Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - Play’n GO has rolled out Granny’s Wild, a brand-new five-reel video slot centered on a character-driven theme that includes a coin jar gameplay mechanic, scratch cards, and wild multipliers. Press release.- Play’n GO has revealed Granny’s Wild, a 5-reel video slot in which a low-key daily habit turns into an all-out spectacle the moment Granny’s coin jar, which she has been stashing coins in for years, finally bursts open. No one really noticed just how committed Granny was to saving her loose change. That jar sat in place for years, growing a bit heavier each time, getting a little noisier with every deposit, always just one coin clink away from spilling its secret. Call it frugality. Call it a regular routine. For Granny, it is simply preparation. When the big moment arrives, she does not make a big fuss. Just a small grin, a quick adjustment of her instantly recognizable glasses. Then everything shifts: the familiar front room erupts into a riot of bright color, coins skitter across the reels, and her jar leaps into action, gathering up every glinting reminder of the decades-long plan she has been building. Granny’s Wild plays up that interesting contrast – cosy, approachable charm on the surface, calculated playful mischief underneath. Coins are not just part of the décor here, they are the engine that drives the story, pulled into Granny’s trusty jar as the scene grows louder and more vibrant. Scratch cards and sudden bursts of motion add to the sense that Granny has far more tricks tucked away than anyone ever suspected, while the overall tone stays light, cheeky, and proudly character-led. Play’n GO has a well-known knack for infusing its game worlds with distinct, memorable personalities, and Granny fits right into that lineup – an unlikely mastermind whose calm confidence carries the entire gameplay experience. It is a story about patience paying off, about ordinary objects turning into something theatrical, and about never underestimating the person who has been quietly preparing out of the spotlight. Magnus Wallentin, games ambassador at Play’n GO, said: “Granny’s Wild is built around a character that feels instantly familiar, then immediately catches you by surprise. Granny’s coin jar is her signature calling card – and once it cracks open, the whole world follows her lead.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - This new installment in the Big Bass series launches a little more than two weeks prior to the start of the globe's premier football competition. Press release.- Pragmatic Play honors the beautiful game with Big Bass Football Bonanza, introducing the excitement of football's grandest event to its well-known Big Bass series. In this 5×3 franchise addition, set under the glare of stadium lights, the iconic fisherman trades his boat for football boots. He is also accompanied by a teammate. Hitting 3 to 5 trophy scatter symbols activates the bonus round, awarding 15-25 free spins. During this feature, wild symbols are divided into red and blue squads, each gathering money symbols worth up to 5,000x the bet. Red and blue wilds are gathered on their corresponding halves of the field. Every fourth wild collected for each team grants 10 additional spins, with the first, second, and third retrigger applying multipliers of 2x, 3x, and 10x respectively. The fast-paced gameplay is further intensified when wilds appear without money symbols, or money symbols land without wilds. When this occurs, regular paying symbols can be randomly changed into wilds or instant cash awards. The release of this Big Bass title occurs shortly before the world's biggest football tournament begins, highlighting the provider's goal to create engaging gaming experiences connected to significant cultural events. Big Bass Football Bonanza brings further diversity to Pragmatic Play's player-beloved franchise, building on the popularity of recent titles like Big Bass Trophy Catch and Big Bass Raceday Repeat. Sharon McHugh, Director of Public Relations at Pragmatic Play, stated: “Big Bass Football Bonanza was created to embody the thrilling atmosphere of the planet's most-viewed football tournament. With its stadium-based backdrop and football-inspired icons, the game offers a fun new take on the classic Big Bass gameplay.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Press release.- FC Barcelona Femení concluded an outstanding 2025/26 season by claiming the Champions League along with three domestic honors. The club secured its second Quadruple, seventh consecutive league title, and twelfth Copa de la Reina crown. The Copa de la Reina final against Atlético Madrid drew over 26,000 spectators to Gran Canaria, setting a new attendance record for the tournament. Pina, Brugts, and Paralluelo all scored before halftime, while Pina netted in her fourth straight Copa de la Reina final. Record sixth final and victory in Oslo Every win this season had a story behind it. In November, three-time Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí suffered an injury that kept her sidelined for five months. The team kept winning without her, and when Bonmatí finally returned for the Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich, Spotify Camp Nou gave her a welcome fit for a legend. Barcelona advanced with a 5-3 aggregate score: Paralluelo opened the scoring, Putellas scored twice, and Pajor sealed the win in the closing minutes. FC Barcelona Femení reached its sixth consecutive Champions League final – the first club in women’s football history to achieve this feat. On May 23 in Oslo, Barcelona defeated Lyon 4-0 in the final. Pajor opened the scoring in the 55th minute and doubled the lead in the 69th, while Paralluelo added two more goals in stoppage time. Ewa Pajor was named the final’s MVP and the tournament’s top scorer, with 11 goals in 10 matches. This marked their fourth European title in six years, following wins in Gothenburg, Eindhoven, and Bilbao, now Oslo. Five Barcelona players were selected for the UWCL Team of the Season: Cata Coll, Mapi León, Patri Guijarro, Alexia Putellas, and Ewa Pajor. World’s best again and again Over the past five years, the Ballon d’Or Féminin has consistently gone to Barcelona players – Alexia Putellas won it twice, and Aitana Bonmatí claimed it three times. History could repeat itself at the end of the 2025/26 season, as four of the club’s players are among the top contenders. Putellas had one of the best campaigns of her career, recording 7 goals and 7 assists in the Champions League. Ewa Pajor scored in every knockout phase match, including the victorious final. Caroline Graham Hansen finished the Liga F season with 10 assists, and Claudia Pina currently leads the league’s scoring charts with 20 goals. The ceremony will take place on October 26, 2026, in Paris, and Barcelona will once again have reasons to celebrate! As FC Barcelona’s official partner, 1xBet stood by the club through every moment of this journey – from the January Supercopa final to the Champions League triumph in Oslo. Partnering with one of the world’s greatest clubs means far more than just a logo on a kit. Millions of fans around the globe are getting closer to top-level football, while 1xPartners affiliates gain access to a highly engaged audience under the market’s best conditions: up to 50% RevShare, CPA of up to $150 per player, weekly payouts, and a presence in more than 150 countries. This is the kind of partnership built alongside a team that wins with character, class, and true passion for the game. A new chapter awaits, and it promises to be just as special! Be part of this story with the 1xPartners affiliate program. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Fast Track has rolled out fully agentic workflows for its natural language CRM platform, Fast Track AI, allowing igaming operators to automate end-to-end processes using simple, plain language objectives. Press release.—Fast Track has integrated fully agentic workflows into Fast Track AI, the igaming sector’s first natural language CRM platform. This launch solidifies Fast Track’s position as a completely AI-native platform. Agentic workflows are a type of AI system that goes beyond just answering questions to taking action on them. Instead of requiring step-by-step directions, an agent understands a goal, maps out the sequence of steps needed to reach it, carries out tasks across various tools and data sources, and adjusts when circumstances shift. The user defines the purpose and checks the result; the agent manages all the work in between. For igaming operators, the real-world impact of this update is substantial. In the past, creating a CRM strategy meant users had to conduct analysis, navigate the platform, set up triggers, segment players, draft messages, and establish logic for multi-channel engagement. Agentic workflows allow users to state their goal in simple language and have the platform complete the entire process from start to finish. Tasks that once took hours of manual work and team collaboration can now be done in a single interaction. This signals the start of a new operational model for CRM. It will raise the role of CRM teams to focus on overarching strategy and creative ideas, while being able to depend on a set of agents to handle the execution tasks for them. Fast Track AI initially launched in September 2025. Over 70% of Fast Track’s users started using the natural language features within the first three months, and today almost all of them use it daily. Simon Lidzén of Fast Track says: “Our vision is to digitize the igaming industry and provide the first self-learning engagement platform. Since Fast Track AI’s launch, we’ve observed strong adoption. Fast Track AI excels in our ecosystem, where it merges the depth and detail of real-time data with its specialized focus on and expertise in igaming, the Singularity model’s capabilities, and the platform’s core orchestration features. We’re excited about the opportunities this creates for our clients and to help our industry shift to agentic workflows together.” Fast Track has a proven history of innovation in the igaming space: it introduced the first real-time CRM in 2018, the Singularity model (which moved its users into the AI-driven personalization era) in 2021, AI-powered gamification via Rewards in 2024, and the igaming sector’s first natural language CRM platform in 2025. With this latest launch, Fast Track aims to guide the industry into the era of fully agentic workflows. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The senior executive will serve alongside Anssi Airas from the National Police Board of Finland. Malta.- The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has announced that Erika Spiteri Bailey, its senior executive for BI and Data Analytics, has been appointed as co-chair of the Gambling Regulators European Forum’s (GREF) Information and Statistics (InfoStat) Working Group. She will serve alongside Anssi Airas, a senior adviser on Marketing Supervision and Illegal Activities Prevention at the National Police Board of Finland. GREF’s InfoStat Working Group is dedicated to establishing and maintaining an informal network of experts within GREF members, with a primary focus on facilitating the exchange of views and the provision of relevant statistical information from member jurisdictions. The group also aims to encourage discussions and the sharing of initiatives related to the use of data and statistics by GREF members for regulatory and supervision purposes. Through these objectives, the working group aims to enhance the collective understanding and application of data-driven approaches in regulatory practices. GREF has four other working groups: Anti-money laundering, Digital and Innovation, Enforcement and Responsible Gambling. The GREF 2026 Conference is to take place in Sofia, Bulgaria, from June 1 to 3. The event will bring together gambling regulators from across Europe to exchange views, share experiences and discuss key developments shaping the regulatory landscape. “The conference plays a central role in supporting collaboration among regulators and strengthening relationships across jurisdictions. Through discussions and knowledge sharing, participants contribute to a more coordinated and informed regulatory approach across the European gambling sector,” GREF said. Bulgaria’s National Revenue Agency is supporting the organisation of this year’s event. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Paf announced record full-year revenue while preparing for the upcoming regulation of online gambling in Finland. Finland.- The gambling operator Paf revealed robust full-year results, with revenue climbing 12 percent year-over-year to an unprecedented €214.5m. Profits increased by 5.3 percent, reaching €57.2m. This achievement comes even as the Åland-based operator prioritizes customer safety by consistently reducing its mandatory loss limits. In March 2025, Paf decreased its annual loss cap for customers to €16,000, establishing a €6,000 limit for players between 20 and 24 years old. Subsequently, the general limit was further reduced to €15,000. The operator states that these limits have eliminated its highest-risk customer segment, concurrently observing an increase in returns from lower-spending customers who lose less than €8,000 annually. Additionally, the operator experienced a 12 percent rise in active players during its last financial year. The company underscored a significant long-term milestone reached in 2025, as its cumulative societal contributions since its establishment in 1966 surpassed half a billion euros. Paf directed €55.5m to community initiatives last year, bringing its total historical contributions to €527.9m. “Donating over €500m towards fostering a stronger society in Åland marks a new achievement in Paf’s six-decade history,” commented Jan-Mikael von Schantz, Chairman of the Board. “Paf has undertaken an extraordinary evolution, from providing local gaming experiences in Åland during the 1960s to launching gaming on ferries in the late 20th century. With the advent of digital gaming since the early 2000s, Paf now stands as a recognized operator across multiple European markets. This success is a testament to the sustained and effective efforts executed with considerable expertise by Paf’s leadership and staff.” Expansion Plans for Finland Paf has submitted an application for a license to enter Finland’s regulated online gambling market, anticipated to launch in July 2027, thereby concluding Veikkaus’s monopoly on gambling within mainland Finland. The company is confident that its emphasis on consumer protection will enable it to sustain a long-term presence in what is considered a competitive market. The operator has actively been enhancing its brand visibility, securing a sponsorship agreement with former Formula 1 driver Kimi Räikkönen and partnering with the Swedish football broadcast Fotbollsmorgon for its 1X2 sportsbook brand. It faces competition from Sweden’s ATG, whose joint venture, Hippos ATG Oy, has also filed a license application with the National Police Board’s Lottery Administration. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The billionaire investor has bolstered his stake in the parent company of FanDuel and Paddy Power. US.- Kenneth Dart has deepened his foothold in Flutter Entertainment, emerging as the largest private shareholder of the global gambling behemoth. A filing with the London Stock Exchange indicates that Dart now holds 27.6 percent of Flutter’s voting rights—this comes after his investment vehicle, Candle Lake, gained additional exposure via equity-based swaps through its Cayman Islands subsidiary, LBS Ltd. This move raised Dart’s swap-linked voting rights from 6.25 percent to 8.8 percent. When combined with the 18.8 percent of shares he owns directly, Dart’s influence now covers more than a quarter of Flutter’s stock. Based on Flutter’s £12.85 billion market capitalization, Dart’s holding is valued at roughly £3.55 billion. The billionaire has not expanded his direct shareholding, as the swaps mirror Flutter’s share price gains and losses but do not grant traditional ownership or voting rights beyond the terms of the agreements themselves. Still, his increased voting power makes Dart a key figure in Flutter’s boardroom decisions. Dart is an heir to the Dart Container Corporation. In addition to FanDuel in the U.S., Flutter owns Betfair, Paddy Power, PokerStars, and Sky Bet, along with Italian brands Sisal and Snaitech. Its share price has fallen by over 55 percent year-to-date. London-based Parvus Asset Management doubled its stake to 10 percent in March, Flutter is currently reviewing its dual stock listings in New York and London. It made the New York Stock Exchange its main listing in May 2024 while discontinuing its Dublin listing. Now, it is considering dropping London to make New York its sole trading venue. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Data from 2025 indicates an ongoing trend of younger individuals seeking assistance. In the US, the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has published its 2025 National Problem Gambling Helpline Annual Report. The report reveals that over 31,000 individuals contacted the helpline monthly during the past year. Approximately 49.48 percent of all inquiries came from individuals aged 18 to 34, extending the pattern of younger people seeking support, with 70 percent being male. The percentage of contacts concerning traditional slot machines and electronic gaming saw a minor reduction, moving from 36 percent to 31 percent. Conversely, online apps accounted for 31 percent of reported issues, an increase from 23 percent in 2024. Over 73 percent of those who contacted the helpline cited financial difficulties as their primary reason for seeking help, a rise from 66 percent in the prior year. The leading three motivations also encompassed mental health issues (32 percent) and relationship challenges (22 percent). The NCPG stated: “The data suggests a future where assistance for problem gambling needs to be as readily available, prompt, and varied as the gambling opportunities themselves. Interactions via chat and text are consistently rising, indicating a growing preference for digital communication during times of distress.” During February, the NCPG urged prediction market operators across the US to publicize the National Problem Gambling helpline. The organization asserted that engaging with prediction markets presents risks to consumers that are largely comparable to those of sports betting, and consequently, operators ought to endorse the 1-800-MY-RESET number. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The Kansspelcommissie has stated its intention to monitor for any breaches of Belgium's stringent gambling marketing regulations. Belgium.- The Belgian gambling authority, the Kansspelcommissie, has issued a caution to gambling operators regarding their marketing practices in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The commission has indicated it will closely observe all licensee campaigns, encompassing advertising, promotional activities, and sponsorships throughout the tournament. The regulatory body underscored that Belgium's stringent limitations on gambling advertisements would be upheld, with inspectors tasked to meticulously observe marketing strategies to guarantee adherence to Articles 60 and 61 of the Belgian Gambling Act. Article 60 specifically prohibits player inducements and bonuses, whereas Article 61 institutes a prohibition on gambling advertisements unless expressly sanctioned by the country's Royal Decree concerning gambling marketing. The commission cautioned that the significant football event does not authorize businesses to engage in aggressive player acquisition. It highlighted that promotional strategies such as free bets, loyalty incentives, bonus credits, and cashback offers continue to be unlawful in Belgium. Furthermore, marketing initiatives linked to player conduct, including time-limited promotions or personalized engagement, are also prohibited. The regulator also indicated its intention to monitor social media platforms. Operators are required to deactivate interactive functionalities such as likes, shares, and comments where technically feasible, and calls to action aimed at encouraging user interaction are forbidden. In Belgium, sports-related gambling sponsorship has been prohibited since January 2025. Advertisements for betting at physical venues are also subject to stringent restrictions. Nevertheless, the regulator has previously cautioned licensees against exploiting loopholes in the gambling sponsorship ban, such as associating sponsorship with foundations, fan hubs, or news websites instead of directly with gambling brands. It asserts that such activities could still be deemed illegal advertising under Article 61. This cautionary statement aligns with comparable actions undertaken by other regulatory bodies. Both the KSA in the Netherlands and the ANJ in France have similarly advised operators to exercise prudence regarding their World Cup marketing and advertising endeavors. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - San Francisco Superior Court Judge Richard Darwin has issued a preliminary injunction, permitting blackjack games to continue amidst an ongoing legal challenge. US.- San Francisco Superior Court Judge Richard Darwin has granted a preliminary injunction, enabling California cardrooms to keep offering blackjack. This decision follows a legal challenge by the California Gaming Association against recently introduced regulations. The injunction imposes a 45-day suspension on rules that took effect April 1, which had mandated cardrooms to stop offering the game by May 31. Kyle Kirkland, president of the California Gambling Association, stated: “Today’s ruling confirms our long-held position: Attorney General Bonta and the Bureau of Gambling Control overstepped their authority in their attempt to revise California gaming law.” The California Attorney General’s Office commented: “The court issued a preliminary injunction, and we will respond appropriately in court.” The subsequent hearing is slated for June 30. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The two organizations announced they will share information to protect the integrity of hockey and related event contracts. U.S. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the National Hockey League (NHL) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The two groups stated they will exchange information and coordinate efforts to safeguard the integrity of both professional hockey and related event contracts hosted on CFTC-regulated exchanges. “The CFTC and NHL have each appointed dedicated representatives, who will discuss integrity-related issues, share information confidentially, and maintain open lines of communication between the two bodies,” the organizations shared in a joint statement. CFTC chairman Michael S. Selig said: “I am proud that the CFTC and NHL have formally signed this MOU, which advances the agency’s commitment to improving data sharing between professional sports leagues and the Commission. This agreement is another key step toward protecting the integrity of sports and shielding prediction market participants from insider trading, fraud, and other types of abuse. I applaud NHL Commissioner Bettman for collaborating with the CFTC and taking a leading role in safeguarding the integrity of professional hockey within our markets.” NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman added: “Integrity has always been and remains the top priority for the NHL, and it is fundamental to the trust our fans and partners place in our game. Our agreement with the CFTC enhances the comprehensive integrity monitoring systems we already have in place, and strengthens our ability to identify, deter, and address potential risks. This MOU reflects a shared commitment to transparency, oversight and protecting the integrity of the game.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Public prosecutors in China have warned that drivers who transport bettors to illegal gambling venues risk facing prison time. According to a report by the Chinese newspaper Gansu Daily, the Gaolan County People’s Procuratorate issued a public warning clarifying that both transporting gamblers and moving gambling equipment are criminal acts. The procuratorate noted a widespread misunderstanding of the law, with many falsely believing that only active bettors can face prosecution under Chinese statutes. However, prosecutors emphasized that judicial authorities have already issued prison terms and substantial fines to multiple individuals acting as "accomplices" to gambling operations. A spokesperson for the prosecution added that legal action is not limited to drivers. Couriers and individuals employed as lookouts for these illicit operations are also subject to prosecution. This warning is part of an intensified crackdown by law enforcement agencies targeting the rising number of clandestine gambling syndicates. To evade police detection, groups of Chinese gamblers have increasingly turned to hosting games in secluded countryside spots and vacant structures. These groups frequently rely on a system of sentries to alert them if law enforcement is spotted. Lookouts Also Face Prison in Chinese Gambling Crackdown To illustrate, the spokesperson cited a recent case involving a gambling ring that operated out of "vacant properties and isolated forested mountain areas." Earlier this year, a Gaolan County court heard that the syndicate reached out to three individuals, identified as Zhang, Li Jia, and Li Yi, in September 2024. Gaolan County, China. (Photo: TowerCard [CC BY-SA 3.0]) According to prosecutors, the ring employed Zhang and Li Jia to transport gamblers to and from the secret venues using their personal cars. The syndicate also compensated the pair for moving various gambling equipment to the sites. Meanwhile, Li Yi was hired to guard the entrance of the dens. The ring's leader, surnamed Wei, instructed Li Yi to raise the alarm if police officers or any suspicious strangers approached. The three individuals performed their roles effectively, leading Wei to hire them on a regular basis. In total, the three men earned "several thousand yuan" for their services, prosecutors noted. One thousand yuan is equivalent to approximately $150. ‘A Direct Causal Connection’ Following a police raid that dismantled the operation, the court ruled that Zhang, Li Jia, and Li Yi "carried out tasks essential to the gambling ring's ongoing survival and its capacity to dodge law enforcement." Prosecutors argued that the actions of the three men "had a direct causal relationship" with the illegal gambling activities carried out by the group. The court concurred, finding that the defendants had "knowingly offered direct support" to individuals engaged in criminal gambling activities. All three were convicted of gambling-related offenses and received six-month prison sentences, which were suspended for one year. Additionally, the judge ordered each of them to pay a fine of approximately $450. No Legal Loopholes “There are no grey areas in gambling-related crimes,” the prosecution spokesperson warned. “Assisting gambling operations is itself a criminal act. Do not be lured by high payouts or assume you can escape liability by merely helping these syndicates.” Under Chinese law, operators of small-scale gambling rings can face up to three years in prison. Those running illegal casinos face even harsher penalties, with organizers subject to a minimum of five years and a maximum of 10 years behind bars. In a bizarre incident earlier this month, a man in Anshan, Liaoning Province, contacted the police to complain that his fellow players had cheated during an illicit gambling session. “Please secure justice for me,” he reportedly urged during the phone call. His call ultimately led to the arrest and subsequent imprisonment of the entire group by the court. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Another prominent professional snooker player has voiced their support for a campaign aimed at removing the sport from Thailand's gambling regulations. These recent statements were made by 18-year-old Panchaya Channoi, also known as “Mind Sakol,” upon her return from securing the Women’s World Championship title, as reported by the Thai media outlet Siam Sport. Channoi defied expectations by defeating the 12-time champion and world number four, Britain's Reanne Evans, with a score of six frames to two in the tournament's final held in Dongguan, China. The young Thai player overcame Chinese competitor Bai Yulu and former Thai world champion Nutcharut Wongharuthai on her path to the final. Earlier this month, the emerging talent also claimed the World Under-21 Women’s Championship. However, snooker professionals and the sport's governing body in Thailand have expressed dissatisfaction that snooker is still categorized as a “gambling-like activity” under a law enacted in 1935. Young Thai snooker star Panchaya Channoi, also known as “Mind Sakol,” aims to pot a red during the final of the Women’s World Championship in Dongguan, China. (Image: WPBSA/YouTube/Screenshot) Snooker: Gambling Laws Still Apply Channoi's victory follows closely on the heels of Thai snooker superstar Thepchaiya Un-Nooh winning the men's title just weeks prior. Un-Nooh, nicknamed “F1,” also endorsed the proposal after his final match victory against Ronnie O’Sullivan, a legendary figure in the sport. He informed media representatives that snooker has “long been part of Thai society.” Advocates against gambling in Thailand are also backing the initiative. Upon her return from China, Channoi reportedly “urged the government and relevant parties to help push for snooker to be removed from the Gambling Act.” The young champion stated that her experience competing internationally, particularly in China, demonstrated that many nations “seriously support” snooker's standing as a sport. Kongsak Yodmani, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), announced earlier this year that the SAT would formally request the Ministry of the Interior to revise the 1935 act. 1935 Law a Barrier for Commercial Support Executives from the Billiard Sports Association of Thailand, including its president Sunthorn Jarumong, met Channoi at the airport upon her arrival. Jarumong informed the media that the cost of sending athletes to compete in professional snooker tournaments can reach up to 2 million baht annually (exceeding $61,000). He suggested that removing the association with gambling could encourage private sector investment in supporting Thai athletes. “I would like to appeal to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul […] to consider lifting the restrictions on snooker,” stated the association's president. “This will open up more opportunities for the development of Thai sports.” Under the existing regulations, snooker clubs are required to obtain special operating permits, a process that discourages smaller sports facilities from applying. This classification also hinders the growth of snooker-related infrastructure, including programs for youth development. Furthermore, it complicates the organization and funding of commercial snooker competitions. Experts believe this situation deters many promising young players from pursuing the sport. Match-fixing Concerns The snooker world has experienced significant disruptions in recent years due to controversies surrounding match-fixing and illegal betting. In 2023, the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association imposed bans on 10 prominent Chinese players for their involvement in a match-fixing scheme. Additionally, in 2013, a British professional player alleged that a betting syndicate based in Asia had offered him money to intentionally lose a match. The same player also claimed that an unnamed player ranked within the world's top 10 had deliberately lost a match against him. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Kazakhstan is expanding its gambling zones significantly, as the government has revealed plans for multiple new zones in urban areas and well-known resort spots. Current legislation allows gambling only in two locations: Konaev city in the Almaty region and the Shchuchinsk-Borovoye resort area in the north-central Akmola region. However, on May 17, 2026, the government unveiled new gambling zones along the Caspian Sea coast, as well as in Zaysan and Markakol. Additionally, starting July 1, gambling operators will be allowed to open casinos in Alatau city, according to Kazakh media outlet Zakon. The government initially announced its expansion plans in January. Back then, the tourism ministry estimated that each new casino could generate approximately $6 million in tax revenue. Kazakhstan’s Gambling Zones: Ambitions for a Small City In 2007, Kazakhstan prohibited all land-based casinos, slot machine parlors, bookmakers, and betting establishments, though it made the two previously mentioned exceptions. While adding more coastal resorts aligns with the government’s 2007 strategy, including an urban center in the list of gambling zones represents a significant shift. Zakon, citing government sources, stated that the objective of the Alatau “project” is “to create an economic, technological, scientific, educational, commercial, entertainment, and investment center of international importance.” The Kazakh government has ambitious expectations for Alatau, aiming to turn it into a partially deregulated zone that draws foreign businesses and cryptocurrency companies. The city of Alatau in the Almaty Region, Kazakhstan. (Image: Nikolai Bulykin [CC BY-SA 4.0]) The town, previously called Zhetygen, has roughly 55,000 inhabitants. The government intends to convert it into a bustling metropolis with a population of 2 million by 2050. Businesses establishing operations in Alatau will receive special tax incentives. The government will also permit them to use various foreign currencies as legal tender. Additionally, the government will allow the use of English in official paperwork. The tax incentives will cover exemptions from corporate tax, property tax, and specific types of VAT. Furthermore, “highly qualified foreign specialists” will be exempt from income tax. “Secured digital assets” will also be tax-free. Plans to Build a Global Business Hub “What was once a regular village,” noted Zakon journalist Andrey Gubenko in another article for the same outlet, “needs to evolve into a smart city and a global business hub in the near future.” According to the government’s revised regulations concerning Alatau, city officials have “the authority to recognize licenses, permits, accreditations, and other documents that confirm the right to conduct activities—issued by countries with high-quality infrastructure and/or international organizations as specified by the administration.” As a result, given the current situation, Gubenko stated that this could enable the city to draw a diverse array of foreign gaming operators. The plans, the journalist added, would permit foreign investors to open either a land-based or online casino in Alatau “using a license issued in another country.” Towards the end of last year, Australian law enforcement arrested a Kazakh couple accused of using a hidden camera and earpieces to cheat at casino table games. The duo used these devices to win approximately $800,000 at the Crown Sydney Casino. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - This awards program unites operators, suppliers, and technology providers from the sector. Press release. – DSTGAMING has earned a nomination for the White Label Partner category at the EGR B2B Awards, a recognition that further underscores the company’s rising footprint in the global gaming space. The EGR B2B Awards honor companies across the gaming industry for their outstanding contributions in fields including platform technology, operational services, innovation, and business support. This awards initiative gathers operators, suppliers, and technology providers from all over the global market, to recognize organizations that keep driving the industry forward through service advancement and operational excellence. The White Label Partner category showcases companies that provide solutions built to help operators with their infrastructure, management systems, and scalable operational capacities. DSTGAMING has been continuously enhancing its white-label platform ecosystem, prioritizing system stability, backend operational efficiency, and adaptable integration support that is customized to meet shifting market demands. As competition in the gaming sector keeps growing, operators are more and more looking for reliable platform providers that can support their long-term operational expansion. DSTGAMING stays dedicated to improving its solutions, while also keeping close track of industry trends and meeting partner expectations across various regions. Taking part in global awards programs is part of the company’s wider industry engagement plan, which offers chances to boost its visibility and stay connected with professionals across the entire gaming ecosystem. Being acknowledged at the EGR B2B Awards is a testament to the company’s ongoing efforts to upgrade its platform offerings and extend its global footprint. DSTGAMING is excited to attend the upcoming awards ceremony alongside other nominees and industry 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.

(AsiaGameHub) - The deal marks a significant milestone for both companies as they team up to provide players with a wider range of content. Press release. – PopOK Gaming has revealed a new strategic partnership with Tipico, one of Germany’s largest and most established casino brands. This collaboration represents a key milestone for both entities as they combine efforts to deliver a more extensive and varied content portfolio to players in Germany. PopOK Gaming noted that Germany is among Europe’s most structured and challenging gaming markets, and this collaboration capitalizes on the unique strengths of both companies. PopOK Gaming offers its innovative content portfolio and game development expertise, while Tipico brings to the table its profound market insights, robust operational framework, and trusted standing among players. Together, this partnership allows both parties to expand their reach and provide a dependable, top-tier experience to the German market. Karen Gulkanyan, CEO of PopOK Gaming, stated: “We don’t view partnerships as mere checkboxes. Collaborating with Tipico is meaningful to us because of their position in the German market and the high standards they uphold. Germany is a complex market, which is precisely why this partnership is significant. It showcases years of consistent behind-the-scenes work and signals that PopOK Gaming is prepared to work alongside Europe’s most reputable industry players.” This partnership represents a pivotal move for both companies, opening up new collaboration opportunities, extending the reach of PopOK Gaming’s content portfolio, and enhancing Tipico’s content offerings. It establishes a foundation for ongoing growth and impactful partnerships throughout the regulated European gaming market. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Altenar will present its modular sportsbook platform at the SiGMA Asia 2026 event in Manila, running from May 31 to June 3. Press release.- Altenar will participate in SiGMA Asia 2026, held at the SMX Convention Centre in Manila from May 31 through June 3. Recent studies indicate the Asia Pacific online gambling market produced over US$21.4 billion in revenue during 2025 and is forecast to surpass US$56.7 billion by 2033. Sports betting continues to be the leading segment in the area, fueled by increased mobile usage, demand for regionalised content, and the growth of digital payment systems. Even with this expansion, operators throughout Asia still encounter significant hurdles, including disparate regulations, localisation needs, diverse player habits, and the necessity for rapid product adjustment across different jurisdictions. In intensely competitive environments, adaptability and swift deployment are now essential for sustained success. Altenar's modular sportsbook system is built to assist operators in responding swiftly to evolving local requirements via customizable offerings, expandable integrations, and tailored betting experiences. The firm will leverage its attendance at SiGMA Asia to explore how adaptable sportsbook offerings can aid operators launching or growing their presence in Asian markets. Vagelis Bairlis, head of sales operations at Altenar, stated: "Asia is among the most vibrant and rapidly evolving regions in worldwide igaming, yet it is also one of the most complex operationally. Operators require technology capable of quickly adjusting to local market dynamics, player tastes, and regulatory standards. In this region, flexibility is no longer just beneficial—it is mandatory." Altenar recently revealed a collaboration with ArenaPlus, bolstering its footprint in the Philippine market. This partnership marks a further strategic move in Altenar's ongoing Asian expansion. Attendees of SiGMA Asia are welcome to visit the Altenar team at Stand 2570 to learn about the company's sportsbook products and regional development 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.

(AsiaGameHub) - The firm has been nominated for Creative Excellence 2026 and Best Aggregator 2026. Press release.- Alea has earned a spot on the shortlist for two categories at the upcoming SiGMA Europe Awards 2026, which will be held on May 27th at the Malta Casino during one of the busiest weeks on the igaming industry calendar. The company has landed nominations for Creative Excellence 2026 and Best Aggregator 2026. This recognition arrives during a year of steady growth for Alea, as the company scales its aggregation platform across global markets while continuing to invest in product development, infrastructure, and international expansion. A robust presence across NEXT.io Valletta The awards coincide with NEXT.io Valletta, where Alea will maintain a prominent profile both on stage and at multiple side events running throughout the week. Company founder Alexandre Tomic will join the panel “Founders Anonymous – The Conversations That Don’t Make the Press Release,” focused on the real-world realities of building companies, covering everything from tough strategic decisions to fundraising and acquisitions. On May 27, Alexandre will also moderate “The Day the Lights Go Out,” an interactive keynote built around a simulated regulatory crisis scenario that challenges industry leaders to respond in real time to the sudden loss of major markets. Later that same day, he will deliver “The World Under One Lens,” a keynote exploring what aggregation-scale data reveals about how the world actually engages with igaming: which markets are growing faster than projected, how player behaviour differs across regions, and why many of the industry’s biggest core assumptions no longer match current reality. Beyond the conference floor Alongside the official conference agenda, Alea will once again sponsor the Ice Bath & Yoga/Breathwork session led by Neil Agius ahead of the event opening, and will also co-host an exclusive CXO dinner alongside NEXT.io at Contessa Restaurant inside The Phoenicia Malta. To close out the week, Alea will also attend the BGaming Charity Gala in support of DAR Bjorn, continuing the company’s participation in community initiatives held across Malta’s event week. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The content developer is bolstering its market footprint via a state-of-the-art platform. Press release.- TaDa Gaming has bolstered its standing within the Italian igaming sector, broadening player reach for its portfolio of over 240 high-performance titles through a fresh collaboration with the established casino operator ZonaGioco. This agreement marks the latest in a series of successful Italian ventures for TaDa Gaming, with both parties anticipating strong results. Users of the ADM-licensed online casino, zonagioco.it, will gain access to TaDa Gaming’s mobile-optimized, player-focused, and localized titles. These games are distinguished by their engaging mechanics, dynamic features, immersive themes, and intuitive onboarding processes tailored to specific player demographics. The selection includes popular TriLuck titles such as 3 Coin Treasures 2 and the slot game Devil Fire 2, alongside the Crash game Mines Gold and the fish-shooting title Mega Fishing—all of which rank among TaDa Gaming’s top five performers in Italy. The integration is facilitated by Octavian Lab, one of TaDa Gaming’s inaugural partners in the region. Renowned as a highly adaptable online gaming platform, this integration will enhance ZonaGioco’s library while supporting TaDa Gaming’s continued expansion throughout regulated European markets. Zonagioco.it serves as the digital gaming arm of Diecimilauno S.p.A., an omnichannel operator that blends expertise in land-based gaming with a robust online presence. As its primary online brand, zonagioco.it has benefited from substantial investment, enabling it to collaborate with top-tier providers to deliver a diverse range of slots, live casino, bingo, sports betting, and promotional gaming options. With a track record for delivering immersive gaming experiences, every service is crafted to provide comprehensive entertainment for all player types, while strictly adhering to responsible and safe gaming standards. The partnership with TaDa Gaming also marks the first time ZonaGioco will offer fish-shooting games, the interactive, multiplayer content that serves as a key differentiator for the TaDa Gaming brand. Ray Lee, director of business development at TaDa Gaming, stated: “Italy represents a key market for TaDa Gaming, and we are thrilled to unveil our partnership with ZonaGioco. They are a prominent operator in Italy with significant reach across various player segments, and we are certain our games will elevate their portfolio and stimulate growth.” Toni Di Cintio, product manager at ZonaGioco, added: “Partnering with an innovator like TaDa Gaming assists us in fulfilling our commitment to consistently provide our players with the best in igaming. We are eager to collaborate and grow together.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - This announcement follows society lotteries achieving a record £1 billion in gross gambling yield during the previous financial year. UK – The Gambling Commission has disclosed that society lotteries in Great Britain have set new records for two consecutive years, generating over £1bn in Gross Gambling Yield (GGY) and raising £484.6 million for charitable causes. These figures were shared by Ian Angus, the regulator’s policy director, during a speech at the Lotteries Council Annual Conference. While celebrating the sector’s financial achievements, Angus also repeated the regulator’s commitment to take stricter enforcement action against unlicensed gambling—including unregulated land-based operations—backed by new government funding. According to regulatory data, the society lotteries sector saw a 4.7 per cent year-on-year increase in GGY for the 2024/25 financial year. Funding for good causes rose by 4.8 per cent. Players were also awarded more than £316 million in prizes during the same period. Data from the Gambling Survey for Great Britain (GSGB) shows that society lotteries are now the second most popular form of gambling in the country. Approximately 17 per cent of the adult population—an estimated 9 million people—played a society lottery between July and October last year. This places the sector ahead of general betting (10 per cent) and only behind the National Lottery (32 per cent). The growth is largely driven by digital and telephone sales. Remote sales dominated the sector, accounting for £793.3 million of the total GGY, compared to £314.9 million generated through non-remote channels. Action on illegal lotteries Despite the sector’s success, Angus warned that illegal operators pose a significant threat to both consumers and the reputation of legitimate charities. To combat this, the Gambling Commission is scaling up enforcement efforts using a newly allocated £26 million in Treasury funding, spread over three years. Angus stated that the funding will allow the regulator to automate processes, map the dynamics of the black market, and establish Great Britain’s first national risk assessment for the illegal market in partnership with the government’s Illegal Gambling Taskforce. The Commission’s “upstream” disruption strategy has already delivered notable results, he added. Social media platforms removed 356 illegal lotteries in 2025—nearly double the 190 removed in 2024. An additional 79 have already been taken down in 2026. In the last financial year, the Gambling Commission also issued 741 Cease and Desist notices, took down or geo-blocked 1,134 websites, and successfully removed 266,667 illicit URLs from search engines. “Illegal gambling is certainly a major threat to the society lotteries sector,” Angus said, urging legitimate operators to continue reporting intelligence to help “frustrate the illegal market.” Focus on charity lottery compliance Angus also addressed consumer safety, noting that the latest GSGB annual report showed 2.7 per cent of the total adult population scored an 8+ on the Problem Gambling Severity Index, indicating negative consequences and potential lack of control. While society lotteries are statistically proven to be lower-risk products, Angus cautioned operators against complacency, pointing out that individuals at the highest risk of harm typically engage with a mix of different gambling products. To support compliance, Angus highlighted the regulator’s newly launched “Licence Support” service. Following a successful pilot in 2024, the service went live earlier this year to provide operators with a single point of contact for technical expertise, guidance, and faster query turnaround times. New code for prize draws The speech concluded with a mention of broader market shifts, including the implementation of the government’s new voluntary code for prize draws, which came into effect on May 20. While the Gambling Commission does not regulate free draws and prize competitions, Angus stressed that the watchdog will continue to closely police the boundary between those products and illegal lotteries to protect the integrity of the licensed market. In other news, the Gambling Commission has wound down its [activity] in April 2020 at the start of the pandemic; we launched our Covid dataset (also known as the Market Impact data) based on information collected from a number of the largest gambling operators. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.