Philippines Declares POGO-Free Status Following Crackdown on Violence

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Department of Justice has confirmed that all Philippine offshore gaming operator hubs have ceased operations in the Philippines, following a government crackdown that effectively dismantled the sector. Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida informed reporters that the extensive enforcement campaign resulted in the closure of 80% of previously active hubs within one month of their expiration date. He stated unequivocally that there are no legally sanctioned POGOs currently operating within the country, nor are there any operating illegally. He further reiterated the government's official position that no POGO operations will be permitted in the Philippines. Despite the official shutdown of the sector, the Department of Justice has indicated that monitoring of these operations will continue. The DOJ will maintain close surveillance and will intervene if any illegal activity is discovered or reported, as anticipated. The Department of Justice will persist in its active efforts to ensure that any group choosing to operate outside the law will be reported, and appropriate measures will be taken against them. While the DOJ has declared the country a POGO-free zone, it seeks to alleviate any doubts about its commitment to addressing the issue. The continuation of monitoring activities signals that the government will not tolerate a return to unauthorized POGO-related activities in the wake of this closure. 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.

2026-04-06

India blocks 8,376 websites associated with online betting and gambling

(AsiaGameHub) -   India has announced the blocking of a further 8,376 gambling and gaming websites, as offshore platforms remain a persistent issue for the nation. Following the implementation of the 2025 Online Gaming Act, over 4,800 of these targeted URLs have been taken down. This legislation prohibits online gambling for money and is now a central component of the government's strategy to fight online betting and gambling. A survey by CUTS International in the Delhi NCR region last December revealed that the proportion of users on offshore sites rose from 68.3% before the ban to 82% after it, marking a 20.1% overall increase. The data further showed daily users of these platforms jumped from 3.4% of users pre-ban to 42.3% post-ban. Beyond more frequent access, users are also spending more time on these sites and increasing their monthly expenditures. Individuals have circumvented Indian legal restrictions using mirror domains and local payment methods such as UPI. Another CUTS International survey in Tamil Nadu in early January found that engagement with offshore gambling sites there has grown by 15.2% since the ban, indicating their continued prevalence across many states despite a stricter legal framework. The scale of the offshore gambling industry was highlighted during a MediaNama panel on the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act (2025) in September 2025. Dhruv Garg, a Partner at IGAP, noted the industry's total value is approximately $20 billion, stressing that this capital is leaving the country untaxed. He estimated the resulting government tax loss at over $4 billion, which exceeds the revenue generated by India's legal gambling sector. 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.

2026-04-06

Romanian court confirms ONJN’s decision to blacklist Polymarket

(AsiaGameHub) -   A Romanian court has issued a ruling upholding the Romanian Gambling Office’s decision to keep Polymarket on its national blacklist. The court rejected Polymarket’s request to suspend an earlier ONJN ruling, which found the platform was operating without a valid license. ONJN President Vlad Cristian Soare celebrated the result in a LinkedIn post, stating: Today we secured our first major win in the Polymarket case. There’s been a lot of speculation around this decision. In truth, the issue was never just about Polymarket—and still isn’t. The real goal is to protect the legal framework governing gambling and close a dangerous loophole: rebranding betting under the seemingly innocent label of ‘prediction platform’. According to the ONJN, the court’s ruling reinforces the Gambling Office’s authority and strengthens its legitimacy to take action against Polymarket. Romania was one of the first jurisdictions to blacklist the platform in October 2025. Since Romania blacklisted Polymarket, the platform has also been banned by several other European jurisdictions, including Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland, Hungary, Ukraine, Switzerland, France, Portugal, Germany, and Italy. Polymarket first faced issues with the ONJN after the office cited an “exploited surge” in activity during Romania’s 2025 election period. Total trading on Pepsin exceeded $600 million during the presidential election and $15 million from Bucharest’s local elections. The Office stated at the time: Allowing counterparty betting to be reclassified as trading would set a reckless precedent. The ONJN determined that Polymarket acts as a counterparty betting provider—even though it presents itself as a prediction market—because it lets customers wager on event outcomes and charges them a commission for doing so. Based on this finding, the ONJN concluded Polymarket is subject to existing gambling laws. Soare emphasized this stance, adding: Whether you bet in lei or crypto, if you’re putting money on a future outcome in a counterparty bet scenario, it’s gambling that requires a license. The ONJN will not allow blockchain to become a shield for illegal gambling. 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.

2026-04-06

Cambodia’s dozen casinos tied to online scams and human rights abuses

(AsiaGameHub) -   Amnesty International has reported that a dozen casinos in Cambodia are currently licensed to run online scam operations, with serious ongoing human rights implications. Despite the Cambodian government's claims of a cybercrime crackdown, the report states that "at least a dozen casinos" have been "directly linked to scamming and abuse" involving individuals who are "tortured, forced into labour, used for child labour, or trafficked for sex." The report specifically names three casinos allegedly operated by Kok An, who is reported to have strong ties to former government officials. In business records, he is listed as having worked for the Anco Group, an umbrella corporation for many Cambodian businesses. Using data from the commercial gambling regulator, the Commercial Gambling Management Commission, the report shows that all casino operators run their facilities through on-site offices and that twelve casinos have supplied evidence of documented abuse. Authorities in Cambodia have reported arresting nearly a thousand people as part of an anti-cyber-crime initiative initially focused on "pig-butchering" scams. Additionally, close to 190 casino-linked scam operations have been closed, and gaming licenses have been revoked from some major firms, including Prince Group Holdings. Cambodian regulators state these measures demonstrate the government's commitment to "enforce stronger regulation of commercial gaming and to guarantee legal operations." Montse Ferrer, Co-Regional Director at Amnesty International, stated the research "clearly links Cambodia's licensed casinos to its scamming compounds." Ferrer added that while officials claim to be dismantling the industry, "the evidence indicates it is concurrently approving plans for casino properties where abusive scam compounds operate." 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.

2026-04-06

Jeju Dream Tower Casino Reports March Recovery, Achieving 40% Q1 Revenue Growth

(AsiaGameHub) -   Lotte Tour Development announced a strong recovery for Jeju Dream Tower in March, with casino sales climbing 24.3% year-over-year and 23.8% month-over-month, reaching KRW40.4 billion (US$26.7 million). This resurgence was supported by improved performance across both table games and slot machines, following a period of significantly lower activity in the preceding month. Table Game Revenue saw a 24.0% increase, totaling KRW38.4 billion (US$25.4 million), while Machine Revenue advanced by 30.3% to KRW2.05 billion (US$1.35 million). Hotel Revenue also experienced substantial growth in March, rising 43.3% from the previous year to KRW5.88 billion (US$3.88 million). Casino Visitation reached 53,587 in March, marking its highest level since October, and Table Drop grew by 19.6% to KRW188.9 billion. These increases in visitation and gaming activity indicate a positive outlook for Jeju Dream Tower, anticipating continued growth into the second quarter of 2023. For the first quarter of 2026, Casino Revenue saw a 40.3% year-over-year increase, accumulating KRW118.6 billion (US$78.4 million). Table Games revenues were the primary driver of this surge, increasing by 41.5% to KRW112.9 billion (US$74.6 million), while Machine Sales rose by 19.6% to KRW5.67 billion (US$3.75 million). Hotel Revenue also improved by 27.9% compared to 2022 figures, reaching KRW18.0 billion (US$11.9 million). With positive trends observed in Visitation, Table Drop, and revenues across both gaming and hospitality sectors, Jeju Dream Tower concludes the First Quarter with renewed momentum. The robust March results effectively counteracted February’s slower performance and have strengthened the resort’s position for a successful Second Quarter. 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.

2026-04-03

Belgium’s gambling market registered its first decline since 2024

(AsiaGameHub) -   Belgium's regulated gambling market saw its first year-on-year downturn in 2024 since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Official figures for total Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) show a 4.86% drop compared to the previous year, with overall revenue declining from €1.69 billion in 2023 to €1.61 billion in 2024. This significant contraction was largely driven by a poor performance in the land-based sector, coupled with a modest decline in the online segment; both sectors continue to represent the bulk of the market. Online GGR fell by 2.7% year-over-year, from €946.7 million (56.7%) to €919.1 million (57.1%), while land-based revenue saw a more pronounced decrease of 7.59%. All gambling verticals witnessed fluctuations this year relative to the last. The casino sector was a standout performer, posting a 7.32% increase to reach total revenue of €638.45 million—with online channels accounting for roughly 75% of that figure. Conversely, revenue from arcade licensing fell from €437.2 million (8.94%) to €384.75 million (11.95%), mainly due to a sharp 23.8% plunge in online income, despite a minor uptick in offline revenue. Low-stakes gaming revenue fell by another €222 million, a decrease of 21.71%, and café bingo revenue dropped by 24.7%. Sports betting GGR has been in a consistent year-on-year decline since 2020, falling from €389.94 million (10.4%) to €364.3 million (6.59%). For instance, offline sports betting revenue decreased by 13.58% compared to the previous year, while the online segment saw a much smaller decline of 2.11%. The retail betting sector continues to face challenges, with the number of licensed shops dropping by over 18% since 2008—from 535 licensed by the Belgian Gaming Commission to 408 this year. This has contributed to an overall decline of nearly 18% in land-based sports betting revenue. While gambling still constitutes the majority of total revenues, this trend intensified during the pandemic. However, regulators have voiced concerns about a potential shift to illicit or illegal gambling platforms and advocate for more research into illegal gambling activities. 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.

2026-04-03

River Tech on verge of insolvency after €51m in French accounts are frozen

(AsiaGameHub) -   Malta-based B2B tech firm River Tech is reported to have made roughly 30 staff redundant following a French court's order to freeze a subsidiary's bank account, severely hampering its business activities. Reports state that some employees allege they are still awaiting their final pay. The St Julian's-headquartered company confirmed it issued redundancy notices to workers throughout all its entities, encompassing the senior leadership team, CEO, and CFO. On March 13th, an investigative judge at the Paris Court mandated the freezing of the firm's operational bank account, holding up to €51.2 million. On March 20th, River Tech's subsidiary, with board approval, voted to commence winding up and dissolution procedures in accordance with Maltese law. The company stated that the account freeze has substantially prevented the subsidiary from meeting its financial duties. The board of River Tech adopted a parallel resolution for the parent company and initiated legal proceedings in a Maltese court to wind up and dissolve the parent entity. Upon appointment, the liquidator for both the parent and subsidiary will oversee the winding-up process and decide on creditor repayments, adhering to the legal payment hierarchy. Additionally, the company has sought the nomination of a provisional administrator to take on temporary management responsibilities pending the case's final outcome. River Tech stated that the account freezing is connected to a matter brought forward by France's Central Racing and Gaming Service, a division of the National Police, adding that it pertains to a criminal probe involving a former client of River Tech. 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.

2026-04-03

22Bet Partners Named Signature Sponsor for AffPapa iGaming Awards

(AsiaGameHub) -   AffPapa has announced 22Bet Partners as the Signature Sponsor for the AffPapa iGaming Awards 2026. 22Bet Partners operates an affiliate program specializing in gambling, betting, and crypto-casino offerings, serving over 150 markets with both traditional and cryptocurrency brands. The program is recognized for its customized deals (CPA, RS, hybrid), dedicated local affiliate teams, and efficient, hands-on onboarding process, enabling agreements to be finalized within 24 hours of application. In a statement, 22Bet Partners commented: "We are pleased to participate in the AffPapa iGaming Awards this year," stated 22Bet Partners. "It presents an exceptional chance to showcase excellence within the affiliate community and engage with numerous inspiring partners." Scheduled for May 20, the concluding day of the AffPapa Conference Madrid, the AffPapa iGaming Awards 2026 will be held at the Novotel Madrid Center. This ceremony, serving as the conference's grand finale, will gather affiliates, operators, and B2B providers to honor the industry's leading achievers. Now in its fifth year, this annual industry event acknowledges excellence, innovation, and enduring influence throughout the iGaming ecosystem. The 2026 awards edition will feature the theme "The Test of Time" and introduce four new exclusive categories. Yeva Avagyan, AffPapa's Head of Commercial, remarked: "We are pleased to welcome 22Bet Partners as a Signature Sponsor this year," said Avagyan. "The Awards aim to unite the industry and acknowledge those performing exceptional work, and given their long-standing presence in the sector, it's fitting that our partners are involved." The official registration deadline for the AffPapa iGaming Awards 2026 is March 30, with a brief extension offered until April 3. Affiliates, operators, and B2B providers are encouraged to nominate their brands, including entries for the newly introduced categories. Interested companies and industry professionals can register for the AffPapa iGaming Awards 2026 via the official website. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

2026-04-03

Kalshi’s ‘Gambling’ Trademark Misstep Occurs As Polymarket Finalizes Major Sports Deals

(AsiaGameHub) -   Kalshi is under intense scrutiny over its U.S. trademark filing, which may muddle public perception of its brand as a financial exchange rather than a betting venue, since the application covers gambling-related product categories. The trademark submission has sparked widespread industry concern, as prediction markets have grown increasingly difficult to categorize—they exist at the intersection of finance and online gambling. The issues stem from Kalshi’s attempt to register a “prediction market” trademark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office across both gambling and financial product classes, resulting in a filing that extends beyond its actual business operations. Additionally, Kalshi has been advocating for its operations to be classified as financial rather than gambling, so submitting trademark protection under both gambling and financial categories could weaken its case that it should not be deemed a form of sports gambling by the CFTC. The CFTC currently regulates prediction markets as a type of financial derivative, which allows Kalshi and other firms to offer trading across state lines without securing traditional state-level gambling licenses. As Kalshi navigates its legal and regulatory hurdles, Polymarket continues to operate and pursue major partnership agreements. Most recently, Polymarket entered into a multi-year deal with Major League Baseball (MLB) that is reportedly valued at up to $150 million. Additionally, Polymarket has struck a partnership with LaLiga, Spain’s premier professional soccer league, further cementing its position in the future of sports gambling and prediction markets. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

2026-04-03

Brazil Unveils National Policy to Tackle Sports Betting Match-Fixing

(AsiaGameHub) -   To tackle match-fixing and safeguard the integrity of sporting competitions, Brazil has rolled out a new national framework. This policy was established via Inter Ministerial Ordinance No 1, dated March 25, 2026. The Ministry of Sports, Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of Justice and Public Security will collaborate on this initiative, which is named PNPEMR. This policy will bring enhanced oversight to Brazil's rapidly expanding betting marketplace. Licensed operators are now required to monitor and submit reports of suspicious betting activity to regulators in real time. The framework centers on four core areas: Regulation, Prevention, Monitoring, and Enforcement. This measure is designed to align Brazil with global integrity standards and improve cooperation between involved authorities and relevant industries. The Ministry of Finance will take charge of overseeing adherence to betting regulations, while the Federal Police will lead investigations into sports fraud, including cross-border fraud cases. A dedicated Steering Committee will also be set up to supervise the implementation of this framework, with members drawn from law enforcement, regulatory bodies and licensed operators. The overarching goal of this new national policy is to build a more transparent and secure sports betting environment across Brazil. 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.

2026-04-03

Entain to shut 39 Ladbrokes locations in Ireland following unsuccessful sale negotiations

(AsiaGameHub) -   Following failed efforts to sell its Irish retail portfolio, Entain has announced plans to shut down 39 Ladbrokes betting shops. This move marks the largest contraction of a retail footprint by any business operating in Ireland. The closures, scheduled to be finalized by August 31, 2023, will result in the loss of approximately 226 jobs. Following these cuts, Ladbrokes will continue to operate 66 locations across Ireland, employing roughly 350 people. A Ladbrokes spokesperson stated: We regularly assess our retail portfolio to maintain financial viability and competitiveness. Our current focus is on working closely with our staff throughout the consultation period, prioritizing redeployment opportunities where they exist. Ladbrokes maintains its commitment to the Irish market and to operating a sustainable retail business. Entain’s decision follows the breakdown of talks with Bar One Racing, which had been considering the acquisition of Ladbrokes' entire Irish operation. The spokesperson further commented: Closing these shops in the Republic of Ireland is a difficult decision, driven by ongoing cost challenges, shifting consumer habits, and increased competition from unlicensed operators. These closures coincide with broader industry trends, including recent reports of Evoke shutting down roughly 200 UK retail sites and Flutter Entertainment’s announcement that it will close 57 Paddy Power locations. 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.

2026-04-03

Report slams Meta for profiting from illegal gambling promotion

(AsiaGameHub) -   An investigation commissioned by Flutter has exposed the deceptive strategies of the black market, as the lines between the regulated industry and unlicensed operators grow increasingly blurred.  In an interview with SBC News, former fraudster turned investigator and government advisor Alex Wood— who led the probe— emphasized that ‘the biggest problem is being able to tell a dodgy site apart from a legitimate one’, as players are lured into the trap of using black market platforms.  Wood employed several approaches to uncover the underhand tactics of illegal operators: false responsible gambling information, manipulative marketing, withdrawal issues, and failure to verify customer details.  During his investigation, he warned that social media providers are enabling widespread promotion of black market operators, singling out Meta for criticism.  He told SBC News: “I was at a police event where it was stated that Meta makes more money from crime than any criminal organization in the world— whether it’s romance fraudsters, illegal betting, or dodgy crypto investments.  “They’re earning more by charging to display this content than all influencers combined. And while they’re raking in that money, there’s nothing anyone can do about it.  “Home Office representatives at the event said: ‘We’ll sue Meta’, but they’ll just appeal, keep appealing, and we’ll run out of funds.” Notably, he also revealed that Meta hosts the full betting journey— from onboarding to deposit to loss— within native apps like Instagram on iOS.  He expressed concern that by enabling this process, social media platforms are lending ‘a veneer of trustworthiness and legitimacy’ to ‘deeply harmful’ black market sites.  Wood shared that during his investigation, he found examples where entire transactions occur within Instagram, with no redirection to a third-party site.  “Their name is visible throughout the process, so they have visibility of these transactions and charge a commission on all deposits.” Wood noted that the verified account feature on platforms like Instagram can be seen as giving operators ‘a clean bill of health’ and thus offering ‘tacit endorsement’— which is inappropriate, as the content they post ‘glamourises illegal and unlicensed operators’ that shouldn’t accept UK players.  He also highlighted the presence of young male influencers (some linked to the manosphere) driving their followers to black market operators, often via harmful social media content.  Previously speaking to iGaming Expert, BetBlocker Chief Executive Officer Duncan Garvie expressed concern over ‘a huge problem in UK advertising regulation’ regarding streamers and influencers.  Garvie stated: “Licensed gambling operators would face intense scrutiny for using marketing channels that appeal to younger audiences. But these rules are embedded in UKGC gambling licensing conditions.  “Since influencers aren’t required to be licensed, and unlicensed brands are unrestricted by UKGC edicts, these stakeholders are free to partner in a way that completely undermines the marketing protections the licensing system is meant to deliver.” He added: “This is compounded by influencers directing younger consumers to unlicensed gambling operators. We’re losing our young population to the black market, and once they’re gone, it’s unlikely they’ll return.  “More must be done to require streaming platforms to ensure their content creators market products legally fit for the markets they reach.” Speaking at the Illegal Gambling Prevention Summit, Wood warned that blocking domains isn’t enough—it’s merely ‘squeezing the balloon’—and noted the most effective way to thwart the black market is to stop payment service providers from moving money out of the UK.  This surging threat comes as the regulated market faces an increasingly tough environment, opening the door wider for unlicensed operators to boost exposure and gain a larger market share. Commenting on rising taxation rates and stricter regulations, Wood issued a stark warning to regulators: ‘If you wanted to guarantee the black market’s success, you’re doing everything right’. 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.

2026-04-02

AffPapa Conference Madrid to Feature AI Workshop Led by createIT

(AsiaGameHub) -   A practical AI workshop, powered by createIT, will be held at the AffPapa Conference Madrid on May 20 at 11:00, giving iGaming operators a realistic perspective on applying AI in actual business situations. Bartek Borkowski, CEO & Co-founder of createIT, will lead the session, drawing on more than two decades of expertise in iGaming development and technology. Moving beyond trends and hype, the workshop will concentrate on daily operational choices, helping participants identify where AI offers tangible benefits and where its impact might be limited. Attendees of the workshop will investigate: Areas where AI can truly enhance performance within iGaming operations Situations where deploying AI might not yield a significant return on investment Ways straightforward automation can conserve time without interfering with current workflows Immediately applicable, real-world use cases Adopting a return-on-investment-first strategy, the workshop is designed to deliver practical takeaways—actionable insights that operators can utilize without overhauling their existing systems. Levon Nikoghosyan, CEO of AffPapa, shared in a statement: We’re happy to have createIT running this workshop. At the end of the day, operators don’t need more theory; they need insights they can actually use. It’s always better when sessions are practical and straight to the point. Scheduled for May 18-20 at the Novotel Hotel Madrid, the AffPapa Conference Madrid will provide over 1,500 attendees with a variety of activities focused on intensive affiliate-led networking. The complete agenda features a padel tournament, speed-dating sessions, panel discussions, evening networking drinks, the AffPapa iGaming Awards 2026 ceremony, a closing party with DJ Kryoman, and additional events. You can secure your place at AffPapa's largest affiliate-led conference yet and inquire about sponsorship options on the official AffPapa Conference Madrid website. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

2026-04-02

Lynon Expands Through Partnership with ICONIC21

(AsiaGameHub) -   Lynon has bolstered its aggregation platform through a fresh content partnership with ICONIC21. As part of this collaboration, Lynon’s operator partners will now gain access to ICONIC21’s full collection of slot games, live casino offerings, and virtual titles. Tigran Ayvazyan, Managing Partner at Lynon, stated: “We are thrilled to welcome ICONIC21 onto our aggregation platform. Our goal is to provide operators with the most comprehensive and engaging content currently available across the industry. We believe that combining ICONIC21’s fast-paced product portfolio with our seamless integration capabilities will deliver exceptional results for our partner operators.” Among the newly accessible content is ICONIC21’s Gravity series, including the recently released vertical game show Gravity Wheel, which features dynamic multipliers in every game round to boost player engagement. Alina Mihaela Popa, Chief Commercial Officer at ICONIC21, added: “Partnering with Lynon is a natural fit, as both companies share a commitment to nurturing long-term, value-driven partnerships. Lynon’s ability to bring our products to a wide range of operators is a key pillar of our expansion strategy. “By providing their network with our full range of games, from the fast-paced Gravity Wheel to our latest instant-win titles, we are ensuring that more players can experience the quality and innovation that define ICONIC21.” Why live casino needs game show formats Earlier this year, Popa spoke with iGaming Expert about the need for faster, more intuitive game experiences to capture the attention of modern audiences. She argued that as attention spans continue to shrink, the industry needs “faster, clearer and more decisive games”, such as game show formats. “Fast-paced game shows solve a common problem for players,” Popa explained. “They reduce cognitive load while increasing emotional intensity. Instead of long decision trees or slow rounds, players are given immediate clarity, with straightforward mechanics and clear outcomes—no need to read a guide. You grasp the game on your first try. In a mobile-first environment, this is a critical factor. Games that drag their feet lose players, while direct, simple games keep them engaged.” Want to hear more stories like this? Check out the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the new home of all things multimedia at SBC, where our team deep-dives into the biggest stories from 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.

2026-04-02

NY governor cautions about AI targeting gamblers

(AsiaGameHub) -   New York State Governor Kathy Hochul has introduced a series of proposals aimed at protecting against underage online gambling. Hochul set aside a portion of her 2026 State of the State speech to instruct the New York State Gaming Commission to take suitable measures, noting that mobile sports betting is ‘luring everyone—including our young people—to place bets without fully thinking through the outcomes’. “We require robust regulatory protections to stop individuals under 21 from gambling, prevent artificial intelligence from exploiting gamblers, and mandate sports betting operators to take meaningful steps if any of their customers display signs of gambling-related harm,” she added. In response to this directive, the state’s gaming regulatory body has released proposals that will mandate operators to utilize geolocation tools and put in place age-verification and device registration measures to stop individuals under 21 from downloading gambling apps. Operators will also ask players to submit biometric information when setting up an account to confirm that the app is being used by the individual who originally created the account. Per the National Council on Problem Gambling, nearly two-thirds of U.S. adults stated they gambled before turning 21. Of those who did, 23% placed a sports bet and 21% played online casino-style games. Gaming Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer said: “No other type of gambling has become as ingrained in our awareness as sports betting, and vulnerable children are regularly exposed to this activity. We’ve found extra methods to safeguard our youth, assist those in crisis, and maintain safe, legal, and regulated gaming for all New York residents.” Additionally, the commission aims to address AI usage and has put forward a proposal to ban all licensees from using AI to provide customized promotions or recommended bets. These proposals, along with a distinct set of measures to roll out a three-step protocol for operators to assist at-risk players, have been released by the commission for feedback from relevant stakeholders by May 15. Is iGaming on the horizon for New York? New York’s online sports betting market is among the biggest in the U.S. and is still expanding. In December 2025, players bet more than $2.38 billion, with market leaders FanDuel and DraftKings reporting revenues of $120.1 million and $84.1 million, respectively. Even with this growth, online casinos are still banned. But certain parts of the New York Senate have been advocating for regulated iGaming to come to The Empire State. Following Governor Hochul’s signing of a law banning the operation and promotion of sweepstakes games, State Senator Joseph Addabbo shared his view that this legislation should act as a stepping stone to regulating iGaming. “Enacting my bill into law isn’t the final word—it’s a necessary step toward the responsible modernization of New York’s online gaming environment,” Addabbo stated. “By closing down unsafe, unregulated sweepstakes casinos, New York is reaffirming that any online gaming in the state must be legal, properly regulated, and equipped with strong consumer safeguards.” 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.

2026-04-02

SOFTSWISS Introduces Motion to Reduce Reliance on Technical Resources

(AsiaGameHub) -   SOFTSWISS has rolled out its new feature Motion in a bid to lower the demand for technical resources across operations. Billed as a ‘no-code workflow automation tool’, the feature is embedded into SOFTSWISS’s casino platform and allows operators to automate core processes including bonus distribution, user segmentation and player tagging. Designed for use by CRM and customer retention teams, Motion operates using three core elements: a trigger, a condition and an action. As an example, operators can input a trigger event such as a new player registration or deposit, then set a rule that specifies which players the relevant action applies to. The action then determines the end result, for instance distributing a bonus to eligible users. Once fully configured, Motion runs these established rules automatically with no requirement for manual input from staff. Suren Vardanyan, Head of Sales for SOFTSWISS’s Casino Platform, commented: “Motion solves a common operational pain point for operators – their reliance on technical teams to carry out day-to-day CRM tasks. “By enabling teams to set up and run player management logic directly within the platform, it eliminates delays and repetitive manual processes. This lets CRM and retention teams focus their efforts on strategic planning and player engagement, while supporting a shift toward greater operational autonomy, where business teams can take action faster and depend less on coordination with technical teams.” Per SOFTSWISS’s official figures, Motion is already being used by more than 130 casino projects globally. Focus turns to AI Earlier this year, SOFTSWISS announced the appointment of Denis Romanovskiy as the company’s first ever Chief AI Officer. Previously one of the firm’s Deputy Chief Technology Officers, Romanovskiy now leads the delivery of SOFTSWISS’s AI strategy and oversees the rollout of its dedicated AI platform, which is built to scale AI automation capabilities across all parts of the business. Ivan Montik, Founder of SOFTSWISS, noted that the creation of this new role is a clear demonstration of the critical role AI plays in the future of tech development, and the investment in specialized leadership reflects SOFTSWISS’s ambition to remain at the “forefront of the shift”. “We have seen first-hand the impressive outcomes AI can deliver,” said Romanovskiy when the appointment was made public. “Our current focus is on building AI into a trusted, well-governed and cost-efficient capability that delivers measurable productivity improvements across every department of the business.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

2026-04-02

Altenar takes legal action against Sportradar due to IMG Arena data block

(AsiaGameHub) -   A significant legal conflict is taking shape in the sports betting industry as Altenar initiates legal proceedings against Sportradar in both London and New Jersey. The core of the case revolves around access to essential sports data, with Altenar asserting it was unjustly prevented from obtaining key data feeds provided by IMG Arena. The firm is pursuing considerable monetary compensation, accusing Sportradar of anti-competitive practices. Altenar claims that Sportradar leveraged its market dominance to stop Altenar from renewing its contract with IMG Arena for official sports data. This allegation goes beyond a mere commercial disagreement and violates competition laws intended to ensure fair access to the marketplace. The dispute emerged shortly after Sportradar’s acquisition of IMG Arena—an deal that was reviewed and approved by regulatory authorities. However, Altenar alleges Sportradar interfered with its right to official data before the acquisition closed, even though both companies were expected to operate independently and in compliance with regulatory conditions. Altenar spokesperson said: Sportradar is trying to hold onto its market leadership by unfairly eliminating competitors. It’s using its sports data monopoly to crush businesses with competing offers, despite previously criticizing other companies for doing the exact same thing. We remain open to discussions with Sportradar, but its one-sided and aggressive actions have left us no choice but to take legal action. Both parties have taken firm stances on the matter. According to Altenar, Sportradar is attempting to strengthen its control over high-value sports data and limit competition by denying smaller sports data suppliers access to this information. Sportradar, on the other hand, denies the allegations, stating they are without basis, and has announced it will vigorously defend itself in court. The case reflects ongoing concerns about the concentration of sports data suppliers, where a small number of firms control access to official feeds from major sports leagues. The outcome could have significant and lasting impacts on competition, partnerships, and data distribution across the global betting marketplace. 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.

2026-04-02

Gambling advertising restrictions tightened

(AsiaGameHub) -   Following extensive deliberation, a new chapter is finally set to begin for gambling in Australia, as the government rolls out a long-awaited legislative overhaul. The Albanese Government’s reforms will establish a far stricter framework for gambling advertising, either restricting or fully banning when and where these ads can appear across the nation’s broadcast, digital and social media platforms. These new gambling advertising rules will be paired with a crackdown on certain harmful products and illegal offshore gambling operators, alongside strengthened enforcement measures and improved support for self-exclusion programs and financial counselling. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had previously held reservations about implementing a gambling advertising ban. Now, however, he appears poised to introduce such a measure to strike the right balance in Australia’s gambling market. Albanese remarked: “This government is taking decisive action to address the community and public health concerns linked to gambling. “We’re getting the balance just right here: allowing adults to gamble if they choose, while making sure Australian children are not exposed to betting ads wherever they look. The last thing we want is for young people to grow up associating football with gambling.” Australia’s gambling ad ban legislation Set to take effect on 1 January next year, the legislation places limits on gambling ads on broadcast television: no more than three ads per hour between 6am and 8.30pm, with a complete ban during live sports broadcasts within that time frame. Gambling ads will also be prohibited from:  Running on radio stations during school drop-off and pick-up windows (8am to 9am and 3pm to 4pm). Appearing on online platforms, unless a user is logged in, aged 18 or older, and has the option to opt out of these advertisements. Featuring celebrities, professional athletes, or odds-focused ads targeted at sports fans. Being displayed in sports venues and on the uniforms of athletes and match officials. Additional legislation to complement the gambling advertising reforms includes: Cracking down on harmful and emerging online lottery products, as well as banning online keno “pocket pokies”. Standardizing match-fixing as a criminal offense across Australia to improve sports integrity. Strengthening enforcement actions against illegal gambling operators. Bolstering BetStop, the national self-exclusion register, following its recent statutory review Expanding access to financial counselling support for those affected by gambling harm, and working to boost public awareness of the risks of online gambling. The government will draft legislation to enact these measures, with the full reforms set to launch on 1 January 2027. Anika Wells, Minister for Communications and Minister for Sport, added: “Gambling addiction is a critical public health issue, and this announcement marks landmark reform to reduce gambling harms in Australia’s history. “Starting on 1 January next year, Australians will be able to gather with their families to cheer on their favorite teams without being bombarded by gambling advertising. “Our reforms will sever the link between sports and wagering, minimize children’s exposure to betting advertisements, and reduce the saturation of these ads across online, radio and television platforms. “Australian parents, families and sports fans have been calling for action, and we thank all those involved for their ongoing engagement and advocacy as we worked tirelessly to strike the correct balance.” Want to catch more stories like this? Visit the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the go-to destination for all multimedia coverage at SBC, where our team delves deep into the biggest stories across the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate marketing 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.

2026-04-02

CFTC Chair Criticizes ‘Politically Driven’ Legal Action Against Prediction Markets

(AsiaGameHub) -   The leader of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has cautioned that prediction markets could meet a fate similar to FTX without a unified regulatory approach. Michael Selig, during a guest appearance on the Farokh Radio podcast, shared his worries that the sector might ‘implode’ as it is pushed further into offshore markets. He remarked: “We witnessed the downfall of FTX and various crypto entities, and I fear a similar outcome for prediction markets if they are forced into unregulated offshore spaces. “It is essential that these platforms register within the United States so that our regulatory framework can ensure market fairness, safeguard investors, and establish clear boundaries.” Regulated by the CFTC, companies like Kalshi and Polymarket have seen significant growth in the U.S., serving as substitutes for sports wagering in regions where such activities remain illegal. Major gambling firms, including DraftKings and FanDuel, have also introduced prediction market products to gain a foothold in states where they were previously restricted.  Nevertheless, various states have challenged these moves, arguing that the platforms are breaching local gambling statutes by providing services that resemble sports betting. Last month, a bipartisan proposal was submitted to the US Senate by Senators Adam Schiff and John Curtis, seeking to prohibit sports-related contracts and ‘casino-style games’ on prediction platforms.  “Congress must act to shut down this loophole, which undermines state protections for consumers, interferes with tribal rights, and generates no tax income,” Schiff stated regarding the legislation. In response, Selig criticized the ‘politically motivated’ legal challenges from states, calling for cooperation with the CFTC to develop transparent regulatory guidelines. “There is a tendency to avoid collaboration, and I am unsure why some states take this path when we are eager to coordinate with commissions to establish proper policies,” he noted.  “Our goal is to refine policy alongside all interested parties. We want to avoid a situation where states sue our registered entities to claim jurisdiction, mirroring the previous administration’s approach to crypto through enforcement-led regulation.”   Internationally, several countries have also moved to ban platforms such as Polymarket and Kalshi.  Recently, a court in Romania ruled against Polymarket following a challenge to the National Office for Gambling’s decision to blacklist the site as an unauthorized gambling service. Conversely, Gibraltar, a prominent European iGaming center, has signaled its support for the industry by granting a license to a prediction market firm. Nigel Feetham, Gibraltar’s Minister for Justice, Trade and Industry, expressed confidence in the sector's future, informing parliament that it represents a ‘significant opportunity for expansion’. 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.

2026-04-02

Lucien Barrière Group Acquires Póvoa de Varzim Casino

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Lucien Barrière Group has acquired one of Portugal’s most historic casinos, Póvoa de Varzim Casino, thereby expanding its international retail portfolio. Póvoa de Varzim Casino, a seaside resort that employs 220 individuals, has been a fixture for nearly a century, having opened its doors in 1934. It is situated approximately 30km from Porto. Featuring French architecture, the acquisition will grant Barrière access to the casino’s 500 gaming stations, which include slot machines and electronic table games, as well as 11 traditional gaming tables, a restaurant, a bar, and a theatre with over 400 seats that hosts a regular schedule of shows and events. Clément Martin-Saint-Léon, General Manager of the Lucien Barrière Group’s Casino, commented: “Póvoa de Varzim embodies all the elements that make the projects we develop unique: a place rich in history, a dynamic destination, and genuine potential for transformation. “Our objective is to present a contemporary vision of the casino, positioning it as a vibrant hub in its own right, where gaming converges with performing arts, fine dining, and the overall guest experience.” With the addition of Póvoa de Varzim, Barrière intends to implement a phased approach to modernizing the gaming offerings, enhancing the customer experience, redesigning dining concepts, expanding the arts and events program, and improving integration with Porto's tourist flow. Barrière also indicated plans to broaden its presence in Portugal beyond this acquisition, with a residential and hotel project slated to commence operations in Lisbon soon. Grégory Rabuel, Chief Executive Officer of the Lucien Barrière Group, stated: “This aligns perfectly with Barrière's current development strategy: evolving iconic establishments to unlock their full potential while preserving their inherent identity.” Currently, Barrière operates 32 casinos and one gaming club under the Barrière Casino brand, in addition to 20 luxury hotels and nearly 200 restaurants and bars. In recent months, operators have presented varied perspectives on the Portuguese gambling market, with some making investments while others have withdrawn from the region. Earlier this year, Super Group’s Betway relinquished its online sports betting and iGaming licenses to Portugal’s gambling regulator, the Serviço de Regulação e Inspeção de Jogos (SRIJ), ceasing operations on its sites after their revocation at the company's request. The licenses were held by GM Gaming Limited, which managed the Betway brand in Portugal. “As a global business listed on the NYSE, we meticulously evaluate all markets and their performance against our objectives,” the company explained. “Following a comprehensive review, we have decided to surrender our license in Portugal to concentrate on existing markets and growth areas with greater potential.” Conversely, in March, Rank Group secured a license to introduce its YoBingo brand in Portugal, following an assessment and certification process for its bingo platform that spanned nearly six years. SRIJ authorized BingoSoft, the Malta-based operating entity for YoBingo, to become the 17th licensed online gambling brand permitted to operate in the Portuguese market, authorized to offer online bingo alongside a curated selection of certified slot and casino games. For more stories of this nature, visit the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the central hub for multimedia content at SBC, where our team provides in-depth analysis of major developments 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.

2026-04-02