Month: 2026-04

(AsiaGameHub) - Eventus International's Global Ambassador program has entered a thrilling new phase, gaining significant momentum as its search throughout Europe and Asia advances. After naming Margarita Cruz as Americas Ambassador and Geoffrey Muindi MCIM as Africa Ambassador, the team has dedicated recent months to collaborating with industry leaders to identify the ideal individuals to finalize this worldwide structure. This pursuit led Eventus to the 7th Annual SPiCE South Asia event, which took place from March 23 to 26, 2026, at the Shangri-La Colombo in Sri Lanka. It was through substantive discussions and genuine regional interaction at this forum that the subsequent development organically emerged. From Search to Selection in Asia During these conversations, it was evident that Asia required more than a mere representative. The region needed an individual with a deep comprehension of both the creative and business facets of the sector, capable of confidently managing the market's rapid pace and intricacies. We are thrilled to announce Priya Ahlawat as the Asia Ambassador for Eventus. Priya Ahlawat is the Founder of Jumping Play Studio and the Managing Director of Epic88 India, offering more than 15 years of practical expertise in gaming, leadership, and studio management. She has established a studio from scratch and guided teams within the demanding context of dynamic, high-expansion settings. Her key asset is her skill in harmonizing creative vision with commercial results, while simultaneously constructing teams that are both expandable and enduring. Beyond her professional role, Priya possesses an unmistakable vibrancy. Be it directing a team or enjoying the dance floor, she commands attention, energizing any space she enters with a demeanor that exudes both assurance and genuineness. Strengthening a Global Vision The Global Ambassador program was established to foster Eventus's expansion in crucial markets and to unite professionals across the industry spectrum, including regulators, operators, suppliers, investors, and technology partners. As the gaming industry progresses, Eventus International is committed to facilitating platforms for significant conversation, supported by data, technology, and progressive leadership. With ambassadors now representing the Americas, Africa, and Asia, the network is growing more robust, interconnected, and optimally equipped to foster cross-border cooperation. Leadership That Matters Priya's selection underscores the core purpose of this initiative. It goes beyond securing regional spokespeople to partnering with professionals who grasp market development dynamics and the requirements for responsible growth. Her background in both operational and creative execution, combined with her talent for forming and directing effective teams, renders her perfectly suited for this position. Looking Ahead With three ambassadors now appointed, Eventus is nearing the finish line for its global roster, with the European ambassador to be revealed shortly. The mission moves forward, driven by unwavering ambition. The assembly continues. 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 Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) has announced the funding it will provide to local authorities throughout England to aid in the reduction of gambling-related harms. Scheduled for the 2026–2027 financial year, OHID intends to allocate £12 million in specific funding to upper-tier local councils in England. Authorities have also been notified that an extra £12 million has been set aside by OHID for distribution in the 2027–2028 period. This financial support for councils is entirely backed by the New Statutory Levy on gambling licences. OHID assumed its role as the overseeing body for the prevention and treatment of problem gambling across England in April 2025. The direct financing of councils through the statutory levy marks a transition to a centralised NHS-led framework, replacing the prior voluntary system managed by GambleAware. To qualify for the funds under the new system, local councils are required to fulfil two compulsory conditions. OHID specified: “The conditions are to complete a maturity assessment survey (which provides a baseline assessment of their activity on gambling harms prevention, helping them monitor progress over time and identify and share innovative practice). “Complete a declaration of interest, including formal confirmation from the Director of Public Health that governance, decision-making and the use of levy funds are fully independent of gambling industry influence.” Allocation of funds OHID will disburse the funding through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which mandates that councils use the money exclusively for prevention activities. The distribution model, as explained by OHID, is based on a 50/50 split, with half determined by population size and the other half modified according to the area’s average Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) score. This formula prioritises areas with higher deprivation levels, with the goal of directing more funding per person to less developed regions that face greater risks of harm. OHID will oversee and assess this initial model, which serves as a starting point to collect more community-based data on gambling disorders. Based on this population and deprivation formula, the top funding amounts for 2026–2027 will go to: Birmingham (£332,000), Kent (£326,000), Essex (£289,000), Lancashire (£275,000) and Hampshire (£235,000). In the North West, funding is focused on major metropolitan/urban councils, with Lancashire (£275,000), Manchester (£167,000) and Liverpool (£140,000) receiving the most—allocations that correspond to areas of high population density and varied deprivation scores. In the North East, funding is distributed more uniformly among councils, with County Durham (£127,000) receiving the largest sum. Newcastle and Sunderland will each be allocated approximately £70,000. Although the total funding is less than in the North West, the region's high levels of deprivation increase the per-person funding weighting. London boroughs generally fall within a funding band of £50,000 to £90,000, a result the methodology attributes to a combination of high population density and a diverse mix of deprivation levels. Larger boroughs including Brent (£85,000), Ealing (£86,000) and Croydon (£85,000) are set to get larger sums, whereas wealthier areas such as Kensington & Chelsea (£28,000) and Richmond (£28,000) are at the bottom of the scale. A new chapter for the statutory levy This announcement also marks the completion of OHID's initial responsibilities as the guardian of the Statutory Levy, with the publication this week of its first list of third-sector organisations set to receive £25 million for specialised gambling harm treatment. The eagerly awaited list named the Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM) and GamCare as the two biggest funding recipients. Other initial beneficiaries of the levy are the Addiction Recovery Agency (£1.026m), Betknowmore (£2.99m), Citizens Advice Wokingham (£1.27m), Council for Voluntary Service Medway (£1.3m) and Gambling Harm UK (£1.25m). Political conflicts continue to impact UK gambling Although only four months have passed in 2026, UK politics has already seen a coalition of over 40 local authorities pressuring the government to step in and give councils more authority over gambling premises, alongside calls for an overhaul of local licensing rules. The “Take Back Control of Our High Streets” campaign is spearheaded by Muhammed Butt from Brent Council and Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, a collective of gambling reformers seeking stronger council powers over licensing and stricter advertising regulations. A central proposal is to create a single planning use class for gambling premises, designed to give councils more say over high-street developments. The coalition is also advocating for cumulative impact assessments, which would let local authorities consider area density and socio-economic factors when evaluating new licence applications. Nevertheless, despite increasing pressure, the government declared in late 2025 that it has “no plans to review” the ‘aim to permit’ principle of the Gambling Act 2005. The Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) affirms that its regulatory priority continues to be the implementation of the statutory levy and the creation of public health systems to assist vulnerable people and enhance service access. 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) - Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has confirmed that online gaming and wagering will be the “next topic to address” in an expanding push to implement age-based digital safeguards. These remarks, which are not new, follow the administration's headline proposal to prohibit social media access for those under 15, supported by mandatory age verification requirements for platforms from January 1, 2027. While the immediate focus is on social media, the direction is toward establishing a wider compliance perimeter around all digital products that pose youth exposure risks, including licensed betting and gaming. In an interview with infokids.gr, Mitsotakis identified gaming, online gambling, and artificial intelligence as the logical next steps for the Greek government after social media controls, explicitly linking future measures to existing enforcement gaps in gambling. He noted that although gambling is “typically prohibited under 21,” regulations are being circumvented, particularly with the global rise of the unregulated market. “It is being violated. Similar applications will also exist in online gambling, because now we can in legal gambling,” said Mitsotakis. “You will tell me there is also illegal, yes. But the majority is legal. So, I think we now have the technological tools to put in place a framework for the protection of children and adolescents. “And I repeat, we are not a paternalistic state, which can solve all the issues or interpersonal relationships between parents and children. But we are doing something that is important: we are now opening the conversation. “We have a framework that can be implemented, but most importantly we are enabling parents to have this conversation with children, not from a position of weakness.” The Greek PM also emphasized that “we now have the technological tools” to enforce age restrictions, potentially signaling a shift toward more rigorous security systems. Greek bodies making efforts Many organizations, including the government itself, have been persistent in their efforts to ensure player protection in the gambling sector, which has been inundated with black market operators and illegal gambling rings. The Hellenic National Committee on Bioethics and Technoethics recently highlighted that young people in the country face an excessively high risk of gambling exposure and urged for government action. Government data indicated that nearly 800,000 citizens engaged in illegal gambling in 2024, generating an estimated €1.67bn in turnover and depriving the state of approximately €400m in annual revenue, which has led to officials introducing a draft framework of “interventions required to strengthen the Greek state and economy against the threats of black market gambling.” As part of the bill, the Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP) will see its staff increase from 80 to 110, and the higher quality direct digital intervention powers hinted at in the aforementioned Mitsotakis interview will be introduced. Despite the clear issues with the black market and underage gambling in Greece, it is evident that the government is working extensively to combat these challenges. 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) - Latin America has emerged as a key growth hub for iGaming in the 2020s, and the broader region received a significant boost over the past 15 months with the launch of Brazil’s regulated iGaming sector. Unsurprisingly, this makes the region highly appealing for international operators looking to achieve their global growth goals. However, breaking into the market isn’t straightforward—especially if localization and careful planning aren’t central to the expansion strategy. 1xBet, a global operator holding more than 35 local licenses, is one such company that has expanded into Latin America in recent years. Simon Westbury, the company’s Strategic Advisor, noted that every operator encounters distinct hurdles when entering Latin America, but 1xBet can use its extensive global presence to accelerate user acquisition and build brand recognition. “We were aware of the challenges involved in entering this market,” Westbury told SBC Media during the SBC Summit Rio. “Our approach to regulated markets relies on our product offerings, digital marketing acquisition tools, and sponsorships—where permitted. “We bring over 18 years of global industry experience and serve three million monthly players, but we also integrate our global digital marketing expertise and tailor it to local market needs.” Healthy Markets Thrive on Competition High-potential markets draw global interest, leading to intense competition. This is great for consumers, who get a wide range of gambling platforms to choose from, but it puts pressure on operators competing for market share. Westbury embraces this pressure, pointing out that saturated markets foster a “survival of the fittest” environment. “We don’t ignore competition or fail to consider it, but economic principles tell us that in a crowded market, it’s survival of the fittest,” he stated. “As a global brand, our goal is always to lead the market, so we’re concentrating on our strengths—our global expertise—and how to adapt that locally to grow the 1xBet brand.” When entering new markets, operators often prioritize mass player acquisition through marketing campaigns, sponsorship deals, and bonus offers. However, there’s a critical point where acquisition spending only pays off if the operator has a solid player retention strategy. When queried about balancing acquisition and retention, Westbury emphasized that a flurry of acquisitions is useless if player churn rates are high. “Acquiring players is meaningless if you’re losing them just as quickly. Acquisition is a key part of our strategy, but retention—using our digital marketing tools to deliver personalized experiences that keep players engaged and satisfied—is just as vital.” Player Protection Leads 1xBet’s Latin American Strategy Westbury spoke with SBC during the week that part three of the International Player Safety Index—focused on Latin America—was launched. He’s discussed the report at length with SBC News in recent weeks, but in Rio, he cautioned that regulators need consistent player protection measures to sustain the positive momentum the region has seen over the past two years. “We’ve had a honeymoon phase, but as markets mature, we must ensure we’re offering players a safe and enjoyable gambling experience.” World Cup Aspirations Finally, it’s hard to talk about 2026 sports betting without mentioning the World Cup. Hosted across North America, the tournament presents both major opportunities and challenges for operators globally, but it’s ultimately a celebration of football that will offer countless betting options to players throughout Latin America—especially since Argentina and Brazil are among the top contenders to win. As Westbury concluded: “Western European operators alone face time zone challenges, but I’ve always said we’re in the entertainment and excitement business—and the World Cup fuels both. “That’s why we’re integrating World Cup-related content into our offerings, ensuring our new and existing players can bring that excitement into their experience with us while staying safe and having fun.” 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) - AffPapa is launching the Running Club, a new pre-conference event aimed at invigorating attendees of AffPapa Conference Madrid and fostering new networking opportunities. In partnership with The Walking Spread and Hybrid Interaction, this morning run offers participants a chance to connect in an informal setting before the official conference sessions commence. Led by Shahar Attias, the run is scheduled for May 18, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, with a starting point at Novotel Madrid Center and concluding at Religion Coffee Shop. The route has been thoughtfully designed to provide an enjoyable exploration of Madrid and encourage casual connections through conversation. Levon Nikoghosyan, Founder & CEO of AffPapa, commented: Our intention was to introduce an energizing and interactive element prior to the main conference. The morning run provides attendees with an opportunity to begin their day actively, experience Madrid, and connect with peers in a relaxed atmosphere. It serves as the ideal commencement to the busy schedule of AffPapa Conference Madrid. Designed to complement the formal conference sessions, the morning run is part of AffPapa’s broader array of interactive side events, which include: A Padel tournament, powered by Bazoom A guided tour of the Santiago Bernabéu and Real Madrid Museum, powered by JoinAff To sign up for the running club and reserve your place, please complete the registration form. About the AffPapa Conference Madrid AffPapa Conference Madrid will take place from May 18–20 at Novotel Madrid Center. This event, AffPapa’s largest affiliate-led conference to date, is expected to draw over 1,500 attendees, comprising 40% affiliates, 40% operators, and 20% B2B providers. The two primary conference days will feature speed-dating networking sessions, panel discussions offering practical insights, an AI workshop conducted by createIT, and networking drinks following each day’s proceedings, among other activities. The complete agenda is continuously updated on the official AffPapa Conference Madrid website, where interested parties can also register as attendees and explore sponsorship opportunities. 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) - To better educate and protect players about legal and regulated gambling activities in South Africa, the National Gambling Board (NGB) launched a new online verification portal on Wednesday in partnership with all South African gambling operators that hold valid licenses under South African gambling laws. As part of an ongoing initiative to tackle illegal and unauthorised gambling, the NGB’s goal is to give players a way to confirm whether an operator is authorised and regulated to operate legally within South Africa. The verification portal was developed jointly by the NGB and provincial licensing authorities (PLAs), and provides a searchable register of all legally licensed land-based and online gambling operators in South Africa. Acting CEO of the NGB, Lungile Dukwana, stated: This platform is a critical step in protecting South Africans from the risks posed by illegal gambling. It provides the public with a trusted resource to verify licensed gambling operators, ensures that those who choose to gamble can do so in a safe, regulated environment, and strengthens oversight and accountability within the gambling industry. According to the NGB, in FY 2024/25, South African players wagered a total of R1.5 trillion (approximately US$89-billion) across all types of legal gambling, marking a 31.3% increase compared to FY 2023/24. In addition, the rapid growth of cross-border online gambling and offshore betting sites that target South African players without proper South African authorization has made it difficult for local regulators to keep up with the pace of regulatory change. Regulatory challenges for South African regulators stemming from illegal and unlicensed offshore and online gambling operators continue to be a serious impediment to the country’s regulated gambling marketplace. The South African Bookmakers Association (SABA) recently reported that 62% of total online gambling activity by South African players takes place on unlicensed gambling sites. The NGB’s verification portal aims to help players gain a better understanding of South Africa’s legal and regulated gambling industry, while encouraging players to verify an operator’s legitimacy and legality before placing any bets. 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) - Betsson’s shares fell sharply following the release of its preliminary Q1 2026 results, at one point declining more than 20% before slightly bouncing back. As of April 9, the stock trades at SEK90.10, down 14.4% from the previous closing price of SEK104.80. Betsson anticipates Q1 revenue will hit €285 million, representing a 3% fall from €294 million in the corresponding period last year. Profitability declined more steeply: EBIT is forecast at €34 million, versus €64 million in Q1 2025. Regional results were mixed, with the biggest slump occurring in the Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia (CEECA) region. Revenue here dropped 21% year-over-year, going from €122 million to €96 million. Even with this decline, CEECA still stands as Betsson’s top revenue-producing region. That said, robust growth in Latin America is narrowing the gap—revenue there increased 24% to €93 million. This weaker performance continues a trend seen in Q4 2025, where total revenue dipped slightly year-on-year and CEECA revenue decreased by 9%. Market pressures could be tied to regulatory changes in Turkey, where President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has adopted a firm position against unlicensed online gambling—calling it potentially “more harmful than terrorism” and vowing to eradicate it. It’s thought that Betsson has exposure to the Turkish market via a B2B deal, which might be a factor in the downturn. The results also mirror a change in Betsson’s revenue composition. CEO Pontus Lindwall had earlier emphasized a strategic shift toward B2C operations. This is clear in Q1’s numbers: B2B revenue fell substantially from €90 million to €51 million. At the same time, B2C performance demonstrated resilience—casino revenue rose 4%, and sportsbook remained steady. Lindwall pointed out that B2B performance had been “dragged down by reduced revenue from one of our clients,” but added that the partner’s activity levels have stabilized since December. Betsson stated that average daily revenue in Q2 is currently running 9% higher than in the same period last year, providing a glimmer of optimism. But this hasn’t stopped a negative market response. Investors will have to wait until April 24—when the full Q1 interim report is published—to get a clearer picture of the company’s performance and future prospects. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - International Entertainment Corp (IEC) has settled US$113 million in debt, utilizing funds from the first issuance of Subscription Notes to DigiPlus Interactive Corp. The company verified the redemption of HK$489 million (US$63 million) in promissory notes and the payment of an additional HK$392 million (US$50 million) in bank loans. These settlements were financed by the initial HK$800 million (US$102.5 million) portion of the Subscription Notes. These Subscription Notes, amounting to HK$1.6 billion (US$205 million) in two tranches, form a component of a wider November agreement. This arrangement will result in DigiPlus obtaining a controlling interest in IEC and its principal property, the recently renamed LaVie Resort & Casino, which encompasses the New Coast Hotel Manila. Following the issuance and conversion of the total note amount, DigiPlus is projected to own a 53.89% share of IEC. IEC considers this deal a significant move to enhance its liquidity and financial health. For its part, DigiPlus seeks to grow its entertainment portfolio by merging a physical casino platform with its digital business. Under a provisional license from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation issued in 2023, IEC is presently converting the New Coast Hotel Manila into a comprehensive integrated resort. The company has pledged a minimum investment of US$1 billion for this development and has already assumed complete operational management of the casino, taking over from PAGCOR. 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 Finnish government has indicated that it may launch a public stock offering for Veikkaus, the state-owned gambling operator. However, several requirements must be met before a public listing can proceed. Reports suggest that Finland is on track to become the first Nordic country to implement a competitive licensing system for online gambling starting in 2027. This transition marks a major shift for Veikkaus, as it will relinquish its exclusive rights to online sports betting and digital slot machines. Despite this, the company will retain its monopoly over lottery games, scratch cards, land-based slot machines, and physical casinos. The possibility of listing the gambling entity on the stock market was brought to light in November, following an interview between Strandberg and local media. A public offering would allow the gambling monopoly to be traded on the Helsinki Exchange, opening the door for private investors to hold shares in the company. As other nations move toward deregulating and selling off their state-run gambling monopolies, Finland appears ready to follow a similar path. 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 global betting and gaming sector’s sports sponsorship landscape is constantly active. Just this week, several significant agreements have been finalized, reaching millions of sports enthusiasts globally. In this Sponsor Spotlight, we examine Superbet’s substantial progress in the Greek market, emphasize the growing connections between prediction markets and football, and showcase GR8 Tech’s notably special new brand representative. Greek Football Giants Go Super Less than a month after its late March debut in Greece, the Central and Eastern European (CEE) gambling giant has launched a bold strategy to capture market share by partnering with the nation’s two largest football clubs. By revealing sponsorship agreements with Panathinaikos and PAOK, Superbet is evidently targeting swift growth via a calculated boost in brand presence. Furthermore, this Romanian gambling operator intends to further bolster Greek sports by providing financial support for infrastructure projects and youth academies. Forecasting the Match Turning back to football, the North American commercial branch of Spain’s LALIGA has observed the surging interest in prediction markets within the US. Consequently, the inaugural official collaboration between a prediction market platform and a European football league has been established, as LALIGA North America signed a deal with Polymarket, a leading global prediction market platform. Shayne Coplan, CEO and Founder of Polymarket, stated: “We aim to provide fans with a more dynamic method to track the game, allowing real-time reflection of opinions on players, matches, and seasonal results.” Polymarket partners with LALIGA as predictions space lands first European football deal A Newcomer to the World Cup Expanding the scope of football and prediction markets further, FIFA has unveiled its inaugural World Cup partnership with a platform of this nature, a move that may catch some off guard. Rather than collaborating with the aforementioned Polymarket or its primary rival Kalshi, FIFA has disclosed that its newest partner is ADI Predictstreet, a firm that obtained its license in Gibraltar just days ago. Nevertheless, FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed confidence that fans will be impressed by ADI Predictstreet’s offerings during the upcoming summer of football. He remarked: “Through this partnership with FIFA, ADI Predictstreet will launch a novel and thrilling way for global fans to interact with football, utilizing insights and engagement to strengthen their bond with our tournaments.” FIFA confirms Gibraltar newcomer as prediction markets partner The Special One Concluding this week’s issue is the alliance between GR8 Tech and the celebrated football manager José Mourinho, who has rightfully earned the moniker ‘The Special One’ thanks to one of the most illustrious management careers in history. GR8 Tech and Mourinho both bring profound expertise and knowledge to the table in their respective domains, and it is assured that they will successfully advocate for the art of surpassing rivals. Mourinho observed: “Having collaborated with numerous organizations over the years, I know that consistent winners are distinguished not merely by talent, but by culture—the conviction that preparation is mandatory. I identified that quality in GR8 Tech instantly.” José Mourinho joins GR8 Tech as a brand ambassador Spotlight Rankings: Who Is Making an Impact? Polymarket / LALIGA This takes the top spot thanks to the exceptional global brand recognition both entities possess. Moreover, it fits into a broader context—largely political—where prediction markets typically face scrutiny from European regulators. Might this indicate a viable path into the European market? FIFA / ADI Predictstreet Ranking second today are prediction markets once more. Although views on them are mixed, it is undeniable that partnering with the world’s premier football organization sends a clear message that these offerings are permanent. And there is no better stage to cement this than the World Cup. Superbet Taking third place is Superbet’s expansion into Greece, which has already involved securing sponsorship agreements with two of the nation’s largest sports teams, less than a fortnight after its market entry. With the added social dimension, this is evolving into a mutually beneficial and lucrative relationship for both Superbet and Greek sports. GR8 Tech / José Mourinho Finally, we have GR8 Tech’s collaboration with Mourinho. Although this operates on a much smaller scale than the other entries on today’s list, the alliance exudes confidence and remains a significant standout. 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) - Evolution is intensifying its legal fight by seeking to add Playtech as a defendant in its existing defamation lawsuit filed in a New Jersey Superior Court. The lawsuit initially named Calcagni & Kanefsky LLP, the law firm that delivered a 2021 report to regulators accusing Evolution of operating in prohibited markets like China, Iran, and Sudan. This report was commissioned following Playtech's hiring of the private intelligence agency Black Cube. Subsequent inquiries by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement and the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board concluded without any punitive measures being taken against Evolution. Evolution stated: It remains deeply disappointing that a direct rival would resort to such extreme measures to engineer a secret campaign aimed at damaging our company and evading fair market competition. We are officially adding Playtech to our legal action because the evidence is unambiguous: Playtech engaged Black Cube to produce and disseminate a defamatory report intended to injure Evolution, all while deceiving the market and its investors about its involvement. Evolution alleges that Playtech, which paid an estimated $2.4 million to Black Cube for the investigation, utilized the resulting report as a component of a broader plan to undermine Evolution's standing in the U.S. market. The revised legal filing now levels accusations at Playtech for trade libel, fraud, and racketeering. Furthermore, Evolution is requesting permission to expand its original complaint to name communications consultant Juda Engelmayer and other parties. Evolution further claims that Playtech's CEO, Mor Weizer, failed to disclose necessary information to the company's shareholders. Evolution added: We have full confidence in our stringent compliance protocols and are certain the facts support our position. We anticipate ensuring Playtech, Black Cube, and all those who assisted them are held responsible for the damage they have inflicted. Playtech has denied the allegations, asserting that its conduct was proper. Playtech said As stated before, Playtech reaffirms its choice to commission the report central to Evolution's allegations and stands by the accuracy of its conclusions. Evolution persists in trying to sidestep proper examination instead of confronting persistent concerns about its own behavior, such as its choice to provide services to operators in both illegal and sanctioned jurisdictions and to aid unlicensed operators in regulated markets. Despite the ongoing legal dispute, Playtech is continuing to grow its North American operations. For 2025, Playtech announced a 71% revenue surge in the United States and Canada compared to the prior year, primarily driven by its partnerships with operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, Hard Rock, and Delaware North. Playtech's projected growth in North America is likely to receive a boost from the expected regulatory approval for online casino gaming in Maine. The company added: Playtech will mount a robust defense against Evolution's accusations and remains committed to acting for the benefit of industry operators, suppliers, regulators, and its shareholders. 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) - Flutter Entertainment has unveiled its Betfair Predictions Betting product in a beta launch. This new Betfair Predictions service will function as an adapted version of the Betfair Exchange platform, tailored specifically for prediction markets. It will operate under the existing Betfair UK Gaming licence, allowing users to place wagers on real-world events across categories such as sports, politics, and entertainment. Differing from conventional betting where a user places a bet on an event's outcome, this system requires users to make a prediction by choosing yes or no and then staking their wager. Utilizing the same system as the current Betfair Exchange is expected to be advantageous for the operator. Betfair reports that its exchange platform is projected to handle £84 billion in betting volume in 2025, a 10% increase from the year before. During the beta period, access to Betfair Predictions will be restricted to a select group of users invited by Betfair to trial the product. The company has indicated that it is "too early to say" what the future development path for the product will be after the beta concludes. This testing phase will gather insights on how UK consumers engage with betting products that utilize prediction-based mechanics. 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) - AffPapa is thrilled to announce that the voting period for the AffPapa iGaming Awards 2026 has officially commenced, allowing the sector to select this year's victors. Balloting will continue through May 4, with the announcement of winners scheduled for May 20, which coincides with the final day of the AffPapa Conference Madrid. Celebrating its fifth anniversary, the 2026 AffPapa iGaming Awards will adopt the theme "The Test of Time," honoring affiliates, operators, and B2B providers who have consistently elevated industry standards through enduring innovation and performance. To shift the spotlight from organizations to the individuals propelling the sector forward, this edition introduces four new exclusive categories designed to recognize individual achievement and leadership. These categories will open for voting at a later date, with further details to be released soon: Woman Leader of the Year CEO of the Year Affiliate Manager of the Year Best Employer of the Year Levon Nikoghosyan, Founder and CEO of AffPapa, stated: As we enter the voting phase, it is time for the industry to make its choice. The nominees have all put in the effort over the past year, and now it comes down to who the community believes truly delivered. It is always exciting to see how it all plays out! With voting now active, AffPapa encourages all industry professionals to back their preferred candidates. To view the complete list of nominees and cast your vote, please visit the official AffPapa iGaming Awards website, where you can also discover the limited remaining sponsorship opportunities for increased visibility during the ceremony. About AffPapa iGaming Awards The AffPapa iGaming Awards is an annual ceremony established in 2022 to recognize and honor affiliates, operators, and B2B providers who have elevated industry benchmarks through their hard work and innovation throughout the year. These gala awards serve as a tribute to the progressive evolution of the iGaming industry, while also serving as a continuation of AffPapa's core mission of uniting the industry. 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) - Genius Sports, a global frontrunner in real-time sports data, today announced that Tony Marlow has been appointed Chief Marketing Officer. Marlow will join the executive leadership team to oversee global marketing, communications and brand strategy, as the company continues to expand its role powering the ecosystem that connects the sports, betting, media and advertising sectors. Mark Locke, Chief Executive Officer of Genius Sports, stated: We act as the operating system for sports, with the underlying infrastructure to generate value across every segment of the ecosystem. As the industry grows more integrated across data, media, betting and advertising, our core focus is scaling this platform on a global level. Tony’s appointment reinforces our leadership team and our capacity to deliver on this vision and speed up growth across all parts of the business. Marlow brings deep expertise building fast-growing marketing teams at the intersection of media, technology and advertising. Most recently, he held the role of Chief Marketing Officer at LG Ad Solutions, where he helped position the company as a category leader in the connected TV space. He previously served as CMO at Integral Ad Science and Data Axle, and led B2B marketing operations at Yahoo earlier in his career. Tony Marlow, the newly appointed Chief Marketing Officer of Genius Sports, commented: I’m delighted to join as CMO at such an exciting juncture for the company. The live moment economy is now well established, and the sports sector can now deliver even greater value to both fans and brands by enabling them to engage during the highest-impact, most meaningful moments. This drives value across the entire ecosystem, while also providing a more positive experience for fans. Genius has built the necessary infrastructure to make this possible. Our key opportunity now is to bring these capabilities to market in high-visibility, impactful ways. Marlow will focus on leading the company’s global go-to-market initiatives targeting its core audience groups, including sports leagues and federations, broadcasters and streaming platforms, betting operators, as well as advertisers and consumer brands. His appointment reflects Genius Sports’ ongoing investment in its leadership team as the business expands its footprint across multiple products, partners and markets, and capitalizes on the growing opportunity in the real-time sports data and live moment economy spaces. 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.