13 billion baht (£300.9m). Authorities state he used his second passport to travel to Thailand undetected. Investigative findings connect Minsi to She Zhijiang, who was likewise detained in Thailand and later sent back to China to answer charges concerning illegal gambling. Zhijiang leads the Yatai International Holdings Group, the firm responsible for developing the Shwe Kokko Special Economic Zone in Myanmar. This border city with Thailand is known as a centre for scam operations. Zhijiang has previously faced sanctions from UK and US authorities over suspected criminal deeds and connections to human trafficking. Thai reports indicate officials are now arranging for Minsi's deportation to China to confront the allegations legally. The Chinese government has intensified efforts to prosecute those running illegal casino and scam schemes in Southeast Asia, which are more frequently preying on Chinese citizens. In January, China obtained the extradition of Chen Zhi, a Cambodian-arrested tycoon of Chinese origin accused of operating a massive fraud network. Zhi established the Prince Holding Group, a Cambodian-based conglomerate worth billions of pounds. UK and US officials have accused the group of building casinos and complexes to run scams worth billions of dollars, employing forced labour. 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.

2026-04-10

Is high street gambling expansion overlooked? – OHID’s £12m council funding revealed

(AsiaGameHub) -   As the UK’s safer gambling landscape continues to evolve, the Office of Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) has distributed significant grants to local authorities through its gambling harms prevention fund, with Birmingham receiving the largest allocation of £332,769. London’s local authorities also received substantial support as the funding methodology was disclosed, with 50% of the distribution based on population size and the other 50% determined by the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD). In total, a £12 million fund was shared among County councils, Unitary authorities, Metropolitan boroughs, and London boroughs. Other major recipients included Essex (£289,842), Lancashire (£275,649), Hampshire (£234,867), Manchester (£167,338), and Bradford (£154,748). While political debates and campaigning regarding high street gambling have persisted into 2026, the concentration of gambling venues in specific areas appears not to have been a factor in the funding allocation process. Middlesbrough, which consistently ranks among the areas with the highest density of gambling establishments—from bookmakers to Adult Gaming Centres—was allocated only £45,312 from the grant. Similarly, Luton and Blackpool also host a high concentration of gambling venues, yet their respective councils received just £57,611 and £44,159. The funding for Blackpool is particularly notable given its high volume of casinos and gaming centers, often being characterized as a destination for gambling tourism. Does this data suggest a potential weakness in the funding criteria? The OHID has admitted that there is currently insufficient evidence to develop a formula that perfectly accounts for the regional variations in gambling-related harm, and it has expressed an intention to refine the allocation model. These funding decisions also accelerate the shift toward a public health-oriented approach to safer gambling, further distancing official strategy from industry-led initiatives in the UK. The ten councils receiving the highest funding were: Birmingham — £332,769 Kent — £326,912 Essex — £289,842 Lancashire — £275,649 Hampshire — £234,867 Hertfordshire — £201,954 Norfolk — £189,672 Surrey — £187,149 Leeds — £182,116 Manchester — £167,338 While the list of top-funded authorities is dominated by large counties, the absence of London councils is misleading, as their funding is spread across a wide variety of individual boroughs. The top ten funded councils in London were: Newham — £93,820 Ealing — £86,487 Brent — £85,877 Croydon — £85,220 Enfield — £79,420 Barnet — £78,507 Tower Hamlets — £81,537 Greenwich — £63,731 Hillingdon — £65,585 Hounslow — £65,563 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.

2026-04-10

Unibet Under Fire in Netherlands for Customer Due Diligence Failings

(AsiaGameHub) -   Unibet has faced criticism in the Netherlands for breaching the nation’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act (Wwft). Optdeck Service Limited, the entity operating the FDJ United brand in the Dutch market, has received an AML/CFT directive from the Netherlands’ gaming authority Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) following an investigation that found customer due diligence was ‘not being performed sufficiently’. The KSA noted that Unibet’s transaction monitoring and control measures do not align well with its policy in practice, and the operator must adjust its policy to make player and transaction monitoring more effective. Specifically, the regulator highlighted that policy adjustments are needed for financial thresholds. Via the directive, the KSA has ordered Unibet to cease its various violations. However, the regulator pointed out that the operator had ‘a cooperative attitude and proactively worked on a remediation plan’, with some violations stopped during the investigation. The KSA will conduct a follow-up inspection once the term expires. According to the regulator’s published documents, the term’s expiration date was extended in October last year. Unibet must adjust its financial thresholds to be more effective by 17 November 2025. Continuous monitoring of business relationships and client transactions must be improved by 14 April 2026. iGaming Expert has contacted Unibet to request comment on the AML/CFT directive it received from the KSA. Unibet’s recent Dutch duty-of-care fine In December last year, the KSA imposed a €4m fine on Unibet for failing to comply with duty-of-care responsibilities between 14 July 2022 and 1 July 2024. The regulator’s investigation into player files uncovered various duty-of-care violations, including allowing daily deposits of thousands of euros without intervention when signs of excessive gambling were present, and requesting income information weeks later— even after substantial losses occurred. Interventions selected were also ‘far too light’, such as easily dismissible pop-up windows, and during financial checks, non-permitted income streams (like company accounts) were included. At the time, Unibet told iGaming Expert that it ‘could have acted sooner’ in some duty-of-care cases but contested some of the investigation’s conclusions, stating that the rules during the period of the failings ‘were less specific than they are now’. In its defence against the sanctions, Unibet has challenged the KSA over the clarity of Dutch iGaming regulations. A spokesperson for FDJ United told iGaming Expert at the time: “Unibet takes this matter and its duty of care to provide a safe gaming environment at all times very seriously. We acknowledge that, with the knowledge we have now, we could have acted sooner in the case of some of the players investigated. At the same time, we do not agree with some of the conclusions. “The decision relates to the period June 2022–July 2024, when the rules were less specific than they are now. We applied those rules to the best of our knowledge. In its decision, the KSA applies a stricter interpretation than what was stated in the rules at the time. The legislation and regulations have since been tightened and, since October 2024, there has been a clearer framework for gambling limits. “Since September 2024, we have been working with a new risk detection system that identifies risky gambling behaviour more quickly and leads to stricter interventions. We are also taking additional measures to protect players. The issues referred to by the KSA are no longer possible on our platform.” Looking for more stories like this? Check out the new SBC Media YouTube Channel— the new home for all multimedia content at SBC— where our team deep-dives into the biggest stories across the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate, and payments industries. 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.

2026-04-10

AffPapa to Organize a Running Club at AffPapa Conference Madrid

(AsiaGameHub) -   AffPapa is launching the Running Club, a new pre-conference event aimed at invigorating attendees of AffPapa Conference Madrid and fostering new networking opportunities. In partnership with The Walking Spread and Hybrid Interaction, this morning run offers participants a chance to connect in an informal setting before the official conference sessions commence. Led by Shahar Attias, the run is scheduled for May 18, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, with a starting point at Novotel Madrid Center and concluding at Religion Coffee Shop. The route has been thoughtfully designed to provide an enjoyable exploration of Madrid and encourage casual connections through conversation. Levon Nikoghosyan, Founder & CEO of AffPapa, commented: Our intention was to introduce an energizing and interactive element prior to the main conference. The morning run provides attendees with an opportunity to begin their day actively, experience Madrid, and connect with peers in a relaxed atmosphere. It serves as the ideal commencement to the busy schedule of AffPapa Conference Madrid. Designed to complement the formal conference sessions, the morning run is part of AffPapa’s broader array of interactive side events, which include: A Padel tournament, powered by Bazoom A guided tour of the Santiago Bernabéu and Real Madrid Museum, powered by JoinAff To sign up for the running club and reserve your place, please complete the registration form. About the AffPapa Conference Madrid AffPapa Conference Madrid will take place from May 18–20 at Novotel Madrid Center. This event, AffPapa’s largest affiliate-led conference to date, is expected to draw over 1,500 attendees, comprising 40% affiliates, 40% operators, and 20% B2B providers. The two primary conference days will feature speed-dating networking sessions, panel discussions offering practical insights, an AI workshop conducted by createIT, and networking drinks following each day’s proceedings, among other activities. The complete agenda is continuously updated on the official AffPapa Conference Madrid website, where interested parties can also register as attendees and explore sponsorship opportunities. 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.

2026-04-10

South African Regulator Introduces Online Verification Platform for Legal Gambling Operators

(AsiaGameHub) -   To better educate and protect players about legal and regulated gambling activities in South Africa, the National Gambling Board (NGB) launched a new online verification portal on Wednesday in partnership with all South African gambling operators that hold valid licenses under South African gambling laws. As part of an ongoing initiative to tackle illegal and unauthorised gambling, the NGB’s goal is to give players a way to confirm whether an operator is authorised and regulated to operate legally within South Africa. The verification portal was developed jointly by the NGB and provincial licensing authorities (PLAs), and provides a searchable register of all legally licensed land-based and online gambling operators in South Africa. Acting CEO of the NGB, Lungile Dukwana, stated: This platform is a critical step in protecting South Africans from the risks posed by illegal gambling. It provides the public with a trusted resource to verify licensed gambling operators, ensures that those who choose to gamble can do so in a safe, regulated environment, and strengthens oversight and accountability within the gambling industry. According to the NGB, in FY 2024/25, South African players wagered a total of R1.5 trillion (approximately US$89-billion) across all types of legal gambling, marking a 31.3% increase compared to FY 2023/24. In addition, the rapid growth of cross-border online gambling and offshore betting sites that target South African players without proper South African authorization has made it difficult for local regulators to keep up with the pace of regulatory change. Regulatory challenges for South African regulators stemming from illegal and unlicensed offshore and online gambling operators continue to be a serious impediment to the country’s regulated gambling marketplace. The South African Bookmakers Association (SABA) recently reported that 62% of total online gambling activity by South African players takes place on unlicensed gambling sites. The NGB’s verification portal aims to help players gain a better understanding of South Africa’s legal and regulated gambling industry, while encouraging players to verify an operator’s legitimacy and legality before placing any bets. 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.

2026-04-10

Q1 2026: Betsson Shares Decline Amid Weak CEECA Performance

(AsiaGameHub) -   Betsson’s shares fell sharply following the release of its preliminary Q1 2026 results, at one point declining more than 20% before slightly bouncing back. As of April 9, the stock trades at SEK90.10, down 14.4% from the previous closing price of SEK104.80. Betsson anticipates Q1 revenue will hit €285 million, representing a 3% fall from €294 million in the corresponding period last year. Profitability declined more steeply: EBIT is forecast at €34 million, versus €64 million in Q1 2025. Regional results were mixed, with the biggest slump occurring in the Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia (CEECA) region. Revenue here dropped 21% year-over-year, going from €122 million to €96 million. Even with this decline, CEECA still stands as Betsson’s top revenue-producing region. That said, robust growth in Latin America is narrowing the gap—revenue there increased 24% to €93 million. This weaker performance continues a trend seen in Q4 2025, where total revenue dipped slightly year-on-year and CEECA revenue decreased by 9%. Market pressures could be tied to regulatory changes in Turkey, where President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has adopted a firm position against unlicensed online gambling—calling it potentially “more harmful than terrorism” and vowing to eradicate it. It’s thought that Betsson has exposure to the Turkish market via a B2B deal, which might be a factor in the downturn. The results also mirror a change in Betsson’s revenue composition. CEO Pontus Lindwall had earlier emphasized a strategic shift toward B2C operations. This is clear in Q1’s numbers: B2B revenue fell substantially from €90 million to €51 million. At the same time, B2C performance demonstrated resilience—casino revenue rose 4%, and sportsbook remained steady. Lindwall pointed out that B2B performance had been “dragged down by reduced revenue from one of our clients,” but added that the partner’s activity levels have stabilized since December. Betsson stated that average daily revenue in Q2 is currently running 9% higher than in the same period last year, providing a glimmer of optimism. But this hasn’t stopped a negative market response. Investors will have to wait until April 24—when the full Q1 interim report is published—to get a clearer picture of the company’s performance and future prospects. 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.

2026-04-10

International Entertainment Corp Clears $113M Debt After DigiPlus Investment

(AsiaGameHub) -   International Entertainment Corp (IEC) has settled US$113 million in debt, utilizing funds from the first issuance of Subscription Notes to DigiPlus Interactive Corp. The company verified the redemption of HK$489 million (US$63 million) in promissory notes and the payment of an additional HK$392 million (US$50 million) in bank loans. These settlements were financed by the initial HK$800 million (US$102.5 million) portion of the Subscription Notes. These Subscription Notes, amounting to HK$1.6 billion (US$205 million) in two tranches, form a component of a wider November agreement. This arrangement will result in DigiPlus obtaining a controlling interest in IEC and its principal property, the recently renamed LaVie Resort & Casino, which encompasses the New Coast Hotel Manila. Following the issuance and conversion of the total note amount, DigiPlus is projected to own a 53.89% share of IEC. IEC considers this deal a significant move to enhance its liquidity and financial health. For its part, DigiPlus seeks to grow its entertainment portfolio by merging a physical casino platform with its digital business. Under a provisional license from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation issued in 2023, IEC is presently converting the New Coast Hotel Manila into a comprehensive integrated resort. The company has pledged a minimum investment of US$1 billion for this development and has already assumed complete operational management of the casino, taking over from PAGCOR. 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.

2026-04-10

Finland considers listing state-owned gambling monopoly Veikkaus on the stock exchange.

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Finnish government has indicated that it may launch a public stock offering for Veikkaus, the state-owned gambling operator. However, several requirements must be met before a public listing can proceed. Reports suggest that Finland is on track to become the first Nordic country to implement a competitive licensing system for online gambling starting in 2027. This transition marks a major shift for Veikkaus, as it will relinquish its exclusive rights to online sports betting and digital slot machines. Despite this, the company will retain its monopoly over lottery games, scratch cards, land-based slot machines, and physical casinos. The possibility of listing the gambling entity on the stock market was brought to light in November, following an interview between Strandberg and local media. A public offering would allow the gambling monopoly to be traded on the Helsinki Exchange, opening the door for private investors to hold shares in the company. As other nations move toward deregulating and selling off their state-run gambling monopolies, Finland appears ready to follow a similar path. 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.

2026-04-10

Evolution Lawsuits Evolution to Involve Playtech in Defamation Case

(AsiaGameHub) -   Evolution is intensifying its legal fight by seeking to add Playtech as a defendant in its existing defamation lawsuit filed in a New Jersey Superior Court. The lawsuit initially named Calcagni & Kanefsky LLP, the law firm that delivered a 2021 report to regulators accusing Evolution of operating in prohibited markets like China, Iran, and Sudan. This report was commissioned following Playtech's hiring of the private intelligence agency Black Cube. Subsequent inquiries by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement and the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board concluded without any punitive measures being taken against Evolution. Evolution stated: It remains deeply disappointing that a direct rival would resort to such extreme measures to engineer a secret campaign aimed at damaging our company and evading fair market competition. We are officially adding Playtech to our legal action because the evidence is unambiguous: Playtech engaged Black Cube to produce and disseminate a defamatory report intended to injure Evolution, all while deceiving the market and its investors about its involvement. Evolution alleges that Playtech, which paid an estimated $2.4 million to Black Cube for the investigation, utilized the resulting report as a component of a broader plan to undermine Evolution's standing in the U.S. market. The revised legal filing now levels accusations at Playtech for trade libel, fraud, and racketeering. Furthermore, Evolution is requesting permission to expand its original complaint to name communications consultant Juda Engelmayer and other parties. Evolution further claims that Playtech's CEO, Mor Weizer, failed to disclose necessary information to the company's shareholders. Evolution added: We have full confidence in our stringent compliance protocols and are certain the facts support our position. We anticipate ensuring Playtech, Black Cube, and all those who assisted them are held responsible for the damage they have inflicted. Playtech has denied the allegations, asserting that its conduct was proper. Playtech said As stated before, Playtech reaffirms its choice to commission the report central to Evolution's allegations and stands by the accuracy of its conclusions. Evolution persists in trying to sidestep proper examination instead of confronting persistent concerns about its own behavior, such as its choice to provide services to operators in both illegal and sanctioned jurisdictions and to aid unlicensed operators in regulated markets. Despite the ongoing legal dispute, Playtech is continuing to grow its North American operations. For 2025, Playtech announced a 71% revenue surge in the United States and Canada compared to the prior year, primarily driven by its partnerships with operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, Hard Rock, and Delaware North. Playtech's projected growth in North America is likely to receive a boost from the expected regulatory approval for online casino gaming in Maine. The company added: Playtech will mount a robust defense against Evolution's accusations and remains committed to acting for the benefit of industry operators, suppliers, regulators, and its shareholders. 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.

2026-04-10

Flutter Launches Betfair Prediction Markets in Beta

(AsiaGameHub) -   Flutter Entertainment has unveiled its Betfair Predictions Betting product in a beta launch. This new Betfair Predictions service will function as an adapted version of the Betfair Exchange platform, tailored specifically for prediction markets. It will operate under the existing Betfair UK Gaming licence, allowing users to place wagers on real-world events across categories such as sports, politics, and entertainment. Differing from conventional betting where a user places a bet on an event's outcome, this system requires users to make a prediction by choosing yes or no and then staking their wager. Utilizing the same system as the current Betfair Exchange is expected to be advantageous for the operator. Betfair reports that its exchange platform is projected to handle £84 billion in betting volume in 2025, a 10% increase from the year before. During the beta period, access to Betfair Predictions will be restricted to a select group of users invited by Betfair to trial the product. The company has indicated that it is "too early to say" what the future development path for the product will be after the beta concludes. This testing phase will gather insights on how UK consumers engage with betting products that utilize prediction-based mechanics. 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.

2026-04-10

Voting Now Open for the AffPapa iGaming Awards 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   AffPapa is thrilled to announce that the voting period for the AffPapa iGaming Awards 2026 has officially commenced, allowing the sector to select this year's victors. Balloting will continue through May 4, with the announcement of winners scheduled for May 20, which coincides with the final day of the AffPapa Conference Madrid. Celebrating its fifth anniversary, the 2026 AffPapa iGaming Awards will adopt the theme "The Test of Time," honoring affiliates, operators, and B2B providers who have consistently elevated industry standards through enduring innovation and performance. To shift the spotlight from organizations to the individuals propelling the sector forward, this edition introduces four new exclusive categories designed to recognize individual achievement and leadership. These categories will open for voting at a later date, with further details to be released soon: Woman Leader of the Year CEO of the Year Affiliate Manager of the Year Best Employer of the Year Levon Nikoghosyan, Founder and CEO of AffPapa, stated: As we enter the voting phase, it is time for the industry to make its choice. The nominees have all put in the effort over the past year, and now it comes down to who the community believes truly delivered. It is always exciting to see how it all plays out! With voting now active, AffPapa encourages all industry professionals to back their preferred candidates. To view the complete list of nominees and cast your vote, please visit the official AffPapa iGaming Awards website, where you can also discover the limited remaining sponsorship opportunities for increased visibility during the ceremony. About AffPapa iGaming Awards The AffPapa iGaming Awards is an annual ceremony established in 2022 to recognize and honor affiliates, operators, and B2B providers who have elevated industry benchmarks through their hard work and innovation throughout the year. These gala awards serve as a tribute to the progressive evolution of the iGaming industry, while also serving as a continuation of AffPapa's core mission of uniting the 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.

2026-04-10

Genius Sports Names Tony Marlow as Chief Marketing Officer

(AsiaGameHub) -   Genius Sports, a global frontrunner in real-time sports data, today announced that Tony Marlow has been appointed Chief Marketing Officer. Marlow will join the executive leadership team to oversee global marketing, communications and brand strategy, as the company continues to expand its role powering the ecosystem that connects the sports, betting, media and advertising sectors. Mark Locke, Chief Executive Officer of Genius Sports, stated: We act as the operating system for sports, with the underlying infrastructure to generate value across every segment of the ecosystem. As the industry grows more integrated across data, media, betting and advertising, our core focus is scaling this platform on a global level. Tony’s appointment reinforces our leadership team and our capacity to deliver on this vision and speed up growth across all parts of the business. Marlow brings deep expertise building fast-growing marketing teams at the intersection of media, technology and advertising. Most recently, he held the role of Chief Marketing Officer at LG Ad Solutions, where he helped position the company as a category leader in the connected TV space. He previously served as CMO at Integral Ad Science and Data Axle, and led B2B marketing operations at Yahoo earlier in his career. Tony Marlow, the newly appointed Chief Marketing Officer of Genius Sports, commented: I’m delighted to join as CMO at such an exciting juncture for the company. The live moment economy is now well established, and the sports sector can now deliver even greater value to both fans and brands by enabling them to engage during the highest-impact, most meaningful moments. This drives value across the entire ecosystem, while also providing a more positive experience for fans. Genius has built the necessary infrastructure to make this possible. Our key opportunity now is to bring these capabilities to market in high-visibility, impactful ways. Marlow will focus on leading the company’s global go-to-market initiatives targeting its core audience groups, including sports leagues and federations, broadcasters and streaming platforms, betting operators, as well as advertisers and consumer brands. His appointment reflects Genius Sports’ ongoing investment in its leadership team as the business expands its footprint across multiple products, partners and markets, and capitalizes on the growing opportunity in the real-time sports data and live moment economy spaces. 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.

2026-04-10

Is Finland getting ready to take Veikkaus public?

(AsiaGameHub) -   Speculation persists that Finland’s government is weighing the sale of shares in state-owned Veikkaus as regulatory reforms near completion. Starting in July 2027, Finland will move away from Veikkaus’s monopoly on betting, online casino, and online bingo services to a competitive licensing framework. This shift has opened up the possibility of Veikkaus being listed on the Finnish stock exchange, a move intended to generate funds for an economy struggling with sluggish growth. But Maija Strandberg, Finland’s Director General of Ownership Steering, told Finnish publication Kauppalehti that a possible initial public offering (IPO) is not expected to happen before the current government’s term ends in April 2027. She said: “You can think of it this way: the market will open in the summer of 2027, and Veikkaus will need to demonstrate that it can compete in that market. Is one year enough for the company to prove this? We would then be at the end of 2028. If we take any action, we are approaching the turn of the decade.” Strandberg added that Finland’s government aims to raise €3 billion in revenue to support an investment program, which includes selling stakes in publicly traded companies. Previously, the state generated €1.94 billion by listing Posti Oyj, the country’s postal service, on the Nasdaq Helsinki Stock Exchange in October 2025. Beyond financial gains, industry experts have noted that taking Veikkaus public would benefit Finland’s gaming sector by decoupling the organization from its dual role of regulating the market and operating within it. During a recent SBC webinar, Antti Koivula, Chief Compliance Officer at Hippos ATG, stated that “there is no strategic value for the state to own gambling operators; instead, it should stay on the regulatory side.” “Mixing the roles of market operator and regulator at the same time is not advisable—it’s a recipe for trouble,” he further commented. Lessons from FDJ? Across Europe, moving away from monopolies has resulted in state-owned operators transitioning into publicly listed companies. Nine years after France opened its online sports betting and poker markets to new licensees in 2010, the state-owned Française des Jeux—now rebranded as FDJ United—was listed on Euronext Paris, with 20% of the company acquired by shareholders. Jari Vähänen, Co-Founder and Partner at The Finnish Gambling Consultants, suggested that Finland could follow a similar route. However, he pointed out that Veikkaus’s diverse business segments might make the process more complex. Veikkaus’s portfolio includes a technology firm, a B2B service provider, Fennica Gaming (a B2B provider for global markets), and the operating arm that will compete in the new multi-licensed market. He said: “If the entire Veikkaus group were listed, there would be at least four separate private entities competing against other firms—but these entities would have different business narratives than the exclusive license-holding Veikkaus, so I’m not sure how that would work.” Nevertheless, he observed that privatizing Veikkaus’s multi-licensed division would be “relatively straightforward.” The application period for prospective new entrants opened in March, and law firm Nordic Legal reports that between 10 and 20 companies have expressed interest in joining the market. Although the market will open up for certain verticals, Veikkaus will keep exclusive control over Lotto, Eurojackpot, and physical slot machines and casinos. 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.

2026-04-09

Portugal reveals a newly – designed self – exclusion platform

(AsiaGameHub) -   Portugal’s gambling regulator is looking to simplify the self-exclusion process as it undertakes a system revamp and introduces a new user experience. Unveiled by the Gaming Regulation and Inspection Service (SRIJ) on April 8 (yesterday), both players and non-players can use the platform to self-exclude from all licensed online gambling operators in Portugal. According to the regulator, the new system features a ‘simpler and more intuitive interface’ to enable faster and more efficient self-exclusion requests, and it has also been optimized for mobile devices. SRIJ stated: “With this new platform, SRIJ reinforces the quality of its digital services and the effectiveness of the gambling control mechanisms available to players.” Players can self-exclude for a specific period—with a minimum of three months—or indefinitely. Since regulation began in 2015, Portugal’s gaming market has grown to include 17 licensed operators. In Q4 2025, the market generated €337.6 million, a 4.5% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Responsible gaming is a key pillar of any regulated market, and the enhancement of Portugal’s self-exclusion service advances these goals. However, Miguel Luis, Head of Compliance at Portuguese operator Lebull, emphasized that the jurisdiction must learn from other markets and ensure measures do not create enough friction to push players to the black market. Speaking to iGaming Expert, he commented: “The biggest challenge is to maintain an engaging and frictionless experience while protecting the player from risky behaviour. The most common responsible gaming measures, such as wager, deposit or loss limits, are often seen by players as an ‘interference’ in their leisure time.” “I believe the right balance involves investing in educational UX/UI, with elements that resonate with the players, creating experiences where RG tools are presented not as barriers, but as elements of value to the user, and especially where these can be communicated as something good and at the reach of the player, not just as something ‘there’, or unilaterally imposed on the player.” Luis also noted that an effective responsible gambling regime requires ‘true cross-sector’ collaboration between stakeholders. 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.

2026-04-09

Playtech labels Evolution lawsuit as ‘baseless and without merit’

(AsiaGameHub) -   Playtech has moved quickly to respond to recent developments in its ongoing legal dispute with Evolution.  The company said it will ‘defend itself vigorously’ against Evolution’s U.S. defamation lawsuit— which accuses Playtech of orchestrating a defamatory smear campaign against the company— and described the allegation as ‘baseless and without merit’. Playtech’s statement was issued after Evolution named the supplier as a defendant alongside Calcagni & Kanefsky LLP and Black Cube, and also added Juda Engelmayer and other individuals to the list of defendants. Playtech to ‘defend itself vigorously’ against Evolution Playtech has been anticipating this since October of last year, when Evolution held the supplier responsible for commissioning Black Cube to investigate Evolution’s operations in prohibited and sanctioned markets, as well as its supply to unlicensed operators in regulated markets. Playtech stated: “As previously announced, Playtech stands by both the decision to commission the report at the centre of Evolution’s claims, and the validity of its findings.  “Evolution continues to seek to avoid legitimate scrutiny rather than addressing longstanding questions about its own conduct, including its decision to supply operators in both illegal and sanctioned markets and to support unlicensed operators in regulated markets. “Playtech welcomes court and regulatory examination of the report and its findings and, importantly, the opportunity to be involved in the discovery process including to question Evolution’s employees, executives and officers in court.  “The company is very confident based on evidence it has, including recent additional evidence, that these proceedings will confirm the credibility and legitimacy of the report and the importance of the issues it seeks to address. “Playtech will defend itself vigorously against Evolution’s claims and will continue to act in the best interests of industry operators, suppliers and regulators as well as its shareholders.” Evolution Names Playtech as a Defendant Earlier today, Evolution issued a statement claiming Playtech orchestrated a defamatory smear campaign against it to enter the North American market and eliminate competitors. The legal filing also accuses Playtech of ‘trade libel, fraud and racketeering, as well as withholding information about its conduct from shareholders— even though Playtech Chief Executive Officer Mor Weizer actively participated in preparing and spreading the defamatory report’. Evolution noted: “We are formally naming Playtech in our lawsuit because the facts are clear: Playtech hired Black Cube to create and publicise a defamatory report designed to harm Evolution, all while misleading the market and lying to investors about its role.  “For nearly four years, Playtech spent millions of dollars in legal fees to conceal its involvement in this smear campaign and avoid accountability.” Evolution continued: “We are confident in our rigorous compliance policies and practices, and that the facts in this case are on our side. We look forward to holding Playtech, Black Cube, and all their accomplices accountable for the harm they have caused.” Looking for more stories like this? Check out the new SBC Media YouTube Channel— SBC’s new home for all multimedia content— where our team takes deep dives into the top stories from the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate and payments sectors. 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.

2026-04-09