iGame

Behind the Gloves: How Boxing is Driving Change in iGaming

(AsiaGameHub) –   From compliance experts mimicking Calzaghe to PR directors striking like Pernell Whitaker, the iGaming sector has developed a strong enthusiasm for combat sports in recent times. This goes well beyond simply enjoying a fight. According to the pair who have driven this rapid change, the culture within iGaming has evolved alongside the expanding events schedule. Both Lee McFarland and Julia Weygandt have praised the industry’s attitude, a mindset that has allowed them to fast-track the expansion of Behind the Gloves and offer a fresh perspective on sector gatherings. Beginning with a simple pad workout in the park, […]

IGT Reduces Workforce by 700 Employees Worldwide to Enhance Focus and Performance

(AsiaGameHub) –   IGT has verified a global workforce reduction of 700 employees, representing roughly 10% of its staff, as a component of business restructuring initiatives aimed at future expansion. An IGT spokesperson informed iGaming Expert that the job cuts are intended to facilitate the company’s pursuit of sustained growth and to ‘advance with increased focus, agility, and competitiveness’. The IGT spokesperson stated: “While we progress the merger of the former IGT and Everi operations, we are restructuring our organization to hasten innovation, enhance execution, and prepare the company for long-term growth. “To facilitate this upcoming stage, we are reallocating […]

India Blocks 300 Websites in Black Market Operation

(AsiaGameHub) –   India’s government has ongoing efforts to fight the nation’s black market, blocking around 300 websites that promote illegal gambling and betting. Per the Economic Times, online sports betting sites, casino applications, and betting exchanges were among the platforms hit by the government’s move. The government has acted against more than 8,400 websites and mobile apps, reporting that it has blocked 4,900 since the Promotion and Regulations of Online Gaming Bill 2025 was passed in August 2025. The choice to implement such severe measures stemmed from worries about the sector’s societal effects. But the rapid passage of the […]

Cardoso named new permanent leader of Brazil’s SPA

(AsiaGameHub) –   Daniele Cardoso has been named the new permanent head of Brazil’s betting regulator, the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA), this week, following two months in an interim role. Cardoso’s permanent appointment was revealed in a Monday post on X by Dario Durigan, who took over as Brazil’s finance minister from Fernando Haddad last week. Cardoso joined the SPA in November 2024, initially serving as general coordinator for responsible gambling monitoring, before being appointed deputy secretary. Later, in late January, following Regis Dudena’s departure, Cardoso was named interim head of the SPA. Dudena, who had led the […]

Thai influencer handed a jail sentence for promoting illegal gambling

(AsiaGameHub) –   A social media content creator based in Thailand has been handed a prison sentence after being convicted of unlawfully promoting gambling services to her followers. According to reports from Thaiger News, 24-year-old Narumon “Mind”, who has more than 740,000 followers on Facebook, advertised a gambling platform via her social media story posts, while her account also hosted dance videos posted alongside links to gambling sites. The Don Mueang District Court initially issued a six-month prison term to the influencer, which was reduced to three months after she admitted to the offenses, with the remaining part of the […]

Blue One Casino in South Korea, previously known as Jeju Sun, to promote ‘stay-oriented tourism’

(AsiaGameHub) –   CSA Cosmic, a South Korean cosmetics company that is set to become the majority shareholder of Blue One Casino on Jeju Island, aims to attract more VIP visitors through luxury offerings that merge beauty and leisure. The company, which is listed on KOSDAQ and headquartered in Seoul, produces cosmetics and building materials. It plans to invest KRW3.5 billion ($2.36 million) in Blue One, which operated as Jeju Sun under its previous owner, Philippines-based Bloomberry Resorts Corp. The venue reopened under its new name on March 16. Of the total investment, KRW1.3 billion will be used to buy […]

Bipartisan US Bill Aims to Prohibit Casino-Style Games on Prediction Markets

(AsiaGameHub) –   A bipartisan group of US senators has introduced legislation aimed at prohibiting ‘casino-style games’ and sports-related contracts on prediction market platforms, according to various reports. The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) noted that the bill would apply to entities overseen by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), including prediction platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket. NBC News has also confirmed the bill’s introduction to the US Senate. Senators Adam Schiff and John Curtis are co-sponsoring the measure, marking the first bipartisan Senate effort to regulate the prediction market sector. They contend that these markets should be managed at the […]

Hub88 integrates Tequity content into its aggregation platform

(AsiaGameHub) –   Hub88 has embarked on a new content journey by adding titles from iGaming provider Tequity to its aggregation platform. Global operators partnered with Hub88 can now enhance their platforms with Tequity’s titles through a single API, including Tequity’s Originals collection of 17 in-house games described as ‘fast, streamer-friendly and fully customisable’. Crypto Trading games and Publishing vertical content are also included in the Tequity-Hub88 partnership, broadening the range of offerings available to the aggregation platform’s operator partners. Ollie Castleman, Hub88’s Managing Director, stated: “We’re delighted to bring Tequity onto the Hub88 platform. “Their mix of Originals, new […]

Roblox under scrutiny in the Philippines over child exploitation concerns

(AsiaGameHub) –   Philippine officials have been instructed to step up probes into crimes being carried out via online gaming applications, with Roblox among those under scrutiny. The Philippine National Police‘s (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group has been ordered by PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. to investigate, as he noted that platforms such as Roblox are being exploited to prey on young children. He stated: “Our duty to serve and protect citizens now extends to cyberspace to ensure their safety, particularly for children. “The PNP is collaborating with other agencies to examine how Roblox might be utilized for potential offenses, […]

Report finds Stake dominates operator visibility across livestreaming platforms

(AsiaGameHub) –   According to a 20 March report from livestreaming analytics firm Stream Hatchet, Stake is by far the most frequently referenced operator on livestreaming platforms. The analysis revealed that Stake appeared in 6,600 stream titles on Twitch and Kick during January 2026, representing 60% of total iGaming brand mentions. 1xBet placed a distant second with 1,800 mentions, trailed by Betano (837), Winamax (653), FanDuel (597), Bet365 (214) and PokerStars (270). Kick is owned by Stake’s parent company—a connection that Stream Hatchet content manager Mark Rowland credits for Stake’s commanding lead in the rankings. “Many Kick streamers receive a […]

The Bolivia Gaming Control Authority Awarded Over 1,200 Licenses in 2025

(AsiaGameHub) –   The Autoridad de Juegos (AJ), Bolivia’s Gaming Control Authority, reported on March 18 that it granted 1,226 domestic gambling licenses in 2025. The authority did not specify the breakdown between B2C and B2B licenses. Furthermore, the AJ stated it had utilized over 90% of its 2025 budget, simultaneously enhancing regulatory supervision and enforcement activities nationwide. The year’s funding for the AJ was allocated to regulating and overseeing lotteries, gambling operations, raffles, and business promotions throughout the country. In 2025, organizers of promotional events and raffles distributed prizes totaling 573 million bolivianos (equivalent to $82.8 million). Regarding the […]

Yes.com Prepares for Ultra-Lean European Launch

(AsiaGameHub) –   While gearing up for its Denmark debut, Malta-headquartered gaming firm Yes.com claims to have crafted the most streamlined market entry approach, even as Europe’s iGaming sector faces increasingly stringent limitations. Yes.com’s founding team is wagering that artificial intelligence combined with sophisticated automation will serve as the critical link allowing the brand to expand throughout European iGaming territories. A newly formed igaming venture headquartered in London and Malta has secured the premium Yes.com domain, with leadership from co-CEOs Georgi Pepelyanko and Mads Vincent Jørgensen—previously senior executives at Kindred Group and FDJ United. Supporting the co-CEO pair are Chief […]

Could a UK ban on unlicensed gambling sponsorships jeopardize white label partnerships?

(AsiaGameHub) –   Legal specialists think the white label gambling sponsorship framework shouldn’t face jeopardy if the UK government enforces a ban on unlicensed gambling sponsorships within football. This measure is under consideration through industry consultations, which the Department for Culture, Media and Sport stated is a response to the increasing threat of the black market in the UK. The aim would be to prevent non-UK-licensed companies from using Premier League clubs to target British consumers. In a statement dated 23 February, the government cautioned that the black market is connected to organized crime and that unlicensed operators “expose customers […]

German security researcher claims responsibility for MGA breach

(AsiaGameHub) –   A German security researcher has admitted to compromising the systems of the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), reportedly accessing confidential data such as operator compliance documents and player records. Lilith Wittmann, who identifies as an ethical hacker, claimed last week in a since-deleted social media post that she possessed evidence tying the regulator to organized crime within Malta’s gambling industry. On March 17, the MGA publicly confirmed a security incident within one of its systems and engaged its internal response protocols, stating that the matter is being treated with the highest priority. The authority refrained from revealing specific […]

German hacker Lilith Wittmann claims responsibility for MGA data breach

(AsiaGameHub) –   A German hacker has taken credit for breaching the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) and promised to reveal the ‘organised crime facilitation schemes’ that the regulator is purportedly engaged in. Lilith Wittman published her declaration on X following the MGA’s confirmation last week that it was probing a ‘system intrusion’ allegedly perpetrated by someone masquerading as a security researcher. Dear Malta Gaming Authority,Yes, I hacked you, and the data obtained has been shared with media partners, authorities,…. And yes, we will expose the organized crime enablement schemes you created while presenting yourselves as a “legitimate public service”. pic.twitter.com/Z7EqRnNbCk […]

bet365 reveals suppliers poised to succeed in Canada ahead of Alberta launch

(AsiaGameHub) –   bet365 has released its February leaderboard for top-performing games across various markets, offering a glimpse into which titles might gain traction in Alberta when the province launches its regulated iGaming market later this year. Although the exact launch date for regulated iGaming in Alberta remains uncertain, the market is expected to follow a similar framework to Ontario, where bet365 already operates. Each market uses an algorithm that considers game revenue, stakes, sessions, and engagement to evaluate the operator’s monthly game performance, though popularity differs across regions. February saw significant movement in Ontario, with Games Global‘s Area Link […]

Kentucky Adopts Bill to Increase Sports Betting Age and Expand Regulatory Reform

(AsiaGameHub) –   The Kentucky House of Representatives has approved House Bill 904, a comprehensive legislative proposal designed to overhaul sports betting within the state, notably by increasing the legal age from 18 to 21. This bill, championed by Republican Representatives Michael Meredith and Matthew Koch, garnered substantial backing with a 79-15 vote and has now advanced to the Senate for review. House Bill 904 introduces several significant amendments intended to enhance consumer safeguards and maintain the integrity of sports betting in Kentucky, further developing a market that has demonstrated considerable initial growth since its inception. Among its primary stipulations, […]

Prediction market update: Polymarket partners with MLB; Arizona files criminal charges against Kalshi

(AsiaGameHub) –   With the 2026 Major League Baseball season’s Opening Day nearing, Polymarket secured a landmark commercial agreement with the league this week. Polymarket revealed on Thursday that it has partnered with MLB, becoming the league’s sole prediction market exchange partner. This move places MLB alongside the NHL, MLS, and UFC as North American sports leagues that have established commercial ties with prediction markets. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred had previously informed team owners about a potential deal with such an exchange last month. “Our foremost priority is, and always will be, safeguarding the integrity of the game,” Manfred stated. […]

Okada Manila’s owner partners with PhilWeb for digital expansion

(AsiaGameHub) –   The owner of the Okada Manila casino is looking to expand its presence throughout the Philippines via a new online casino platform. Tiger Resort, Leisure and Entertainment has announced plans to roll out Okada Play to “seize new revenue opportunities” in the nation’s online gaming sector. Nobuki Sato, President and Chief Operating Officer of Okada Manila, stated: “OKADA PLAY represents a strategic move to grow our digital gaming footprint and strengthen our market leadership. “By broadening our platform lineup through this partnership, we can tap into new player segments while continuing to enhance the premium digital experience […]

Alea expands content library with 1spin4win slot games

(AsiaGameHub) –   Alea has entered a partnership with online slot provider 1spin4win, expanding its content library for its operator partners. More than 190 classic-style slots from the studio will be added to the iGaming aggregator, including fruit-themed games, adventure titles, no-line slots, and seasonal releases designed for major global holidays. 1spin4win’s plan to release up to five new titles monthly ensures a steady stream of fresh content, enabling Alea’s partners to expand their game libraries via a single, scalable API while preserving complete operational efficiency. Eduard Verdaguer, Partnerships Manager at Alea, said: “1spin4win has established a strong reputation for […]

ECJ opinion in Tipico case supports member states’ local licensing requirements

(AsiaGameHub) –   An Advocate General (AG) at the European Court of Justice (ECJ) has concluded that national gambling licensing mandates within EU member states must be respected, provided they align with EU free movement regulations. AG Emiliou issued this opinion concerning a player-losses lawsuit filed against German operator Tipico at the ECJ in 2024. Germany’s Bundesgerichtshof (Federal Court of Justice) referred the case to the ECJ in July 2024. Interpreting the EU’s frequently debated Article 56 of the TFEU framework, the AG stated: “If a member state mandates a license for specific services within its borders, and this requirement […]

Allwyn Seeks New Sportsbook M&A Opportunities After Novibet Deal Collapses

(AsiaGameHub) –   Allwyn International is looking into other acquisition possibilities for a proprietary sports betting technology platform after its Novibet deal fell through. During Allwyn’s FY25 earnings call on Thursday, CEO Robert Chvátal fielded questions about the breakdown of the company’s proposed Novibet acquisition, which had been announced earlier this month. Allwyn pulled out of the acquisition after receiving feedback from the Hellenic Competition Commission (HCC), with iGB learning that several potential remedies that were examined could not preserve the deal’s value. A key element of the transaction was to supply Allwyn with a proprietary sportsbook platform, though Chvátal […]

Saskatchewan increases funding for Indigenous communities driven by record gaming revenues

(AsiaGameHub) –   Saskatchewan’s provincial government has revealed a substantial boost in funding for Indigenous communities, fueled by all-time high gaming revenues. For the 2025–26 fiscal year, a total of $153.5 million will be allocated to First Nations and Métis organizations. This funding increase follows strong earnings reported by key players in the province’s gaming sector, including the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA), SaskGaming properties, and the online platform PlayNow.com. Industry analysts link these gains to gaming facility upgrades, venue expansions, and improved online service offerings—all of which have raised gross gaming receipts. SIGA delivered a standout performance in the […]

Gambling operators in Estonia voluntarily pay €1.4 million following tax drafting error

(AsiaGameHub) –   Estonian remote gambling operators have thus far voluntarily paid over €1.4 million ($1.62 million) to the Ministry of Finance following a legislative drafting mistake that temporarily eliminated their 2026 tax duties.  These payments, made in February and March 2026, are meant to cover the amounts the government would have received if the Gambling Tax Act had been implemented as initially planned.  ERR News reports that Ministry spokesperson Siiri Suutre said: “February donations—including income tax—totaled roughly €815,000, and as of now in March, about €595,000 has come in. The March number isn’t final, and we expect more donations.”  […]

Philippines to Enhance AML Measures Targeting Online Gambling

(AsiaGameHub) –   Philippine lawmakers are aiming to bolster the nation’s anti-money laundering legislation via a new amendment that could bring stricter enforcement against online gambling operators. Senator Joel Villanueva has filed an amendment to the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA), asserting that updates are required to respond to the shifting financial landscape and growing adoption of digital financial services and virtual assets. Should it be put into effect, the new measure will broaden the range of businesses obligated to meet enhanced AMLA compliance standards to include online gambling operators, virtual asset service providers, and more. The amendment would also add […]

Vegangster on AI, LTV, and the economic future of iGaming

(AsiaGameHub) –   The iGaming sector is navigating a landscape defined by artificial intelligence, escalating expenses, and rigorous regulations. These forces are transforming the industry’s financial models and compelling operators to reconsider the fundamental approaches to building, scaling, and managing their casino offerings. Max Chertkov, the CEO of Vegangster, discussed with iGaming Expert the movement within the sector toward sustainable operations and greater discipline. He detailed how Vegangster’s modular, fully integrated platform provides operators with adaptable, data-informed control, empowering teams to identify and address critical operational issues directly through the admin interface. Chertkov commented on the market’s present condition, which […]

SBC Summit Tbilisi 2026 to Attract 2,500+ Participants, Highlighting Robust Regulation and Sports Emphasis

(AsiaGameHub) –   SBC, in partnership with SMH Global, has announced the highly anticipated SBC Summit Tbilisi 2026, set to take place on July 15–16 at the Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace. Building on the success of the 2025 event, which drew over 2,000 delegates from 44 countries, the 2026 summit aims to attract more than 2,500 attendees, further solidifying its standing in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. The summit will feature over 70 distinguished speakers who will address critical industry topics, including regulations, operations, technology, affiliate marketing, and cross-industry collaborations. Sports will continue to be a significant focus of […]

NSW Pioneers Australia’s Gaming Controls With Facial Recognition Standard

(AsiaGameHub) –   New South Wales (NSW) has pioneered in Australia by greenlighting facial recognition technology for deployment in pubs, clubs, and other adult venues. This decision establishes new protections for gambling operations prior to the implementation of the statewide exclusion system. This measure will be incorporated into a fresh ‘code of practice’ requested by NSW Premier Chris Minns, supporting the Labor government’s commitment to bolster gambling safeguards by pivoting policy toward harm reduction. The code of practice establishes the ‘baseline requirements for the industry’ as it aims to implement the key protective measures detailed in NSW’s self-exclusion register—a mechanism […]

Anutin’s Election Signals the End of Thai Casino Plans

(AsiaGameHub) –   On Thursday, Thailand’s House of Representatives voted to appoint Anutin Charnvirakul as the kingdom’s 32nd prime minister, following his victory in the February general election. The leader of the Bhumjaithai Party secured 293 votes, comfortably beating People’s Party candidate Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, who received 119 votes. Anutin first took office on an interim basis last September, after former prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was ousted over ethics charges. His return dashes hopes for reviving the Integrated Entertainment Business Act, a policy his predecessor had vigorously advanced. Paetongtarn and her father, Thaksin Shinawatra — a prominent Thai power broker and […]