作者： nicole

(AsiaGameHub) -   South Dakota’s Republican Governor Larry Rhoden has signed Senate Bill 102, a measure that alters how gambling tax revenue from Deadwood is distributed. This revision shifts a portion of funds from the state to the city of Deadwood—South Dakota’s only non-tribal location where full casino-style gambling is allowed. Governor Signs New Law The new legislation will set a cap on Deadwood’s taxable gaming revenue, which exceeded $150 million last year. A city historic preservation official noted that some of these funds will be redirected toward initiatives like road upgrades, broader infrastructure projects, and efforts to expand industries beyond gaming. Rhoden stated that this change will help ensure Deadwood can continue to grow, thrive, and contribute to South Dakota’s economy. Deadwood has historically relied heavily on its gaming sector, which saw significant growth in 2023 and 2024. The new bill aims to diversify the local economy by channeling gaming revenue into infrastructure and supporting the growth of non-casino businesses. Estimates suggest the measure could boost Deadwood’s annual budget by approximately $800,000. Where Will the New Revenue Go? Currently, most of the revenue is allocated among several recipients, including Deadwood’s historic preservation fund, the state tourism fund, the state Gaming Commission, the state general fund, Lawrence County, a statewide historical grant fund, and a state gambling addiction program. Deadwood’s share from this initial distribution is capped at $6.8 million. Once these allocations are made, 70% of the remaining revenue goes to the state general fund, while the remaining 30% is split between local governments in Lawrence County and historic preservation efforts in Deadwood. Under the new law, Deadwood’s $6.8 million cap in the first phase will be removed, and the distribution of remaining funds will be adjusted. The updated formula directs 71% to Deadwood’s historic preservation efforts, 25% to the state general fund, and the rest to other municipalities in Lawrence County and the Lead-Deadwood School District. It should also be noted that Gov. Rhoden signed House Bill 1215, which allows counties and cities to issue licenses for cigar bars. Previously, in 2010, South Dakota voters upheld a ban on smoking inside public buildings, restaurants, casinos, and bars. The ban permitted the three existing cigar bars in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and Deadwood to stay open, provided they met specific requirements. However, the new law now gives cities and counties the authority to issue licenses for additional cigar bars. 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 jackpots for both the Mega Millions and Powerball lotteries went unclaimed in the drawings held on Friday and Saturday, respectively. As a new week of lottery gaming commences, players are hoping to secure a win. Mega Millions Jackpot Rolls Over to $60M The Mega Millions drawing on Friday concluded without a jackpot winner. The game has experienced a brief pause in jackpot wins, which is understandable given that two major prizes were claimed in close succession recently. For context, a $533 million grand prize was won on March 10, making an Illinois player half a billion dollars richer. Then, just two drawings later, an Ohio player surprisingly claimed the $60 million prize from the March 17 drawing. However, the March 20 drawing did not result in another jackpot winner. Additionally, no player managed to win the game’s second-tier prize by matching the five white numbers. The winning numbers for the March 20 drawing were 11, 20, 51, 55, and 63, plus the gold Mega Ball 4. Several players did successfully match four white numbers and the Mega Ball to win the third-tier prize. Four of these players each won $20,000 with a 2X multiplier, while two others took home $30,000 each thanks to a 3X multiplier. The jackpot has now reached $60 million for the Tuesday drawing, with a cash option of $27 million. Powerball Jackpot Climbs to $133M for Monday Drawing Meanwhile, the Powerball jackpot has now increased to $133 million, offering a one-time lump sum option of $60.3 million. The next drawing is scheduled to occur later today. The previous drawing, held last Saturday, saw no one win either the jackpot or the game’s second-tier prize of $1 million (or more, depending on Power Play). Nevertheless, a significant 20 players matched four white numbers and the Powerball to win the third-tier prize. This included fifteen players who each received $50,000, as well as five who won $100,000 instead, thanks to Power Play. The Power Play multiplier was 2X for the March 21 drawing. The winning numbers for that drawing were 12, 28, 26, 41, and 59, plus the Powerball 2. Had a player matched all of these numbers, they would have won $123 million or $55.8 million, depending on whether they chose the annuity or the one-time payment. The upcoming Powerball drawing will take place within a few hours of this publication. 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) -   SBC has revealed the finalists for the 2026 SBC Awards Europe, which will be held at Xara Lodge in Malta on Thursday, April 30. Wrapping up the final day of SBC Summit Malta 2026, the ceremony will gather 400 industry professionals to honor excellence in the European betting and gaming sector. This year’s awards include 35 categories that recognize exceptional accomplishments from operators, affiliates, industry leaders, game developers, and other suppliers. The Betsson Group tops the shortlist with seven nominations, closely followed by Sportradar with six. “Success in this industry goes beyond revenue—it’s defined by resilience, creativity, and a willingness to take risks,” stated SBC Founder and CEO Rasmus Sojmark. “The SBC Awards Europe don’t honor the largest companies, but the boldest. I’d like to send a massive congratulations to every shortlisted company.” In the operator categories, Novibet aims to defend its titles for ‘Operator Innovation in Gaming’ and ‘Sportsbook Operator of the Year’. Meanwhile, 1xBet is competing against GG.BET, Allwyn, and Peter & Sons to keep the ‘Marketing Campaign and Sponsorship of the Year’ award. Elsewhere, Megapari Partners, Parimatch Affiliates, and Vegas Legends will compete against defending champions Betsson Group Affiliates for the ‘Best Affiliate Program’ award. Alea is seeking to retain the ‘Employer of the Year’ title, competing against Altenar, BETBY, GR8 Tech, and SOFTSWISS. Highlighting the industry’s focus on player protection, nominees for ‘Socially Responsible Initiative of the Year’ include 8888, EPIC Global Solutions, Play’n GO, and Stars Partners. In the ‘SlotCatalog’ categories, Pragmatic Play and Hacksaw Gaming aim to defend their titles as ‘Game Studio of the Year – Large’ and ‘Game Studio of the Year – Medium’. Gamzix, Octoplay, Penguin King, and Dream Play are among those vying for the ‘Game Studio of the Year – Small’ award. The much-awaited ‘Leader of the Year’ and ‘Manager of the Year’ awards will remain a secret until the event, with nominees and winners announced live during the ceremony. In the ‘Game Developer Award’ categories, Bragg Gaming Group, Evoplay, Funky Games, and TaDa Gaming have all received nominations in multiple categories. In the affiliate categories, Flashscore and Casino Guru hope to keep their titles for ‘Sports Affiliate of the Year’ and ‘Casino Affiliate of the Year’, respectively. They compete against the likes of Catena Media, BETANDEAL, Gentoo Media, Better Collective, Clever Advertising, and MediaTroopers. In the supplier categories, BetConstruct and Sportradar lead with four nominations each, followed by Delasport and Kanggiten with three each. Trustly could have a standout night, earning nominations for both ‘Compliance & KYC Partner of the Year’ and ‘Payment Solution of the Year’. They’ll compete against BridgerPay, Paysecure, Paytently, BetComply, and GBG. The evening will also shine a light on emerging talent via four dedicated Rising Star awards, which recognize top operators and suppliers making waves in casino and sports betting. The full list of shortlisted companies can be found on the SBC Awards Europe website. Please be aware that a separate ticket is needed to attend the ceremony. Table and ticket options are available here. Interested in attending SBC Summit Malta? For groups of three or more, buy our Group Pass ticket, which gives you access to three days of networking, exhibitions, and conference content for a discounted €400 per person—saving €200 off the standard ticket price. You can also buy our ‘Expo Plus Pass’ for €150, which provides access solely to the conference and exhibition. Operators and affiliates may apply for a free pass here. 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) -   Maryland legislators are persisting in their campaign to curb the contentious sweepstakes industry by moving forward with legislation that imposes more rigorous constraints. This includes HB 295, which has successfully cleared the House, and HB 1226, which has also seen progress. HB 295 Secured Strong Approval by House Members HB 295 recently garnered a decisive 105-24 vote in the Maryland House, enabling it to move to the Senate as the legislative session proceeds. The proposed legislation aims to implement more precise language that explicitly prohibits sweepstakes-based casinos. For context, sweepstakes are a gaming category that employs a dual-currency model, enabling users to participate using virtual tokens instead of direct cash. Although these platforms permit users to buy virtual currency with real money, operators argue that the specific mechanics of these games distinguish them from the legal definition of gambling. Conversely, HB 295 would establish a criminal ban on any gaming platform that mimics casino-style play and “utilizes multiple currency systems of payment allowing the player to exchange the currency for any prize or award or cash or cash equivalents.” The legislation provides an exemption for games that offer only non-monetary rewards. Should the bill be enacted, offenders could face up to three years of incarceration and penalties between $10,000 and $100,000. HB 1226 Must Pass Its Third Hearing Today If It Is to Advance Simultaneously, another measure, HB 1226, aims to eliminate sweepstakes casinos. This bill seeks to outlaw illicit online gambling and empower local authorities to issue cease-and-desist mandates to operators in violation. Furthermore, regulators would be authorized to implement payment and IP blocking measures to obstruct unauthorized online gaming activities. Although the bill has cleared its second reading, it must accelerate its progress to succeed. With Maryland’s crossover deadline set for today, HB 1226 is required to clear its third reading by the end of the day. If HB 1226 is successful, the Senate will deliberate on the future of both bills. Should either be signed into law, Maryland would join the growing list of states that have completely rejected the controversial sweepstakes model. Minnesota is also currently exploring legislation that would criminalize the operation of sweepstakes casinos. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   The integration of AI and extensive data processing is transforming sports betting trading, as B2B providers transition from offering standardized markets to delivering personalized, real-time services. The emphasis has shifted from broad pricing models to providing customized betting options, informed by live data and player behavior. For operators, this implies competing on relevance as much as on pricing. Trading teams are now expected to create and manage a significantly wider array of markets, utilizing automated models to process live data and react instantly to in-play events. The capacity to manage such vast volumes of data is becoming a critical determinant of product quality and customer retention. During the recent ICE Barcelona conference, Thomas Johnson, Head of Trading at DATA.BET, commented that access to data has largely removed limitations on market creation. “The quantity of markets we can provide is almost limitless,” he explained. “If a customer desires a specific bet, we can generate it because the necessary data exists. It is no longer a generic offering. To retain players, you must provide what they want.” To facilitate this, DATA.BET employs a hybrid trading framework. AI systems continuously manage pricing, risk, and market updates, while human traders oversee performance and intervene during volatile situations. Many of these traders possess professional esports or sports backgrounds, contributing valuable context that automated systems might miss. This methodology enables providers to scale their output without compromising risk control. For B2B clients, this translates to more stable pricing, broader market coverage, and reduced operational pressure on their internal teams. The model is anticipated to undergo further testing during major events, such as the upcoming summer World Cup. Johnson noted that DATA.BET is concentrating on features like picture-in-play overlays, expanded live betting markets, and more detailed player proposition data. These features are designed to enhance engagement and support longer sessions, while also creating cross-selling opportunities between traditional sports and esports. Otto further stated that the company’s background in esports trading provides a distinct advantage when expanding into conventional sports. Esports markets are characterized by their speed and volatility, demanding robust risk systems. Applying this experience to football and other major sports helps improve stability for operators. This cross-vertical approach is also influencing DATA.BET’s expansion strategies. The company is targeting growth in Latin America, following a recent partnership in Brazil. The region demonstrates strong demand across both football and esports, making it a key area of focus for 2026. 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 man was fatally shot after brandishing a firearm when confronted by law enforcement. The incident occurred in the parking lot of WinStar Casino in Thackerville, Oklahoma. Authorities Report Victim Threatened Officers with a Firearm On March 19, the Chickasaw Lighthorse Police Department received information about an individual experiencing suicidal ideation on WinStar Casino grounds. According to the official report from the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI), the person was identified as 41-year-old Kevin Odom. Officers were immediately sent to the location. They found the man around 1:45 pm in the casino parking lot. Police attempted to communicate with the reportedly suicidal individual, but he drew a weapon. An officer subsequently discharged their weapon, striking Odom. He sustained injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The OSBI report confirmed that no other individuals were injured during the incident. The investigation remains active and is being conducted jointly by the OSBI, Chickasaw Lighthorse Police Department, WinStar Casino, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The Love County Sheriff's Office released a statement confirming the shooting and assuring residents that public safety is not at risk. Chief Palmer of the Chickasaw Lighthorse Police has assured me that the public faces no continuing danger. All additional questions should be referred to the Chickasaw Lighthorse Police, who are spearheading the investigation alongside the OSBI. Sheriff Cumberledge Regrettably, Not an Isolated Casino-Related Shooting Incident Tragically, this is not the sole shooting incident to occur near a casino property in 2026. In the previous month, a deadly shooting occurred just outside Bally's Kansas City Casino, resulting in the death of an 18-year-old. The incident stemmed from an altercation involving several individuals that began inside the casino. Several days afterward, a mother who was in Las Vegas for a dance competition fatally shot her daughter before committing suicide. 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) -   Lexington County police and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division have arrested 51-year-old W. L. H. Sr., whom they suspect ran an illegal gambling operation.  The arrest took place on March 9, 2026, and the man was immediately charged with possession of an illegal gambling machine—described as “unlawful possession and operation of a slot, video, vending machine or gambling device and unlawful games and betting.”  This final charge is significant because while police can technically bring unlawful betting charges, they rarely do so. The arrest happened a week after a search warrant was executed on March 2. 18 Gambling Machines Seized as Part of the Operation  During the search, police found 18 gambling machines at the suspect’s home—specifically Pot O Gold devices. These machines can run a range of games of chance, including keno, blackjack, and casino-style poker.  South Carolina has been fairly conservative in its gambling regulation, which has led to the rise of underground operations like the one run by H. Sr.  In February, Senate Bill 444 attempted to introduce online sports betting regulation in the state, but it faced opposition from lawmakers.  In-state sports betting is available at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort in Cherokee, Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River in Murphy, and Catawba Two Kings Casino in Kings Mountain. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   This Friday, SBC’s Charity Boxing Championship will be live-streamed, with 12 white-collar competitors from the gaming industry stepping into the ring to compete for personal pride, company bragging rights, and a meaningful cause. The complete fight card for the evening will be viewable live through a dedicated stream provided by Gr8Tech, with the first fighter entering the ring scheduled for 9pm GMT—enabling those who can’t attend to follow the action as it happens. Taking place at London Hilton Park Lane this Friday, the championship will gather more than 500 guests for an exclusive black-tie affair that includes a champagne reception, three-course dinner, charity auction, and after-party. At its heart, the event supports the Oliver’s Wish Foundation—a charity that funds children’s organizations focused on research and supporting families dealing with loss—with support from Platinum Sponsor Gamingtec and numerous other partners. Rasmus Sojmark, Founder and CEO of SBC, stated: “SBC’s Charity Boxing Championship has become a standout event in the gaming industry’s calendar. It’s not just an opportunity for representatives from different companies to earn bragging rights—we also get to raise funds for the Oliver’s Wish Foundation and its crucial work. “The dedication shown by this year’s fighters has been outstanding. Kudos to each one of them for stepping into the ring. Their readiness to step outside their comfort zones for a worthy cause is what makes this event so impactful.” The 12 fighters are the centerpiece of the event—their months of hard work, dedication, and training will come to a head this Friday as they step into the ring to challenge themselves. The fight card is as follows:  Kai Hill (Dennis & Dyer) vs Majid Rodriguez (Product Manager, Super) Ahmed Baker (Chief Commercial Officer, Incentive Games) vs Rory Kimber (Commercial Director, Lucky Streak) Jessica Lee-Green (Partnership Team Manager, Games Global) vs Ferial Abarghooie (Director Of Account Management, G Games) Tamas Kusztos (Co-Founder, SharedLuck) vs Sapar Karyagdyyev (Founder, GamingTec) Ben Cleminson (CEO, Square in the Air) vs Rob Fell (CEO, RiskCherry) Nikki Timmins (Head of Account Management, Blue Sakura Solutions) vs Lex Scott (VP Gaming, ITV) The evening will kick off with a drinks reception and seated dinner, leading up to the first three fights. A charity auction—with all proceeds going to the Oliver’s Wish Foundation—will follow, before the final three bouts take the spotlight. The event will conclude with an after-party. To contribute to the Oliver’s Wish Foundation and learn more about its mission, visit: www.justgiving.com/charity/oliverswishfoundation  For additional details—including table bookings—visit sbcevents.com/sbc-charity-boxing-championship or reach out to Paul Mills at paul@sbcgaming.com 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) -   James Lovell, co-founder and Director of Welsh bookmaker DragonBet, has strongly criticised the government's recent decision to outlaw greyhound racing. Lovell described the move as "a huge shame," asserting that it was not supported by concrete evidence but rather driven by a political agenda that overlooks an entire sport which has significantly prioritized animal welfare. “For many people, this sport is a way of life, built around people who care deeply for their dogs and have dedicated their lives to them,” Lovell stated. He also accused the government of inconsistency, arguing that the criticisms leveled against greyhound racing could equally apply to horse racing, a sport currently thriving in Wales. Currently, Wales has three active horse racing venues: Bangor-on-Dee, Chepstow, and Ffos Las. In contrast, there is only one operational greyhound track, the Valley Greyhound Stadium in Ystrad Mynach, Hengoed. “At a time when horse racing in Wales is achieving real success and giving people something to be proud of, it is fair to ask where this ends. Today it is greyhound racing – tomorrow, what sport involving animals is next?,” DragonBet’s Director concluded. As a reminder, Wales’ Senedd voted in favor of a proposal to ban greyhound racing, citing animal welfare concerns. The prohibition is set to take effect on April 1, 2027, with a three-year transition period until April 1, 2030, for all stakeholders to adapt to the changes. The decision, like that affecting DragonBet, has faced considerable opposition, notably from the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) and its Chief Executive Officer, Mark Bird. Echoing Lovell's sentiments, Bird expressed his disappointment with the government's decision, adding: “The only thing this Bill will do is destroy people’s jobs, family-run businesses and community touchpoints not to mention cause significant loss to the Welsh economy.” Currently, Wales and Scotland are the only two countries in the UK to have officially banned greyhound racing, with both bans being voted on the same day. Greyhound racing has not been conducted in Scotland since its last regulated track in Fife closed in 2019. The GBGB has, predictably, voiced strong opposition to both bans. Commenting on the Scottish ban last week, Bird criticized the bill as ‘unevidenced, illogical and will help no-one in Scotland – least of all greyhounds’. Globally, the sport can still be legally organized in the US, Australia, Ireland, England, and Northern Ireland. New Zealand is also set to ban it in 2025. 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) -   Analysts anticipate a surge in casino acquisition and merger activity, following reports that Caesars is considering a takeover bid. A Period of Strong M&A Activity Might Be on the Horizon Caesars is reportedly contemplating selling its business, with Tilman Fertitta and Carl Icahn identified as potential acquirers. In light of this, Barry Jones, Managing Director at Truist Securities, and John DeCree, Director of Equity Research at CBRE, have projected an increase in M&A activity across the broader casino sector. As reported by CDC Gaming, DeCree highlighted that the rumored Caesars takeover remains highly speculative. He noted that individuals familiar with the situation believe that if a deal were to materialize, the existing Caesars leadership would likely remain in place, resulting in minimal operational changes for the company. Jonas commented that a potential Caesars takeover could trigger a period of heightened M&A activity, as other company boards might be motivated to explore similar takeover offers. DeCree concurred that the gaming sector could experience increased M&A, expressing optimism about a Caesars deal due to the company's diverse portfolio and the current "near record lows" in interest rates and spreads for large corporations. Going Private and Investing Abroad Are Viable Options Jonas suggested that some operators might opt to go private, prioritizing long-term success over short-term investor demands. He added that if stock valuations remain stable, more private transactions could occur, noting that many B2B companies in the gaming sector have already transitioned to private ownership. DeCree pointed out that acquisitions of The Mirage and Venetian were made by private entities, but emphasized that such transactions require substantial capital. He also noted that companies with significant capital often find targeting Las Vegas challenging, leading them to focus on emerging markets, citing MGM Osaka and Wynn Al Marjan as prominent examples. Las Vegas Remains of Key Importance Jonas stated that most casino companies would desire a presence in Las Vegas, though the extent of property ownership remains a key consideration. DeCree referenced Hard Rock's redevelopment of The Mirage, which involved a multi-year closure, as a significant recent development. However, Jonas characterized Hard Rock as an "unconventional buyer" and suggested that while redeveloping lower-tier Vegas properties is logical, it requires specific types of buyers. Furthermore, Jonas noted that not all Las Vegas investments yield immediate strong returns, citing the challenges faced by Fontainebleau and Resorts World in achieving their projected performance. Despite any slowdown on the Las Vegas Strip, Jonas indicated that the local market has not been significantly impacted, suggesting that investments in the city remain viable. 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) -   Betr, the online social casino platform, has now launched fully across 30 states in the United States amid increasing industry oversight, marking the company's latest product offering. The brand's co-founder and primary promoter, Jake Paul, a YouTuber turned boxer, has been actively marketing the platform and recently verified the announcement via a post on social media platform X. The massive days just keep coming for @betr We just launched the Betr Social Casino in 30+ states https://t.co/eUBwoGgMPB— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) March 17, 2026 The Betr brand has experienced rapid growth and has diversified into multiple verticals over time. The casino product represents the latest addition to its portfolio, joining existing offerings such as Betr Arcade, Betr Social Sportsbook, and Betr Picks. The company appears poised for further expansion, taking inspiration from DraftKings' approach, as Jake Paul has hinted at the development of a super app that would consolidate all products under one umbrella and potentially incorporate prediction markets in the near future. "We've definitely established a first-mover advantage with our super-app approach. Through our social casino, we'll maintain an edge by offering a casino-style product available nationwide. Modern consumers don't want to download five to seven separate apps with different wallets—it's simply too cumbersome," Jake Paul stated during his attendance at the Next Summit: New York, according to media reports. Both social online casinos and prediction markets are encountering significant regulatory and operational hurdles. Minnesota is currently advocating for prohibition of social casinos, with particular focus on the sweepstakes model. Indiana has likewise enacted legislation that outlaws the sweepstakes model. Prediction markets are also experiencing resistance, as evidenced by a recent ruling in Nevada that resulted in the temporary halt of Kalshi products in that state. Although regulators appear to favor supporting the prediction market sector, advocacy groups like Gambling Is Not Investing and proposed legislation such as the Bets Off Act are highlighting the growing resistance to the industry. This represents just one of multiple legislative initiatives targeting the sector. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   On Friday, March 20, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) submitted a formal complaint to a federal court, requesting that DraftKings cease using the “March Madness” branding. The filing contends that the sportsbook should discontinue its use of registered trademarks associated with the NCAA’s men’s and women’s basketball tournaments. NCAA Says DraftKings Uses Its Trademarked Brands The NCAA has identified specific names and branding that DraftKings must avoid, seeking legal prohibition of their use. These include “March Madness,” “Final Four,” “ Elite Eight,” and “Sweet Sixteen,” which refer to different stages of the competition that generates massive overall gambling revenue. The complaint further stipulates that these terms should be prohibited from appearing in the company’s sports betting offerings, promotional activities, or marketing materials. The NCAA elaborated on the matter in its filing: “Just before the Tournaments began, DraftKings intentionally embraced and prominently deployed the NCAA’s iconic basketball trademarks, along with deceptively similar variants, to exploit and appropriate the considerable goodwill, recognition, and consumer confidence those Marks represent at the exact time of maximum public interest.” The NCAA contended that DraftKings lacked any legitimate authority to integrate the tournament branding and imagery into its public-facing websites and applications, thereby “intentionally intensifying consumer confusion and cementing a misleading connection or sponsorship affiliation with the NCAA to persistently profit from the Association’s established reputation.” DraftKings has challenged the complaint and its particular structure, asserting that the company never meant to employ – nor actually utilized – the “March Madness” branding, but instead applied it as “plain text” and as a “ fair use,” making comparisons to how other competitions are presented. DraftKings Objects, Says Fair Use “This constitutes protected speech under the First Amendment and does not infringe upon any brand’s trademark. We are confident the courts will reject this injunction request,” the company maintained. The NCAA has demanded that this usage cease, as it subjects millions of vulnerable sports enthusiasts and, importantly, college students and young adults to the risks of gambling. “[They are] exposed to the false suggestion that the Association has authorized or endorsed DraftKings’ gambling platform,” the NCAA concluded.The NCAA has been seeking to protect athletes from betting-related abuse and minimize opportunities for match-fixing by urging gambling industry stakeholders to prohibit proposition betting on college-level games. 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 Partido dos Trabalhadores (PT) administration in Brazil has appointed Dario Durigan as its new Finance Minister. He will oversee fiscal and tax policy for the continent's biggest economy under President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. This Friday, Brazil's official gazette revealed extensive changes to the Ministry of the Economy and Finance (MEF), prompted by Fernando Haddad's choice to campaign for Governor of São Paulo state. This concludes Haddad's twenty-year role as a prominent member of Lula's PT Party, where he served in several governments and was most recently the designer of its fiscal and taxation reform plans. Rumors had grown in recent months that Lula would support 'Paulista Haddad', a native of São Paulo, to run for governor of his home state—a crucial political arena for the PT's national ambitions. São Paulo is seen as an essential victory in this year's elections. The PT aims to defeat the sitting governor, Tarcísio Gomes de Freitas of the Republicanos party, a major right-wing ally of ex-president Jair Bolsonaro, who currently commands a solid majority in the state. Although Haddad begins the contest as a long shot, his run is anticipated to boost his national standing. Campaigning under the PT flag in São Paulo, he will present himself as Lula's selected candidate to spearhead the government's electoral efforts and strategy across Brazil's 26 states. Dramatic shifts Durigan, the former Executive Secretary of the MEF, assumes the position at a pivotal time for Brazil's economy. He is projected to uphold continuity on "fiscal discipline and tax reform" as the country enters its electoral period this year. In 2026, the PT party's economic policies will likely face challenges from external factors, such as global energy disruptions, ongoing inflation threats, and trade tariffs enacted by the Trump administration. Haddad resigned from the ministry after managing a substantial transition period for the Treasury, guaranteeing the government's fiscal policy matched PT priorities in the wake of the Bolsonaro government's economic measures. As Finance Minister, Haddad was instrumental in creating the Brazil Bets Law (No. 14,790/2023), which established the regulatory structure for online gambling starting 1 January 2025. However, both Haddad and Lula have grown more disapproving of the betting system within its inaugural year. They characterize online gambling as an exploitative sector that preys on Brazilian consumers and weakens broader economic goals. In late 2025, Haddad advocated for doubling the tax on licensed betting operators to 24%, a plan that was derailed by PT ministers in Congress due to opposition from coalition and bloc allies. This failure compelled a rewrite of key elements in the PT government's 2026 Budget, which Lula reluctantly approved. Criticism of the Bets framework has become part of a wider political and fiscal story leading up to Brazil's general election on 4 October. Lula has already started campaigning for a potential fourth presidential term, escalating his rhetoric about raising taxes on "banks, betting, and billionaires"—encapsulated in the PT's "tres-Bs" slogan. Thus, the change in leadership at the Finance Ministry points not just to steadiness in economic management, but also to a wider realignment of Brazil's political scene, as tax policy, regulatory course, and election tactics become more closely linked before a decisive national vote. Currently, Lula is escalating his criticism of the Bets system, continuing to urge Congress and the Senate to alter its framework—mainly via higher taxes, increased licensing fees, and tougher advertising limits. Legislators have already shown their intent, with the Senate consenting to increase betting taxes to 18% by 2028. Meanwhile, discussions have temporarily halted the implementation of the CIDE 'technical services tax', which proponents want to levy on the deposits of betting license holders. Concurrently, suggestions concerning gambling advertising are still pending, varying from complete prohibitions to more specific limitations. Despite 2026 being an election year, the Brazil Bets system is predicted to see more changes, as promised by Congress and the Senate. Yet, the extent and final form of these reforms are still undecided, casting doubt on the regime's long-term path. Who will battle Lula? The electoral landscape is still unclear regarding which right-wing candidate will face Lula. With ex-President Bolsonaro under house arrest and barred from running, Brazil's right wing has not yet united behind a sole opponent. Rio Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, Jair's son, has risen as a frontrunner after obtaining his father's backing to head the Liberal Party (PL) ticket—though doubts persist about his campaign abilities. Rifts exist across the conservative field, with other appeals endorsing Tarcísio de Freitas as a 'unified right-wing candidate' or the unexpected option of Michelle Bolsonaro. 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) -   When most people visit a Las Vegas casino, the main things they usually hope for are a fun time and free drinks. But one player scored big by winning two jackpots last Wednesday—on the exact same game. During their session on the Mo Mo Mummy slot machine at the Virgin Hotels Las Vegas casino, the anonymous player won $21,150 with a $2.50 bet. Most people would say to walk away after a nice win—so you don’t lose what you’ve already earned while trying to win more—but it’s a good thing the player stuck around a little longer. Before long, the player hit another jackpot—this time for $34,000—when another jackpot came up on the very same machine during that same session. Total winnings added up to $55,150, and the player finally decided they’d had enough—walking away from the game with a jackpot story that’s easily one of the best to share. 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) -   888Africa has enhanced its Angolan operations by transitioning to a new platform through a turnkey partnership with EveryMatrix. As part of the deal, the company has moved from its former platform provider to EveryMatrix's core platform for both sports betting and casino gaming services. The operator formerly utilized FSB Technology's platform, which EveryMatrix purchased in 2024. Following a competitive evaluation, 888Africa opted to switch to EveryMatrix's turnkey platform, with the migration finalized last week. While FSB maintained a client base throughout Africa, EveryMatrix has invested heavily in its continental operations, notably by appointing Mark Schmidt as Managing Director for Africa. Sources suggest that 888Africa's decision to adopt EveryMatrix was driven by its expansion into casino offerings, with the platform's solution being described as highly robust. An EveryMatrix spokesperson stated: "The migration was executed progressively, with the Angola launch incorporating specific market requirements such as localization, payment systems, KYC procedures, CRM capabilities, and other regional necessities. Several components were interdependent, making sequential execution crucial." 888Africa maintains a strong presence across multiple established and developing African markets, including Angola, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique,Tanzania and Zambia. Under the leadership of Christopher Coyne, previously an executive at Paddy Power and The Stars Group, the operator aims to secure leading market positions and has strengthened its technological infrastructure to support this objective. In a LinkedIn post, the company's Vice President of Product and Operations Steven McIntosh commented: "Large-scale migrations are extremely challenging. Completing one within 10 weeks makes this achievement particularly remarkable. It involved millions of data points, intricate integrations, compliance requirements, and a cross-functional team working across numerous streams, all culminating in a single launch event. "In reality, this entailed months of planning, hundreds of support tickets, countless development dependencies, numerous edge cases, continuous coordination, and meetings—many meetings. While sleepless nights aren't listed in the project plan, they were certainly part of the process!" Southern African markets have attracted numerous operators in recent years, benefiting from robust regulation and populations familiar with sports betting. Although technology in the region has sometimes been criticized as inadequate, EveryMatrix believes it is driving sector modernization in these rapidly expanding markets. 888Africa anticipates being a primary beneficiary of this technological upgrade. Coyne remarked: "Our focus now is to establish our brand as a market leader in Angola, and that effort begins today. Angola represents a strategic and significant growth market for 888Africa, and we are enthusiastic about the opportunities we can pursue and accomplish there both now and in the coming years." 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) -   Agentic AI firm AxiumAI has rolled out its conversational interface AxChat for sportsbooks seeking to scale during international sporting events. The tool merges traditional menu-based navigation with direct natural-language interaction, helping players interpret matches, markets and outcomes in real time. Enabling instant transactions, AxChat offers personalized guidance that includes relevant deep-linked bets and a comprehensive overview of live events – a fit sportsbooks may find ideal for this year’s 2026 FIFA World Cup. AxChat displays contextual insights on games, players and competitions, delivering tailored recommendations for pre-match and in-play moments across all bet types. Paired with a bet builder feature, the solution aims to autonomously meet upsell and cross-sell needs. Looking briefly under the hood, AxChat connects conversations directly to the bet slip and user account, enabling one-click bets and providing a one-stop hub for managing bet history, payments, limits and active promotions. Additionally, AxChat is designed to work seamlessly with AxiumAI’s proprietary engagement engine Verso. AxiumAI focuses on building autonomous agent systems for the gambling sector, using real-time intelligence that can be deployed across an operator’s full stack simultaneously to drive efficient decision-making and execution. Sharing more on the newly launched AxChat, Adam Lewis, Chief Executive Officer at AxiumAI, said: “AxChat introduces a new UX paradigm for sportsbooks. The expanded World Cup brings more matches, unfamiliar teams and a surge in global recreational players – meaning traditional navigation alone no longer inspires audiences or supports confident betting decisions. “By letting players ask questions in their own words and receive instant, context-aware answers, AxChat removes friction when intent strikes. It gives players clarity and confidence, while providing operators a powerful, dynamic engagement layer that boosts interaction, deeper market exploration and higher pre-match and in-play NGR – without relying on bonus spending.” 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) -   Lucia Gando: SBC Noticias Lucía Gando, Editor of SBC Noticias, delves into the legal and regulatory details behind the Buenos Aires courts’ decision to ban Polymarket and other prediction market platforms across Argentina This ruling marks a setback for prediction market startups and their investors, while also sparking a wider debate about whether these platforms can gain a foothold in South America. On Tuesday, Argentina became the first South American country to enact a full ban on prediction market operations, following an investigation focused specifically on Polymarket. International media outlets have reported that Buenos Aires courts issued a “federal block” of the platform, sparked by a legal case filed by LOTBA, the Buenos Aires City Lottery. Media coverage has characterized this decision as a major blow to the global expansion ambitions of prediction market operators, adding to the growing wave of regulatory controversies across South America. This Argentine ban follows Kalshi’s launch in Brazil earlier this month, a move that was immediately challenged by established betting market players. Both industry groups and Brazilian authorities have stated there is no valid justification for Kalshi to operate in the country. As such, across both Europe and South America, expanding prediction market access has become a critical priority to reaffirm the products’ unique classification as derivative-based financial contracts — a designation made by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Buenos Aires Regulatory Intervention Buenos Aires courts have put a stop to the intended growth of prediction market venture backers. The key question the courts are posing is this: Is U.S. regulatory validation alone enough to justify launching prediction markets in South American jurisdictions, and what framework should be used to assess whether these platforms are viable and distinct from gambling operations? The Buenos Aires lottery regulator did not ask the courts to draw a clear distinction between prediction markets and other products; instead, it requested a comprehensive, systemic response to prediction markets and event-based contracts. The regulator’s case against Polymarket centered on the platform’s lack of adequate consumer protections. The authority believes enforcement action is warranted based on the public safety risks of engaging with unvetted digital platforms. LOTBA, acting in its role as a provincial gambling regulator, petitioned the courts to classify Polymarket’s activities as a violation of Article 301 bis of Argentina’s Penal Code, which prohibits the operation of unlicensed gambling services. The regulator’s argument is straightforward: no matter how much financial polish they have, prediction markets replicate the core mechanics of betting — users wager money on uncertain outcomes, prices reflect implied probabilities, and the platform facilitates these transactions. According to LOTBA, these features do more than blur the line between categories; they amplify risk significantly. The absence of effective safeguards, identity checks, age verification, and traceable payment controls turns these platforms into unlicensed gambling operations with minimal accountability and few protections for participants. Regulatory Environment Concerns Most importantly, the regulator did not limit its request to just Buenos Aires. Instead, it sought a nationwide intervention, arguing that a digital product with borderless reach cannot reasonably be contained within provincial boundaries. Fragmented oversight in this context amounts to no oversight at all. Argentina’s response, then, is less a formal rejection of financial innovation and more a practical judgment about the operating environment for these platforms. The question for regulators was not whether prediction markets could theoretically be classified as derivatives, but rather, given their widespread accessibility and total lack of proper controls, whether these platforms can even qualify or function in practice as gambling operations. Argentina’s Ruling Is Not a One-Size-Fits-All Solution Whether Buenos Aires’ regulatory logic will be adopted elsewhere remains an open question. Few South American jurisdictions combine Argentina’s patchwork of provincial licensing, coordinated lottery bodies, and aligned prosecutorial priorities. While the ruling may set a precedent, it will not be easy to replicate. For neighboring markets such as Brazil and Mexico, the dilemma remains unresolved: classify prediction markets as financial instruments and risk allowing regulatory arbitrage, or label them as gambling and risk stifling this emerging form of digital trading. For operators like Polymarket, expanding into additional Latin American markets remains possible — but it has become increasingly challenging and high-risk. Argentina has, at the very least, shifted the terms of the global debate. The issue is no longer just how to classify prediction markets, but how to regulate them within sprawling digital ecosystems. Whether other regions will follow suit will determine whether these platforms take root in Latin America or secure some form of market access, as prediction markets remain a marginalized segment for the time being. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. 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