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(AsiaGameHub) -   A recent archaeological discovery indicates that Native Americans participated in games of chance as early as the Ice Age, approximately 12,000 years in the past. This positions them as the earliest known people to take part in such pursuits. The research was released in the publication American Antiquity. Robert Madden, an archaeologist from Colorado State University, examined archived records of Native American artifacts to identify the most ancient dice in the nation. His focus was on items scholars believed were connected to gaming or dice. “The results suggest that dice, games of chance, and gambling have been a persistent feature of Native American culture for the last 12,000 years, with the earliest dice appearing in Late Pleistocene Folsom deposits in Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico,” wrote Madden. Were Americans First Humans To Gamble? While Colorado still discusses the definitions of skill-based and chance-based games, the proof implies North Americans were wagering long before other populations. Earlier studies uncovered evidence of artifacts like dice and lottery-style games dating from roughly 5000 to 6000 years ago. This seems to be a widespread human practice, with analogous finds in ancient Egypt, China, ancient Greece, and Rome. For his quest to find the earliest dice, Madden applied specific standards. First, Native American 'dice' were two-sided. Also, the artifacts needed to be marked on at least one face and small enough to hold in a hand. They also could not possess holes, as that might suggest use as adornment. Madden identified 565 objects fitting these parameters and concluded at least 94 were probable gaming pieces. These items came from 57 archaeological locations spread over 12 states, all within the Great Plains and western U.S. The majority were from 2,000 to 450 years old, but a minimum of 31 were from 8,000 to 2,000 years ago, and at least 14 originated as far back as 12,000 years ago. Native Americans and Gambling Madden further stated that “the findings presented here place prehistoric Native American groups at the forefront of the invention of dice, games of chance, and gambling.” Researchers had earlier noted more contemporary two-sided objects with distinct 'heads' and 'tails' sides, similar to coins used in modern betting games. Upon reaching the continent, early European colonists witnessed Native Americans partaking in these games. According to Madden, the events “were often raucous affairs with huge groups of people around.” In more modern times, tribal gaming saw a resurgence in the U.S. about five decades ago. The Seminole Tribe of Florida launched the first high-stakes bingo hall in 1979. The tribe maintains sole gambling rights in Florida, where other unauthorized gaming operations face legal action. A 1987 Supreme Court win for the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians in California prompted the passage of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) in 1988. Tribes in California keep upholding their authority to provide the only legal gambling in the state. They are at the forefront of opposition to prediction markets, claiming they violate their gaming agreements. Although critics of tribal exclusivity contend an open market would generate increased employment, tax income, and drive innovation, the new find reveals the connection between Native Americans and gambling could be much more ancient than earlier understood. 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) -   During a March 31 address at New York University Law School, David Miller—recently appointed Director of Enforcement at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC)—told the audience, “the era of regulation by enforcement is over,” marking a major shift in the commission’s strategy.  In his speech, he emphasized that under the CFTC’s current leadership, the commission will focus on its core mission of “policing fraud, abuse, and manipulation” rather than setting policy.  He also issued one of the clearest warnings to date for prediction market traders, stating the commission will “aggressively detect, investigate, and, where appropriate, prosecute insider trading” in these markets.  Miller underscored that using inside information to trade on prediction markets isn’t a victimless crime and carries “serious consequences for market integrity and trust.” Miller Affirms Prediction Markets Are Not Exempt From Insider Trading Rules Miller used his NYU speech to outline five key enforcement priorities for the CFTC, with insider trading and market manipulation at the top of the list.  He specifically called out what he described as a “myth in the mainstream media and social media” that prediction markets are exempt from insider trading laws, noting those claims are “wrong.”   Miller explained that the Commodity Exchange Act and Rule 180.1—both modeled after federal securities laws—allow the agency to treat certain types of insider trading in commodity and swap markets as fraud.  A trade comes under scrutiny when it involves information someone was obligated to protect, he said, stressing that regular informed trading isn’t a problem and the agency targets those who “tip or trade with misappropriated information.” Prediction market exchanges also have a responsibility to protect their platforms, according to Miller, who called them the “first lines of defense” against insider trading and manipulation. He noted exchanges have a statutory obligation to “protect markets from abusive practices” and only list contracts that aren’t “susceptible to manipulation.”Former CFTC regulator Carl Kennedy explained these responsibilities to CasinoBeats in a February interview, saying:  “The CFTC is a mighty strong agency, but it’s a few people,” which is why Congress gave it the authority to let exchanges “help the agency regulate these markets.” He added, “If you are a registered exchange … one of your roles is also to be a regulator deputized by the CFTC to police your own market.” As part of their duty to police their own markets, Miller said exchanges have “an obligation to have appropriate surveillance, compliance practices and procedures” in place to “promote fair and equitable trading.”  During his speech, Miller also highlighted a recent case involving Kalshi, where a MrBeast editor used job-related information to place trades on the platform.He also pointed to the CFTC’s new information-sharing agreement with MLB as an example of the agency’s proactive approach to integrity risks in event contract markets.  Washington’s Pressure on Insider Trading in Prediction Markets Grows Miller’s NYU remarks come as the CFTC and prediction markets face increased pressure from Capitol Hill to stamp out insider trading.  On March 29, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), along with 41 other lawmakers, sent a letter to CFTC Chairman Michael Selig and the Office of Government Ethics calling on them to issue formal guidance to federal employees, warning against using inside information to trade on prediction markets.   In that letter, lawmakers point to suspicious trading ahead of the January capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. Armed Forces, well-timed bets that appeared to anticipate March’s joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, and speculation over former Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s job status.  Congress is also using legislation to target insider trading on prediction markets, introducing several bills since the start of the year, including: The PREDICT Act: Prohibits members of Congress and senior federal officials from trading on political event contracts.  The Public Integrity in Financial Prediction Markets Act: Bans federal officials from trading when they hold material nonpublic information obtained through official duties. The End Prediction Market Corruption Act: Bars the president, vice president, and members of Congress from trading event contracts entirely. Given the focus on insider trading in Miller’s speech, it seems the CFTC is trying to send a message before the next scandal breaks: while prediction markets may be new politically, the agency doesn’t see insider trading as a legal gray area and has the power to pursue traders who misuse nonpublic information.  This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   A new partnership between the national gambling helpline Linka pomoci pre problémy s hraním and BetBlocker, a charity that provides free, anonymous gambling-blocking software, will result in the software extending its services to include the Slovak language. Interest from the Slovakian public is already considerable. BetBlocker has already assisted hundreds of users from Slovakia this year and is projected to nearly double its user base in the country over the same period. Similar to trends observed elsewhere, Slovakia has witnessed a notable increase in recent years in the number of people seeking help for gambling-related harm. In July 2025, the Slovak national self-exclusion registry (RVO) surpassed 20,000 registered users for the first time. Furthermore, an August 2025 report from the Institute of Gambling Regulation in Slovakia (IPRHH) raised concerns that up to 300,000 Slovaks use illegal gambling sites, with 13.1% of survey respondents admitting they did so to bypass an RVO exclusion. The BetBlocker app effectively blocks access to both regulated and unregulated gambling sites, providing users with a more powerful tool to maintain their restrictions. BetBlocker's Founder and Trustee, Duncan Garvie, commented: “We are delighted to be collaborating with Linka pomoci pre problémy s hraním to bring our support to Slovakia. Partnering with local organizations to raise awareness of BetBlocker's services is the most effective strategy for connecting with those who need it. National support groups possess a deep understanding of their communities and the most effective ways to communicate that our small team could not replicate on its own. We are already seeing a rapid increase in the adoption of BetBlocker in Slovakia. This partnership will accelerate that growth, guaranteeing that thousands more individuals, along with their families and loved ones, have another resource for finding assistance. We extend our sincere gratitude to Linka pomoci pre problémy s hraním for enabling us to communicate more effectively with those affected by gambling harm in Slovakia.” Erik Kovac, a psychologist with the Slovak gambling helpline Linka pomoci pre problémy s hraním, added: “BetBlocker is a primary tool we suggest to callers who contact our helpline and wish to restrict their online gambling. It is an excellent initiative, and we appreciate this partnership.” 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) -   BETER, a premier provider of rapid-betting content, live data, odds, and streaming for sports and esports, has scaled its eFootball portfolio with new tournaments centered on the 2026 World Cup. By introducing over 4,200 monthly events, the company aims to assist operators in maintaining bettor engagement throughout the day, particularly during lulls and intervals between major matches. The expansion features World Cup–themed matchups alongside additional content strategically scheduled for peak betting times. This ensures bettors remain active before, during, and after 2026 World Cup fixtures, providing operators with comprehensive eFootball coverage leading up to one of the world's most significant sporting events. This new content bolsters BETER’s fast-paced eFootball ecosystem, granting operators more opportunities to sustain 24/7 engagement. Tournaments optimized for U.S. betting schedules, offering over 4,200 monthly matches BETER has introduced more than 140 daily matches tailored to U.S. audiences to ensure consistent activity throughout the day.   These matches utilize a 2×4 format and are scheduled daily (UTC+2) as follows: 01:00–03:00 — Premier League 03:10–05:10 — World Cup B 05:30–07:30 — Conference League 16:10–18:10 — Serie A 18:20–20:20 — World Cup B 20:40–22:40 — Europa League 22:50–00:50 — LaLiga This addition is designed to bolster operator performance surrounding the 2026 World Cup by sustaining betting volume during key U.S. time slots and filling gaps between major football games. World Cup–themed tournaments, providing over 3,600 monthly matches (part of the 4,200+ total expansion) As part of this initiative, BETER is launching three dedicated World Cup–style eFootball leagues. These tournaments serve as a cornerstone of the expansion, replicating the structure, intensity, and national-team focus of the real-world event. Delivering over 120 matches daily, the leagues feature top-tier national teams including the United States, the Netherlands, Norway, Mexico, Morocco, France, England, Portugal, Argentina, Spain, and other elite squads. The schedule is as follows (UTC+2): World Cup A: 12:00–14:00 and 01:20–02:20 (2×4 format) World Cup B: 18:20–20:20 and 03:10–05:10 (2×4 format) Volta World Cup: 00:10–01:40 and 07:00–08:30 (2×3 format) These World Cup–inspired matches mirror the anticipation of the tournament, helping operators drive engagement ahead of the opening whistle. With this rollout already live for most BETER partners, the supplier now provides over 40,000 esports matches every month, reinforcing its status as a leading provider of high-speed betting content. BETER exclusively produces nearly 500,000 esports events annually via its ESportsBattle series, covering eFootball, eBasketball, eHockey, and eTennis. These offerings include up to 50 markets per match and deliver an average operator margin exceeding 7.5%, surpassing industry standards.   Adam Conway, General Manager of the Esports Business Unit at BETER, stated: “The 2026 World Cup represents the pinnacle of football, offering a massive opportunity for operators to keep fans and bettors engaged around the clock. Our expanded eFootball offering is crafted to capture that excitement, with content designed to reflect the intensity and rivalries of the tournament. “By integrating World Cup–themed competitions with matches timed for peak betting hours, we are enabling operators to bridge gaps and keep bettors engaged before, during, and after every match. “With more than 40,000 fast-paced esports matches per month, BETER now provides one of the industry’s most dynamic and extensive content portfolios, bringing the World Cup experience to every screen.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   A technical fault in a William Hill online slot has been linked to a player suffering a heart attack. John Riding, aged 76, experienced cardiac arrest shortly after finding that his £285,000 ($376,000) winnings had vanished from his account. The error took place on the Jackpot Drop game last month. During that time, the platform distributed 35,072 jackpots, a significant increase from the 518 awarded during the same period the week before. Some users, like Riding, saw their balances credited with six-figure amounts. After celebrating the win at a local William Hill branch and telling his family, Riding was notified by the operator that the funds were issued by mistake. In a statement, the company explained, “A routine check of our platform's activity revealed a glitch with the Jackpot Drop game, which caused incorrect amounts to be temporarily added to player accounts and led to errors in withdrawal processing.” Stress and Disappointment Linked to Health Decline “I was completely crushed. It felt as though my dreams were destroyed,” Riding remarked to the Mirror. “I wasn't officially told it was a mistake, just that a ‘manual adjustment’ occurred. While the £285,000 is gone from my balance, the system still claims I am £285,000 ahead this month.” According to his family, Riding was in good health until he became stressed while trying to access and withdraw his funds. “The shock has been impossible to handle,” his son, Adam, stated. “It isn't just the money; it's the treatment. It feels like a major injustice, and the resulting stress has taken a toll on his health.” His daughter added that her father expressed an inability to cope with the pressure. “I attribute the heart attack to the stress. We all do!” A spokesperson for William Hill commented, “We are saddened to hear about Mr. Riding’s health issues and hope for his quick recovery.” Potential Group Legal Action The betting firm is now facing potential litigation. Paul Kanolik from Ellis Jones solicitors noted that about 50 affected individuals have reached out regarding a possible group lawsuit. The firm is encouraging other impacted users to contact them. Their website states, “At Ellis Jones, our legal team specializes in gambling claims, frequently assisting clients in recovering funds lost due to operator errors.” Last year, a similar legal battle was won against Paddy Power. The operator tried to cancel Corrine Durber’s £1 million ($1.3 million) win by claiming a system glitch. Following a five-year dispute, she was awarded the full sum. The judge noted, “It seems unreasonable for a trader to shift all the risk onto the consumer for its own negligence, errors, or poor digital testing.” Ellis Jones also highlighted the Andrew Green v Petfre case involving Betfred. Green won £1.7 million ($2.25 million) because of a technical error and was eventually paid after a judge found Betfred’s terms too ambiguous to deny the claim. With approximately 35,000 jackpots affected, William Hill is seeking cooperation from its users. “We have reached out to the customers involved to explain the situation and are recovering the funds according to our terms. We appreciate our customers' patience and apologize for the trouble,” the firm stated. William Hill’s future remains uncertain as its parent firm, Evoke, conducts a strategic review that could result in the split of the group, which also owns 888. 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) -   South Africa's online gambling scene is undergoing its most significant transformation in a decade, following a pivotal Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) ruling and stringent new directives from the National Gambling Board (NGB). Local bookmakers are now prohibited from offering fixed-odds bets on casino games such as roulette, effectively closing a long-standing regulatory "grey area." This change is causing considerable confusion for thousands of South African players whose preferred platforms are rapidly evolving. In response to this substantial market disruption, SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za, the nation's foremost independent casino review portal, has launched a comprehensive 2026 guide. This resource aims to assist players in navigating this transition, identifying secure offshore platforms, and exploring new digital environments without incurring financial risk. The End of the Sportsbook “Grey Area” The SCA ruling in October 2025 clarified that provincial gambling acts strictly prohibit sports betting operators from offering casino-style games presented as fixed-odds contingencies. The NGB has reinforced this stance in early 2026, issuing formal notices to Provincial Licensing Authorities to crack down on the use of Remote Gambling Servers (RGS) for unauthorized casino games. “The era of playing roulette or blackjack on your local sports betting app is definitively over,” stated a spokesperson for SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za. “Regulators are actively enforcing compliance. While this ensures operators remain within their licensed verticals, it necessitates that casino enthusiasts seek out dedicated, internationally licensed platforms that cater securely to the South African market. Our primary concern is preventing players from resorting to rogue, unregulated sites out of desperation.” Testing Unfamiliar Platforms with a No Deposit Bonus As players transition to new and unfamiliar platforms, SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za advises consumers to leverage operator promotions extensively. This allows for thorough evaluation of a site's software, user interface, and overall reliability before committing personal funds. The most effective tool for navigating this shift safely is the no deposit bonus. By claiming this promotion, players receive bonus funds simply for registering and verifying a new account, creating a risk-free testing environment. This enables South Africans to fully experience a new casino's mechanics, test platform responsiveness on mobile devices, and confirm seamless Rand transactions. It also provides an opportunity to assess customer support helpfulness before making any financial commitment. Maximising Value and Exploring Game Libraries with Free Spins While live table games were the main focus of recent legal actions, digital real money slot games remain a significant attraction for South African players. To safely explore the vast array of slot variations available on dedicated casino platforms, SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za emphasizes the strategic use of free spins. These promotional spins allow players to try out the latest titles from leading global software providers without using their own money. This offers a highly effective, risk-free method to understand a game's volatility, explore its bonus round features, and observe its payout frequency. Understanding Bonus Terms and Wagering Requirements While promotional offers serve as excellent testing grounds, SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za strongly advises players to understand their underlying mechanics. A no deposit bonus or a package of free spins is rarely entirely "free money"; they are subject to specific terms and conditions designed to protect the casino. The most crucial factor to consider is the wagering requirement (or playthrough requirement), which dictates how many times a player must bet the bonus amount before any associated winnings can be withdrawn. SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za actively vets and highlights platforms that offer transparent, reasonable wagering requirements and fair maximum cash-out limits, ensuring players have a genuine opportunity to convert their promotional play into real funds. The Importance of Localised Payment Gateways As players move away from local bookmakers, identifying international casinos that support the South African banking system is essential. Many offshore sites lack the infrastructure for seamless local currency processing, leading to high conversion fees and delayed payouts. SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za specifically identifies and recommends platforms that not only accept the South African Rand but also integrate trusted local payment gateways. This includes support for SID Instant EFT, traditional bank transfers via major SA banks (such as FNB, Standard Bank, and Capitec), and popular e-wallets. The presence of these systems ensures players can deposit and withdraw funds securely, quickly, and without hidden conversion costs. About SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za (SAC) As the premier resource for local online gamblers, SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za (SAC) provides an invaluable service by rigorously testing and ranking the best online casinos south africa tailored for the South African market. SAC offers players in-depth, unbiased reviews, exclusive promotional codes, and comprehensive guides on safe gambling practices. Every platform recommended by SAC undergoes a stringent vetting process to confirm it supports Rands, offers localized payment methods, and implements robust security measures. By partnering directly with top-tier operators, SAC secures exclusive deals that provide local players with maximum value when joining a new site. A Commitment to Player Security in 2026 As the NGB continues to enforce strict compliance nationwide, the distinction between sports betting and casino gaming will become increasingly pronounced. SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za remains dedicated to continuously auditing the market, updating its recommended lists daily to reflect the safest, most lucrative, and most transparent platforms available to local players during this period of industry upheaval. For further information on the evolving regulatory landscape, or to access the latest vetted platforms offering high-value promotional deals, visit SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za. 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.

R. Franco Digital, the Spanish iGaming provider, is set to showcase at SiGMA South America 2026, coming off a landmark year of commercial expansion for the brand. (AsiaGameHub) -   The company will return to São Paulo from April 6 to 9 to present its newest collection of highly engaging games and services, custom-tailored for the evolving Latin American market landscape. Franco Digital approaches this year’s exhibition after solidifying its market footprint across Portugal, Italy, and Peru, and is focused on leveraging this international expertise to support operators within Brazil’s maturing regulated framework. At the core of the showcase at Booth P105 will be the provider’s most popular games, including recent standout titles such as Strange Spins, Genie Triple Bonanza, Diamond King Gorilla, Luxury Blast, Zorro: Final Duel and The Phantom. These titles are created to deliver localised, highly engaging player experiences, setting new content standards for both regulated and emerging markets. In addition, R. Franco Digital will highlight the latest evolution of its IRIS platform. As a full-scale, GLI-certified solution for casino, sports betting, and retail operators, IRIS holds certification in key markets including Portugal, Spain, Colombia and Puerto Rico.   Javier Sacristán Franco, International Business Director of R. Franco Digital, said: “Brazil remains a primary focus for our global strategy, and SiGMA South America is the perfect platform to demonstrate how our games and technology can drive operational success. Our content portfolio and IRIS platform have evolved to meet the specific requirements of players across the LatAm region.” 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) -   Paysecure— a top-tier global payment orchestration platform— and Yaspa, a leading fintech focused on payments and identity solutions, today revealed a strategic collaboration aimed at delivering genuine intelligence to the payments industry. By utilizing Paysecure’s AI-driven routing and in-depth transaction analytics alongside Yaspa’s Intelligent Payments, businesses will be able to cut down on fraud while streamlining the payment experience for users via a single platform, helping them retain and expand their customer base. Yaspa’s Intelligent Payments represents the peak of payment processing technology, combining instant bank-to-bank transfers with real-time data insights. Built on open banking infrastructure, this solution enables businesses to offer Pay by Bank transactions that settle immediately, while also gathering detailed insights into users’ financial habits. Unlike conventional payment gateways that only transfer funds, Yaspa’s system transforms each transaction into an opportunity for identity verification, financial health evaluation, and risk assessment. By connecting real-time bank data with AI-powered analysis, the platform provides a holistic view of a customer’s financial well-being and identity validity at the precise moment a payment is initiated. Paysecure is a cutting-edge payment orchestration platform that helps businesses optimize every phase of the payment journey using AI-powered smart routing, real-time insights, and global connectivity. Its sophisticated data and intelligence features analyze payment patterns and performance, delivering actionable insights that allow merchants to customize the payment experience, boost customer retention, and maximize revenue potential. This collaboration will harness the combined data and insights from both platforms to create more intelligent and efficient payment experiences. By integrating into Paysecure’s ecosystem, Yaspa’s open banking and PSP solutions can be activated via a single connection, granting merchants access to account-to-account payments as well as a global network of service providers. Together, the platforms use AI-generated insights across spending habits, currency preferences, promotions, fraud detection, and performance metrics to help merchants protect the user experience and unlock the full potential of each transaction. When paired with Paysecure’s smart routing, businesses can adaptively optimize their payment workflows to meet critical performance indicators. Yaspa’s Chief Revenue Officer, Justin Fraser, said: “This integration and partnership with Paysecure marks a truly transformative moment in the payments sector. Operators have never before had access to this level of intelligence and data from a third-party payment solution right at their disposal. We’re excited to collaborate closely with the Paysecure team.” Mike Peplow, Chief Operating Officer at Paysecure, said: “The intelligence data we gather powers our AI analysis, enabling real-time decisions on routing, payment methods, and fraud management. Partnering with Yaspa not only gives us access to best-in-class open banking services but also provides account information that further strengthens our ability to optimize payment options, actively reduce transaction risk, and personalize the end-customer experience. This partnership brings together two data-focused platforms to proactively help merchants enhance their customer journey, offer more payment choices, and better manage transaction workflows.” Paysecure was recently named Best Newcomer at the 2026 Card and Payment Awards. This recognition followed the company’s announcement of a fivefold increase in the number of merchants using its technology. Its orchestration platform now links merchants to over 500 PSPs/acquirers and alternative payment methods worldwide. 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) -   Playson, a distinguished provider of digital entertainment, has significantly expanded its presence in the UK through a new collaboration with Bally’s Intralot, a prominent global entity in the iGaming and lottery sectors. This significant partnership involves the deployment of Playson's most successful games across six of Bally’s Intralot's UK-focused brands. These include Jackpotjoy, Virgin Games, Monopoly Casino, Rainbow Riches Casino, Bally Bet, and Double Bubble Bingo, making its content accessible to millions of players throughout the country. The integration, smoothly executed via Relax Gaming's aggregation platform, features a selection of Playson's well-regarded titles, such as 4 Pots Riches: Hold and Win, 4 Supercharged Clovers: Hold and Win, and Diamonds Power XXL: Hold and Win. These games are recognized for their captivating gameplay, sophisticated graphics, and proven ability to boost player engagement and acquisition in regulated markets. This agreement represents a key achievement in Playson's UK expansion strategy, solidifying its status as a reliable supplier capable of delivering high-quality, data-informed content at scale within one of the industry's most established and strictly regulated territories. The collaboration also paves the way for future growth, with both companies exploring opportunities to extend their partnership into other regulated markets, including Spain, Greece, and Ontario.   Conor Jenner, Senior Sales Manager at Playson, stated: “The launch across all six of Bally’s Intralot’s UK brands is a major accomplishment for Playson, underscoring the quality and consistency of our game portfolio. The UK is a crucial strategic market for us, and partnering with an operator of this caliber enables us to reach a vast and highly engaged player base with our content. “We are confident that our games will be well-received by players and are eager to extend this successful partnership into new territories.”   Richard Harris, Chief Commercial Officer B2C at Bally’s Intralot, commented: “Playson has earned a strong reputation for providing high-quality, engaging content that consistently performs well in regulated markets. Incorporating their portfolio across our UK brands enriches our offering and provides our players with a diverse array of proven titles. “We are delighted to partner with Playson and anticipate growing this relationship across multiple 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.

(AsiaGameHub) -   N1 Partners has been awarded the Best Affiliate Program in Central and Eastern Europe at the 2026 GamingTECH Awards, presented during the HIPTHER Prague Summit—this milestone underscores the company’s growing trajectory and industry standing. This win highlights the strength of N1 Partners’ affiliate ecosystem and its unwavering focus on delivering performance-driven solutions for partners across key markets. Alexa Bond, Head of Affiliates at N1 Partners, stated: “This award is a testament to the work we’ve put into building more than just an affiliate program. We prioritize creating a robust, reliable ecosystem where partners can scale confidently, supported by transparent processes, high-performing products, and a team that understands real-world market dynamics. It’s fantastic to see this approach recognized industry-wide, and it fuels our motivation to keep advancing.” N1 Partners continues to stand out through its mix of high-converting brands, flexible partnership models, and product-focused approach to retention and monetization. With strong Reg2Dep performance in Tier-1 GEOs, tailored offers, and an expanding portfolio of casino and sportsbook brands, the company equips partners with trusted tools to grow and maximize revenue. A key driver behind this recognition is N1 Partners’ focus on performance-based initiatives that directly support partner growth. One recent example is the N1 SEO Traffic Cup, a flagship affiliate tournament designed for SEO traffic. The campaign challenges partners to compete by driving high-quality traffic, improving their N1 Cup Score, and climbing the leaderboard to unlock premium rewards. N1 Partners extends sincere thanks to HIPTHER for this recognition and to all partners whose trust and collaboration fuel the company’s growth. This achievement would not be possible without you. N1 Partners is a multi-brand affiliate program and direct advertiser. The company unites 14+ casino and betting brands, operates across Tier-1 GEOs, delivers Reg2Dep rates of up to 70%, and offers competitive deals for top partners — CPA up to €700 and RevShare up to 45%. Trusted by 14,000+ partners, N1 Partners is recognized for its transparency, flexibility, and partner-first approach — where people and communication quality remain the foundation of long-term success.  This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   A comprehensive integration now provides Lynon's worldwide network of operators with access to ICONIC21's complete multi-vertical game portfolio, which includes the Gravity Series. The sought-after iGaming content studio ICONIC21 has expanded its global reach through a new strategic alliance with casino game aggregator Lynon, known for its extensive content collection and swift integration process. This deal enables Lynon to incorporate ICONIC21's entire gaming suite, presenting operators with a full-spectrum offering of high-performance live casino, slot, and virtual game titles. Lynon has earned its standing by delivering an enormous library of premier iGaming content through one powerful API integration. The aggregator follows a partner-centric approach, emphasizing transparency and mutual success, a commercial ethos that matches ICONIC21's own values. The integration features ICONIC21's most popular content, particularly the Gravity Series. This line was recently enhanced with the introduction of Gravity Wheel, a vertical game show built for rapid gameplay and ongoing multiplier action. In addition to the live studio offerings, partners of Lynon will also receive access to recent RNG hits like Chicken Run, Mines, and numerous other well-liked game types. On the partnership, Alina Mihaela Popa, Chief Commercial Officer at ICONIC21, stated: “Teaming up with Lynon is a logical step, as both organizations are dedicated to cultivating lasting, valuable partnerships. Lynon's capacity to distribute our products to a broad spectrum of operators is crucial for our growth plans. Supplying their network with our entire range of games, from the dynamic Gravity Wheel to our newest instant-win releases, guarantees that a larger audience of players can enjoy the quality and creativity that are hallmarks of ICONIC21.” For Lynon, Tigran Ayvazyan, Managing Partner, commented: “We are delighted to add ICONIC21 to our aggregation platform. Our aim is to furnish operators with the most complete and captivating content on the market. We are confident that merging ICONIC21's energetic product range with our frictionless integration technology will produce outstanding outcomes for our partners.” The launch with Lynon represents another swift move in ICONIC21's quest to grow its presence in international markets. By supplying a versatile, performance-oriented portfolio that meets varied player tastes, ICONIC21 further strengthens its status as a content provider of choice for the industry's leading aggregators and operators. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   New approvals in U.S. states and applications in Canadian provinces drive Catalist Sports’ latest expansion across regulated North American markets Catalist Sports, a leading licensed supplier of sports betting content to the regulated U.S. marketplace, has continued to expand its regulated market footprint with new supplier licenses secured in Arkansas and Nebraska, alongside recently submitted Canadian applications in Ontario and Alberta. Arkansas’ regulated sports betting market is set for significant growth, with major operators including DraftKings and FanDuel entering the state in March 2026. In addition to Arkansas, Catalist Sports has successfully obtained a supplier license in Nebraska. Following the approval of its supplier license in Missouri, the latest state to regulate online gambling, in December, Catalist Sports is now licensed in 30 U.S. jurisdictions, with two Canadian provinces expected to follow. These license updates reinforce Catalist Sports’ commitment to serving both U.S. and Canadian regulated betting markets with compliant, high-quality content and services. “Securing licenses in new jurisdictions and strengthening our regulatory standing is fundamental to serving as a trusted, key supplier to our operator partners,” said James Monk, Vice President & General Manager of Catalist Sports. “Arkansas represents an exciting next step for us, particularly as major brands prepare to enter the market. At the same time, our licenses in Nebraska, along with applications in Ontario and Alberta, and ongoing license upgrades, position Catalist to continue delivering scalable, compliant, and differentiated services to our partners.” Catalist Sports’ expanding North American footprint supports the company’s broader strategy to provide licensed operators with premium data, live streaming, and advanced trading capabilities, helping partners maximize in-play engagement, product innovation, and long-term growth in regulated markets. Catalist Sports distributes official data and live streaming rights from a vast portfolio of events to licensed U.S. sportsbooks. This includes top-tier tennis properties such as the Australian Open, ITF World Tour, Davis Cup, and Billie Jean King Cup, as well as events across soccer, basketball, and ice hockey, which power year-round engagement for sportsbooks seeking continuous, high-frequency, high-quality live betting content.   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) -   Global software firm Digicode has unveiled DigerPAM, an enterprise-grade Player Account Management (PAM) system designed to act as the operational foundation for modern iGaming operators. DigerPAM brings together core account functions, CRM, compliance tools, promotional features, analytics, and growth workflows into a single scalable platform, enabling operators to manage players and brands with transparency, control, and enhanced performance. A platform crafted for operational excellence and market-ready compliance DigerPAM is tailored for operators navigating complex regulatory landscapes and multi-brand strategies. The system consolidates every player touchpoint—from acquisition and registration to lifecycle engagement and retention—within a single intelligent framework. Key capabilities include: Unified operational hub: Effortlessly manage player profiles, wallets, CRM, bonus engines, content, compliance processes, and reporting all from one system. End-to-end lifecycle management: Track and engage players from their first interaction to lifetime value using real-time behavioural insights and segmentation tools. Integrated compliance and reporting: Optional KYC/identity verification, responsible gaming resources, immutable tax logs, and regulatory reporting support across various jurisdictions. Modular, scalable architecture: Cloud-agnostic microservices customized for high traffic volumes, multi-currency operations, and rapid onboarding of new service providers. Optional suite integrations: Native compatibility with the DiGER suite—including DigerRGS, DigerPay, DigerClick, and DigerCompanion—to expand the platform’s capabilities. A solution tailored to the realities of modern iGaming As industry demands evolve rapidly, DigerPAM is built to support both standalone operations and complex brand ecosystems. Operators gain deep visibility into player behaviour, campaign performance, compliance readiness, and business KPIs—all without relying on disjointed legacy tools. “Today’s operators need a unified engine that doesn’t just manage accounts but drives growth with operational intelligence and compliance at its core,” said Max Maslii, Global CEO at Digicode. “DigerPAM surfaces actionable insights across the player lifecycle and eliminates fragmentation, helping brands scale with confidence.”   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) -   Betting brand ignites discussion with a humorous "signature neon green cue ball" prank before amplifying fan-centric activities at the World Snooker Championship Midnite and World Snooker Tour (WST) collaborated to create a campaign-driven moment for snooker, employing an April Fool's prank to generate buzz leading up to the 2026 Halo World Snooker Championship, before shifting focus to a more extensive fan engagement program in Sheffield. Earlier this week, WST and Midnite declared that the sport's iconic white cue ball would be substituted with a signature Midnite neon green version – a tribute to Midnite's brand identity as the event's official UK betting and casino partner. The announcement quickly gained momentum with fans, igniting discussions on social media and drawing responses from players, before it was revealed to be an April Fool's jest. Although the ball will stay the same, the prank is a component of a wider Midnite strategy to animate its brand during the tournament without compromising the sport's integrity. Andrew Mook, Head of Brand Marketing at Midnite, stated the goal was to "stimulate conversation and highlight all the activity surrounding the tournament," noting that the public response showed "the immense passion of snooker fans". From prank to prolonged engagement Instead of interfering with the game, Midnite's campaign aims to enhance the fan experience away from the table – transforming interest into active involvement throughout the 17-day championship. A key element is the revival of the Midnite Lounge, a physical fan engagement area in Sheffield operating for the duration of the event. Expanding on its introduction at the 2026 Masters, the venue will feature exhibition matches, amateur contests with local snooker clubs, and complimentary play sessions, in addition to appearances by current and past professional players. The brand is also reintroducing its “Midnite Maximum” promotion – a giveaway initiative that previously granted £25,000 to a fan after a maximum break. This year, the potential prize has been increased to up to £100,000, enlarging the concept to sustain engagement throughout the tournament. Collectively, these efforts represent a broader trend in sports marketing, where brands are concentrating more on developing interactive experiences instead of depending only on conventional sponsorship exposure. Harmonizing tradition with brand development For WST, the initiative shows how commercial alliances can boost engagement while honoring the customs of a traditional sport. World No.2 Kyren Wilson affirmed this equilibrium, stating that “snooker should not abandon the traditions it was founded on,” while supporting projects that provide fans “additional ways to participate and enjoy the event outside of the matches”. WST Chief Commercial Officer Peter Wright further commented that Midnite's activations would “enhance the experience for spectators at the Crucible,” emphasizing how interactive elements like amateur tournaments and exhibition games help widen the sport's appeal. A blueprint for contemporary sponsorship The campaign serves as a prime illustration of how brands can leverage cultural events – even lighthearted ones – to capture attention, then channel that interest into more meaningful interaction. By combining a wide-reaching, low-risk stunt with physical activations and recurring promotions like Midnite Maximum, Midnite and WST have established a multifaceted strategy that merges brand awareness, fan participation, and rewards. As major sports events vie for viewer interest, this kind of integrated activation model – merging socially-driven creativity with tangible experiences – is growing more essential in the sponsorship handbook. For Midnite, the underlying principle is evident: the essence of the game is preserved, but the manner in which fans connect with it is being transformed. 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 year’s first golf major is here, as The Masters gets underway next week at Augusta National. Rory McIlroy is the defending champion, having completed his career grand slam last year. DraftKings Odds for The Masters Take a look at the odds for top contenders to win The Masters at DraftKings: Scottie Scheffler +405 Jon Rahm +850 Rory McIlroy +1000 Bryson DeChambeau +1075 Xander Schauffele +1800 Ludvig Aberg +2000 Cameron Young +2350 Tommy Fleetwood +2500 Matt Fitzpatrick +2600 Collin Morikawa +3100 Justin Rose +3600 Jordan Spieth +3800 Brooks Koepka +3800 Hideki Matsuyama +3900 Russell Henley +4200 Chris Gotterup +4300 Patrick Reed +4400 Robert MacIntyre +4600 Viktor Hovland +4600 Si Woo Kim +4700 Min Woo Lee +5400 Justin Thomas +5500 Patrick Cantlay +5700 Adam Scott +6200 Akshay Bhatia +6500 Sepp Straka +6700 Jason Day +6800 Tyrrell Hatton +6800 Jake Knapp +6900 Shane Lowry +7000 Scottie Scheffler, as usual, is the betting favorite. He’s aiming for his third green jacket after winning in 2022 and 2024. Top Picks for the 2026 Masters Champion Favorite Pick: Ludvig Aberg (+2000) Ludvig Aberg is competing in The Masters for the third time. The skilled Swede made a splash at Augusta National in his 2024 debut, finishing as runner-up. Last year, Aberg was tied for the lead with McIlroy and Justin Rose late in Sunday’s final round. Regrettably, he bogeyed the 17th hole and suffered a triple bogey on the 8th, dropping to seventh place by the end. The question isn’t whether Aberg will win The Masters, but when and how many times. We’re optimistic about his chances this year, given his tied-for-third finish at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and tied-for-fifth at The Players Championship. Sleeper Pick: Russell Henley (+4200) Russell Henley is still chasing his first major title, but he’s on the cusp of a breakthrough. The Georgia native finished tied for fourth at the 2023 Masters—his best result in a major tournament to date. He also notched a solo fifth-place finish at the 2024 Open Championship and a tied-for-seventh at the US Open that same year. Henley earned his fifth PGA Tour win at the 2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational earlier this year. If he finds himself in contention again on Sunday, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him wearing a green jacket. Photo by Kris Johnson Longshot Pick: Adam Scott (+6200) Do you remember Justin Rose at Augusta National last year? Only McIlroy’s inspired playoff performance kept him from claiming the green jacket. Adam Scott could be this year’s version of Rose—he won The Masters in 2013 and was runner-up in 2011. At 45, both players are still playing some of the best golf of their careers. Scott is making his 25th career start at The Masters, with five top-10 finishes at Augusta National under his belt. With his long drives and deft touch on the greens, Scott has the game to win here again. His recent form includes a fourth-place finish at Riviera and a tied-for-11th at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. 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) -   Authorities in Macao have taken a self-proclaimed Chinese gambling expert into custody following an inquiry into suspected embezzlement and fraud. While investigators withheld the individual's name, TDM, a Macao media outlet, reported that the suspect is a 31-year-old man from Mainland China. According to police, the individual swindled a middle-aged woman out of roughly 255,000 patacas (nearly $32,000) by offering to instruct her in gambling techniques. Law enforcement noted that the "guru" first encountered the woman last November and scheduled a gambling trip to Macao shortly thereafter. To establish credibility regarding his supposed expertise, the man reportedly showed the victim a WeChat Pay balance totaling 1.8 million yuan (exceeding $260,400) on multiple occasions before they began gambling, police said. Upon arriving in Macao, the pair met near the Hengqin Port checkpoint and reportedly visited two local casinos. A government building located in Macao's Hengqin Port district. (Image: Enviro2800 [CC BY-SA 4.0]) Gambling Expert Apprehended at Border Crossing Officials stated that the man secured two loans from the victim under the guise of demonstrating his gambling prowess. His reputation as a skilled player was quickly debunked when he proceeded to lose the majority of the borrowed funds, police noted. The suspect allegedly told the woman he was unable to pay her back immediately, citing daily transfer restrictions on the electronic payment platform. The man subsequently fled the scene and attempted to return to the mainland, but was intercepted and arrested at a border checkpoint on March 24. During the ensuing interrogation, investigators determined that his claims of possessing over $260,000 in his digital accounts were entirely fabricated. Police concluded that the suspect lacked the necessary funds to reimburse the victim for the borrowed money. Ongoing Enforcement Efforts Macao law enforcement is maintaining its push against crimes linked to the gaming industry. On March 30, the Judiciary Police announced the arrest of a 32-year-old Mainland Chinese national at Macao International Airport. This individual, along with a suspected partner, is accused of tricking an unauthorized currency exchanger out of casino chips valued at more than $2,760. The woman who was targeted in the scam will also face charges for her involvement in an illicit currency exchange ring, according to police. Authorities observed that unregulated currency exchange activities are prevalent in the vicinity of Macao's casinos. Earlier in January, the Public Security Police Department detained a man suspected of conducting thousands of dollars worth of unauthorized currency trades involving Hong Kong and Mainland Chinese tender near major gaming venues. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   A former Caesars Palace staff member has filed a lawsuit against the casino, claiming his race was the primary reason for his firing. Felton Davis, who is African-American, worked at the Las Vegas-based Caesars Palace hotel and casino for 13 years, spanning from May 2012 through October 2025. The casino suspended and subsequently fired him last year, citing claims that he was taking “unlimited breaks.” Other Staff Members Spared Disciplinary Action The lawsuit notes that Davis refutes these claims. It further argues that even if Davis had taken breaks, his colleagues were doing the same. “Davis’s coworkers, Melissa Mara and Jason Lee, participated in identical or comparable overtime habits but faced no suspension, disciplinary measures, or termination,” the complaint alleges. Furthermore, the filing mentions that his suspension stemmed from “a shift during which his colleague Melissa Mara departed early, while Davis remained to clean and restock his mobile bar.” HR Refuses to Show Camera Footage During a disciplinary meeting, Human Resources representative Anna Gutierrez claimed she had observed Davis taking unauthorized breaks. When Davis requested to view the surveillance footage, she denied the request. The lawsuit asserts that this refusal serves as evidence that the grounds for his termination were manufactured and that the decision was actually racially motivated. Although Davis was the most senior of the three employees, the lawsuit does not identify this as a factor in his firing. Instead, it contends, “There was no valid business justification for firing Davis while keeping less senior staff members who participated in the same behavior.” “Caesars engaged in intentional racial discrimination against Davis by firing him while keeping non-African American employees in similar positions who performed the same actions,” the complaint states. Another Casino Employee Alleges Racial Discrimination A comparable legal action was initiated in Pennsylvania this past February. In that instance, however, the plaintiff alleged he was “repeatedly demeaned for being white.” Similar to Davis, that employee alleged that Mount Airy Casino fabricated claims to orchestrate his termination. Both individuals have since secured new jobs. Nevertheless, Davis is pursuing damages from Caesars, noting that his current position as a security guard at Allegiant Stadium “does not offer the same level of pay or benefits he earned at Caesars.” Beyond the financial impact of his termination, he asserts that the firing has resulted in “emotional distress, mental anguish, and physical symptoms, including migraine headaches.” 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 Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office executed a raid on an illicit gaming arcade, confiscating 66 slot machines and taking two people into custody. Amid ongoing crackdowns across Florida, former Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez made a court appearance regarding allegations of aiding illegal gambling operations in the state. Authorities from the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office reported the Monday arrests of Mohamed Belyaqout and Mabielka C. Cumbrera. Officials state the pair face charges for operating a gambling house and possessing slot machines. Belyaqout was apprehended at Slot 24/7 on 5709 S. Beneva Road in Sarasota. In addition to the slot machines, an undisclosed sum of money was seized. The business had been served a cease-and-desist order by the sheriff's office the previous year, which it disregarded. “Our collaboration with the FGCC will persist to ensure these unlawful gambling operations are held responsible and closed,” stated Sheriff Hoffman. The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) maintains its vigorous campaign against unlawful gaming statewide. Last month, the agency headed Operation Reel of Fortune, which saw the confiscation of 625 slot machines and more than $350,000 in cash. Patrons Allege Harassment From Staff The establishment seems to have been running for a period, though under different identities. The address is listed on Google as The Spot Social Club. Google reviews from as far back as two years allege harassment by staff during gameplay. One reviewer stated she spent between $200 and $500 daily at the arcade before employees told her to leave for “touching the machines on the screens and tapping them softly.” She claims the owner brought on a new employee who consistently harassed patrons. The review further noted, “This man is very controlling about how he prefers to instruct people on playing and spending their money.” A different user lamented being “Kicked out for playing a machine that was left unattended.” It is unknown whether management has shifted since these reviews were posted two years ago. The fight against illegal gaming in Florida has been likened to a game of whac-a-mole, with operations often resurfacing at the same addresses under fresh names. Sheriff Lopez Appears in Court As an illustration, Hot Seats, a venue closed during the operation that resulted in Sheriff Lopez's arrest, promptly resumed business. It was targeted again in a January raid. Lopez is alleged to have enabled an illegal gambling scheme that produced up to $21 million. He appeared in court on Tuesday for the first time since being released on bail last year. Two witnesses for the state, Kyle Henry and Douglas Ford, were questioned. Ford, once a driver for Lopez, allegedly “winked at the former Sheriff Tuesday before testifying.” Lopez Faces Charges as Others Agree to Plea Deals Ford testified that he and Henry served as a “protection detail” for the illegal gambling enterprises. He was arrested on separate charges in 2024, accused of hacking into the criminal justice academy’s camera system to surveil his girlfriend. He accepted a plea deal in that matter, resulting in an initial 24-month probation sentence, which was subsequently dismissed. Whether this deal required testimony against Lopez remains uncertain. Henry, for his part, was arrested last year on charges of unauthorized access to an electronic device. His case is still open. It is also not clear if he has arranged a deal to serve as a witness. Five other individuals have accepted plea agreements in the case, among them Lopez's estranged wife, Robin Lopez. She likewise received a 24-month probation sentence. The ex-Sheriff is now the sole defendant. Prosecutors claim Lopez personally obtained between $600,000 and $700,000 in cash from the illegal gambling profits. He has entered a plea of not guilty. Florida legislators have put forward tighter rules for gaming centers intended to bolster the FGCC's efforts against such businesses. SB1580 appeared to be advancing, having passed the Senate and then the House with changes. Yet, the Senate did not have sufficient time to reconsider the revised bill, causing it to expire last month. 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) -   Legislators in Tennessee and Maryland have been reviewing bills this week aimed at explicitly prohibiting sweepstakes casinos. In Tennessee, a House committee has greenlit a bill that will now advance to a final committee before a full chamber vote. Meanwhile, in Maryland, a Senate committee held a hearing—without taking a vote—on a bill that has already cleared the House. Tennessee House Committee Approves Ban Tennessee’s House State & Local Government Committee approved HB 1885 in a 21-to-0 vote, with one representative abstaining. Last month, the House Departments & Agencies Subcommittee voted unanimously in favor of the bill. It will next move to the Finance, Ways & Means Committee; if approved there, it will proceed to a full vote on the House floor. The legislation defines an online sweepstakes game as a platform that utilizes a virtual-currency system allowing players to engage in “gambling of any kind, including, but not limited to, casino-style gaming such as slot machines, video poker, table games, lottery games, bingo, or unlicensed sports wagering,” which can later be exchanged for “a prize, award, cash, or cash equivalent.” Should the bill pass, violators could face a fine of up to $15,000 per violation. Maryland Senate Hearing on HB 1226 In Maryland, the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee held a hearing on HB 1226. The House approved the legislation with minimal opposition on March 23, in a 135-1 vote. The bill similarly defines sweepstakes games as “a game, contest, or promotion that:(1) Utilizes a dual–currency system of payment allowing the player to exchange the currency for any prize, award, cash or cash equivalents, or chance to win any prize, award, cash or cash equivalents; and(2) Simulates any form of gambling, including:(3) Casino–style games, including slot machines, video poker, and table games such as blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker.” The committee has not yet scheduled a vote on the bill. A similar piece of legislation was introduced in the Senate in January, but it also stalled after an initial hearing. Maryland has taken steps to crack down on sweepstakes casinos. The City of Baltimore filed a lawsuit against five major operators last month, alleging the platforms are already violating state law. The bill would increase potential penalties, with offenders facing up to 3 years in prison. The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency supports the stricter rules. The agency has previously sent cease-and-desist letters to operators, including VGW. However, the company—which runs Chumba Casino, Luckyland Slots, and Global Poker—failed to comply, leading to a second round of letters being sent in November. Even so, the platforms still appear accessible in the state. Most Platforms Block Access in Maryland & Tennessee A total of 33 operators, including some of those sued by Baltimore (High 5, Stake, Pulsz, and McLuck), have exited Maryland. Tennessee has also largely driven out operators, following a wave of cease-and-desist letters from the state’s Attorney General last year. Yet, some remain active. If the bills pass in both states, it would further empower gambling regulators to take action against any companies that continue to 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.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson has approved legislation that lifts the prohibition against wagering on in-state college teams at tribal sportsbooks. The governor signed the bill on March 30, and it will become active on June 11. This marks the first opportunity since sports betting was legalized in Washington in 2020 for fans to legally bet on local teams such as the University of Washington and Gonzaga University. The legislation stipulates that betting remains confined to tribal casino properties, requiring patrons to be physically present to place a wager. Although the law broadens the state's sports betting market, it upholds a number of restrictions designed to protect integrity. For instance, proposition bets on individual players, as well as bets on coaching decisions and officiating, continue to be forbidden. Due to these limitations, the change represents a measured expansion of the market rather than a full liberalization. Legislators characterized the measure as a way to strengthen the regulated sports betting industry while confining gambling to a supervised setting. Law Places Strict Limits on Player Prop Bets A defining feature of the law is its specific prohibitions. Even with the new legality of betting on college sports, wagers cannot be placed on "the performance or nonperformance of any specifically named individual participant" who is enrolled at a Washington college or university. While these individual player prop bets are banned, the law permits "portion-of-game" betting, which involves wagers on discrete segments of a contest, like the halftime score or the result of a single quarter. This ensures that many popular bet types remain available without focusing on an individual student-athlete. Supporters of the measure applauded it, noting that residents were already betting on local teams through unregulated offshore websites. By legalizing collegiate betting, the state can now recapture that revenue and offer a safer, regulated environment for bettors. The law also introduces enhanced integrity measures. Knowingly threatening a sports official, coach, or participant over a wager-related incident is now classified as a gross misdemeanor, and anyone found guilty will be prohibited from placing sports bets. NCAA Wants Player Prop Bets Banned The law's restrictions on wagering tied to a college athlete's individual performance align with a wider national discussion about college betting, where player prop bets are facing greater examination due to harassment and integrity issues. In January, coinciding with the unsealing of indictments in a college basketball point-shaving scandal, the NCAA dispatched a letter to state regulators urging a ban on prop bets for college athletes. The association warned that such wagers elevate the risks of spot-fixing, insider information solicitation, and direct harassment of players. A recent survey supports the NCAA's concerns about player harassment. The latest NCAA Student-Athlete Needs, Aspirations and Perspectives survey indicated that almost half of men’s Division I basketball players have faced abuse linked to betting. Although Washington's law does not prohibit all proposition bets, it specifically bans the types of wagers most likely to subject student-athletes, coaches, and officials to direct pressure. 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.