(AsiaGameHub) -   While licensed operators face stricter rules, unregulated gambling sites are taking advantage of gaps in oversight, growing more prominent and difficult to regulate. The UK is struggling to contain illegal gambling as black market entities outpace enforcement efforts. A new study by fraud expert Alex Wood, backed by Flutter UK & Ireland, reveals that offshore betting platforms remain highly accessible and are frequently advertised in the digital space. Wood’s research identified significant flaws in identity checks. During trials conducted before the Cheltenham Festival, he successfully opened accounts on several offshore sites using obviously fraudulent credentials. He utilized the names of prominent horse racing figures, such as Willie Mullins, Jack Kennedy, and Harry Skelton. Even nonsensical addresses like “Cheltenham racecourse” were permitted during the sign-up process. In one instance, Wood signed up as the legendary horse Red Rum, claiming his profession was “racehorse” and his residence was “horse heaven.” Another site permitted a registration for a six-year-old purportedly living at Buckingham Palace. These lapses demonstrate how offshore platforms allow individuals to circumvent safety measures like self-exclusion. The investigation identified sites such as Cosmobet, Velobet, and MyStake. MyStake recently made headlines for a supposed partnership with football icon Ronaldinho, though these reports were later proven false, with evidence indicating a photo of the player and the CEO was doctored. Regulators face challenges not just from the sites themselves, but from their marketing reach. Wood noted that social media is a primary tool for gaining new users, reporting that his Instagram feed was inundated with promotions for offshore bookies via influencer and tipster accounts. Some of these advertisements directed users to private messaging channels where referral codes and betting suggestions were shared. Alex Wood commented: I have been stunned by the vast amount of unlicensed and illegal gambling material being marketed online, and social media platforms must be held accountable for this. In a separate test, Wood asked Meta AI for offshore gambling recommendations and was provided with links to multiple black market websites specifically targeting the UK market. Weaknesses in payment processing also contribute to the problem. Many offshore sites accept standard payment methods like digital wallets and bank cards, allowing users to move from the regulated market to the black market with ease. 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) -   Law enforcement agencies in the Western Visayas Region intensified their campaign against illegal gambling throughout March, apprehending 221 individuals across 93 operations conducted region-wide. The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) also announced the confiscation of PHP 142,052.75 in wagered money during these enforcement actions. Between March 1 and March 31, 2026, police efforts targeting illegal gambling resulted in an average of over seven arrests daily, totaling 221, and the seizure of more than PHP142,000 in betting funds. PRO-6 indicated that these operations were carried out consistently and collaboratively by units spanning multiple jurisdictions. The Iloilo City Police Office led the region with 38 operations, followed by the Iloilo Province Police Office with 23 operations, making both units significant contributors to the month's anti-gambling initiatives. PRO-6 emphasized that these ongoing operations are integral to the broader strategy of curbing illegal gambling. Authorities have observed a frequent correlation between illegal gambling and other criminal activities, underscoring the persistent necessity for enforcement measures. The apprehension of over 200 individuals and the execution of nearly 100 operations within a single month demonstrate the authorities' commitment to maintaining pressure on illegal gambling operations. 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) -   KSA holds that online gambling operators must gain a clearer understanding of their responsibilities when it comes to protecting their players. The Netherlands enforces a central self-exclusion mechanism called Cruks, which operators are required to use as soon as they find evidence that a player may have gambling-related problems. After operators determine that a player could be facing a severe gambling issue, they are required to advise the player to join this national self-exclusion database. Once a player registers for Cruks, they will be blocked from accessing any legal gambling websites operating in the Netherlands. If a player refuses to sign up for Cruks, the operator is legally bound to immediately report the player to the KSA. If the KSA determines that a player should be self-excluded, it can forcibly add that individual to the exclusion list. However, operators currently face confusion over how to confirm whether a player has already registered in this database, and what their exact reporting obligations are. Apart from addressing issues related to operator obligations under its "duty of care" guidelines, the KSA also issued warnings to sportsbooks last week. KSA investigators identified several sportsbooks that had been offering wagers deemed to be illegal. The KSA contacted these sportsbooks immediately, and all of them quickly removed the specific wagering products from their websites. 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) -   Spinomenal, a premier iGaming content creator, is releasing its much-awaited follow-up, Baba Yaga Tales 2. Enter the shadowy realm of Baba Yaga Tales 2, where a 5×5 reel grid hums with mystical force under ancient, gnarled trees and occult icons. An immersive, haunting score enhances the spooky ambiance, pulling players further into the depths of Slavic mythology. Featuring four distinct Slavic spirits, the game assigns each one unique mechanics and progressively greater rewards as players advance through the Free Spins domain. Wild symbols replace all others except the Scatter, with five on a payline awarding 300 times the stake. During the base game, a win multiplier of 2x or 3x can materialize as the reels spin. The Blue Moon Scatter is the key to the Free Spins feature; landing three triggers it. Every activation moves the player forward to a new Free Spins stage, each defined by its own supernatural gameplay. Hitting the Ultra Scatter alongside a Divine Baba Yaga symbol supercharges the Free Spins, unlocking the complete potential of every feature. This otherworldly Free Spins voyage starts with Morozko’s Winning Symbols Respin, where any winning combination causes a respin, locking the winning symbols and replacing the others. Securing three more Scatters transports players to Zmeygorviychi’s Extra Wilds, which adds more wilds to the reels to boost win potential and stoke the supernatural fire. The rewards grow more intense as the journey continues. Rusalka signifies the third phase with Shifting Reels Respin. Here, the reels slide down one row each spin, unveiling a fresh row from the top, simulating a flowing journey through the enchanted woods. When Ultra Mode is engaged, winning combinations stay fixed as the other symbols renew, setting off chain reactions for larger payouts. The fourth and concluding phase is Baba Yaga’s Stacked Wilds Respin. In this final round, a fully landed stacked Wild on any reel triggers a respin. During Ultra Mode, stacked Wilds are assured on every spin from reel one to five, releasing the witch's total mystical might. Two fully landed stacked Wilds also activate a respin, paving the way for the most substantial victories. Spinomenal CO-CEO, Omer Henya commented: Baba Yaga Tales 2 is a superb expansion of the Spinomenal collection, offering players an exciting dive into Slavic myth through gameplay that truly values their engagement. The cascading wins, multipliers, and Wheel of Fortune provide multiple paths to success, while the progressive Free Spins stages maintain high excitement and peerless entertainment. When the Free Spins feature is activated, a magical Wheel of Fortune adorned with medium-paying symbols appears. Players spin the wheel to determine which symbol will become an expanding symbol for the duration of the round. This expanding symbol generates additional winning lines alongside the standard ones, revealing exceptional win possibilities, culminating in a staggering top prize of 10,000 times the bet—a reward reserved for the luckiest explorers of Slavic lore. 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) -   LaLiga has formed a strategic alliance with Polymarket, creating history as the premier European professional soccer league to enter the prediction markets sector through this collaboration. Under the terms of this deal, Polymarket is designated as LaLiga's official and exclusive Prediction Market partner for clients located in the United States and Canada. Boris Gartner, CEO and partner at Relevent, commented: "Football's expansion in North America is being driven by young, diverse, and multicultural fans who engage with sports across various platforms. We aim to maintain our connection with these demographics using innovative methods. Moving beyond conventional engagement strategies is essential to increasing the sport's accessibility, making Polymarket the ideal collaborator for this initiative." LaLiga intends to leverage the Polymarket platform to offer supporters a range of fresh opportunities to interact with the league, its clubs, and its players. This collaboration aligns with LaLiga's ongoing global growth strategy, which was established in 2018 alongside the formation of a joint venture with Relevent Sports Group. The agreement encompasses three key areas. Polymarket will receive visibility during live match broadcasts of LaLiga games. Furthermore, the platform will be able to create digital and social media content focused on engaging LaLiga fans. Polymarket will also enjoy unique access to behind-the-scenes experiences at LaLiga matches, including VIP Matchdays, hospitality functions, and virtual meet-and-greets with LaLiga Legends. Additionally, Polymarket secures the exclusive rights to use LaLiga's Missed Payments for competitive activities. Shayne Coplan, founder and CEO of Polymarket, said: "Through our new alliance with LaLiga, we aim to deliver an elevated interactive experience for fans, allowing them to instantly share their insights on specific players, matches, or season developments. This collaboration introduces a novel way to engage with one of the world's most dedicated fanbases, opening new avenues for interacting with football competitions in North America." 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) -   Evoplay has introduced Heart of Africa: Lion Way, a new slot packed with features that embodies the essence and wonder of the wilderness, all set against a sun-baked savannah backdrop. Set amidst vast desert vistas, Heart of Africa: Lion Way tracks the journey of the jungle's king, blending potent game mechanics with fixed jackpots. The reels are home to majestic creatures like zebras, giraffes, and elephants, but the Lion commands attention via the central Lion Way feature. This is activated when Lion symbols land in sequence from left to right, with each one granting the value shown, allowing players to gather cash rewards or fixed jackpots such as Mini, Mega, Super, and Grand. Gameplay is defined by three unique symbols: the First Lion starts winning sequences, Money Lions hold values reaching 15x the bet or jackpot prizes, and Golden Lions open the Special Bonus Game. The Special Bonus Game plays out on a 3×3 grid with three spins, where only Money Lion symbols appear and remain locked. Completing the entire grid grants the Super jackpot, and the sum of all collected values decides the Golden Lion's ultimate prize. Wild symbols show up on reels two through four, replacing all standard symbols except for Scatters and Lions, aiding in creating winning combinations in both the main game and Free Spins. Landing three or more Scatters activates the Free Spins, providing up to 20 spins. In this mode, Lions land more often, and additional Free Spins can be retriggered with two or more Scatters. A random event may also occur during Free Spins, placing from two to six Lions on the reels to enhance win potential. Players eager to dive right in can use the Bonus Buy feature, which offers immediate entry to 10, 15, or 20 Free Spins. Ivan Kravchuk, CEO at Evoplay, said:  Heart of Africa: Lion Way embodies the untamed beauty and thrill of the savannah, merging impressive graphics with engaging features that captivate players from the outset. The Lion Way system adds a novel layer to gameplay, offering a straightforward route to wins while preserving the unpredictable excitement characteristic of the wild. 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) -   SOFTSWISS has debuted SOFTSWISS Prediction Markets, a fresh B2B offering aimed at helping online gaming and sports betting operators capitalize on the surging event-based betting sector. Utilizing a fixed-odds approach, the tool enables operators to connect with demographics outside of conventional sports betting without the hurdles of peer-to-peer (P2P) exchange models. This solution allows users to wager on yes/no outcomes regarding global developments in politics, finance, technology, and society. It is available as a standalone iFrame widget or as an integrated feature within the SOFTSWISS Sportsbook. Current partners can launch the service in just two to three days, while new clients can expect a setup period of approximately three weeks. The popularity of prediction markets has skyrocketed, fueled by high interest in elections and major international trends. In the United States, annual trading volume is projected to jump from roughly $300 million in 2024 to between $40 billion and $50 billion by 2025. Despite this trend, many established iGaming companies have yet to fully embrace the opportunity. Olga Resiga, Chief Business Development Officer at SOFTSWISS, commented: We are observing the emergence of a new player demographic. Prediction markets represent more than just a sportsbook add-on; they attract entirely different audiences who typically do not use standard betting products. Their interest is sparked by an understanding of world events rather than sports loyalty. This, paired with the non-stop news cycle, ensures a more consistent level of engagement. Operators who overlook this transition risk losing out on a new generation of market participants. In contrast to peer-to-peer models that require external liquidity, the SOFTSWISS solution employs a fixed-odds system. This provides operators with enhanced oversight of pricing, profit margins, and risk management through familiar sportsbook frameworks. Alexander Kamenetskyi, Head of Operations at SOFTSWISS Sportsbook, stated: For most businesses, the challenge isn't the appeal of prediction markets, but rather how to incorporate them into current systems without a total overhaul for exchange mechanics. A fixed-odds structure is a much more viable option. It allows operators to gauge interest within established risk and compliance parameters while reaching users who don't necessarily start with traditional sports betting habits. The product has already been deployed with several partners for initial testing and adoption. SOFTSWISS plans to present the solution and review integration possibilities with operators at the upcoming BiS SiGMA South America event in São Paulo. 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) -   Marketing tech firm Optimove has revealed its intention to purchase Smartico, a business renowned for its gamification-focused CRM solutions within the iGaming industry. The transaction is set to close in the next few weeks, though financial terms remain undisclosed. After the acquisition is complete, both entities will keep running autonomously, maintaining their individual brands, teams, and product plans. Smartico’s founders will stay at the helm of the company, managing its strategic direction and daily activities. This step takes place against the backdrop of fast growth in the global online gambling market, which is growing more intricate due to changing regulations and regional divisions. In this context, the need for sophisticated CRM and player engagement tools keeps increasing. Optimove, well-known for its data-backed CRM marketing platform and AI-enabled decision-making features, has been a major player in the iGaming sector for a long time. Smartico, conversely, has established its name by embedding gamification directly into CRM processes, boosting player engagement via missions, rewards, and interactive experiences. By uniting the two companies under a single ownership structure, the acquisition merges complementary strengths—Optimove’s advanced analytics and AI with Smartico’s gamification-centric approach. Even with shared ownership, both firms will keep developing their products independently and may even compete in the market; this strategy is thought to encourage ongoing innovation. Smartico’s current clients shouldn’t anticipate any immediate changes. The company will keep its existing services, pricing, and support framework, now supported by extra resources from Optimove. In summary, the agreement strengthens Optimove’s standing in the changing iGaming CRM landscape, as the industry moves toward more sophisticated, AI-powered marketing and engagement solutions. 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) -   Casino expert Liam Blackley outlines the review process at Casino.ca and the criteria he uses for casino recommendations. Discover the top low-deposit casinos in Canada as highlighted by Blackley and learn what Canadian players prioritize in a gaming site. TheGamblest: Liam, you are part of the casino review team at Casino.ca. What distinguishes the Canadian iGaming scene, and what is your background in this market? Liam: Canada enforces relatively stringent laws for physical casinos, which has fueled the massive growth of online gambling. Sports betting and refined mobile applications are especially attractive to Canadian players. Ontario, my home and work province, pioneered the establishment of a specialized iGaming regulatory authority in the country. Now, platforms must obtain approval and a license to operate in Ontario, condensing the market to a select group of high-quality operators. Other provinces are adopting this model, with Alberta preparing to introduce similar regulatory frameworks soon. To attract a Canadian audience, online casinos must remain competitive by offering user-friendly advantages such as low minimum deposits. I have witnessed the Ontario iGaming sector develop and evolve over many years, having assessed numerous online casinos across Canada and the U.S. for various publications. My role at Casino.ca has allowed me to focus specifically on the Ontario market. TheGamblest: What is involved in a Casino.ca review? What portion is based on objective data versus your personal viewpoint? Liam: I aim to rely on facts as much as I can, while also noting features that may subjectively suit different playing preferences. Each review begins with comprehensive hands-on testing. I frequently dedicate an entire day to navigating a casino site before writing anything. The objective is to experience the journey of a typical user, from registration to making an initial deposit and redeeming a welcome offer. Following that, I gather extensive data. This includes the number of games accessible in Canada, the availability of key payment options like Interac or PayPal, and whether customer support is available 24/7 or at least during peak Canadian gambling hours. These are all points that can be verified objectively. Beyond the basics, the assessment becomes more nuanced. I look for feature synergy, not just volume. For instance, a $5.00 minimum deposit is notable, but its value diminishes if the casino imposes deposit fees. While some players might accept this, as a reviewer I adopt a stricter stance to guide readers toward the highest-caliber platforms. TheGamblest: You brought up minimum deposit casinos. Is this a key concern for Canadian players? Liam: Absolutely. Virtually all Canadian financial institutions and online casinos support Interac e-transfers for quick and convenient online payments, similar to Venmo in the U.S. More than 88% of Canadians have used Interac at least once. Many Canadian online casinos permit minimum deposits of $5.00 via Interac, with some even allowing $1.00 deposits using Visa or MasterCard. This sets a high benchmark for all other payment options. Whereas casinos in other regions might offer more features or a sleeker platform in exchange for higher deposit minimums, Canadian players expect low thresholds on all sites and are less inclined to sacrifice quality for lower cost. In Ontario, the range of approved casino payment methods is relatively restricted, mainly due to provincial regulations. This makes low deposit limits even more vital, as players frequently cannot just opt for a different method to find lower limits. TheGamblest: Which online casinos offer the best minimum deposits in Canada? Do you have any suggestions? Liam: I endorse any casino operated by Cadtree Ltd. This group includes Jackpot City, Spin Casino, and Ruby Fortune. Players can deposit as little as $5.00 using methods like Interac or credit cards, and also via Instadebit or the MuchBetter e-wallet. Additionally, these casinos provide expedited withdrawals on specific methods, enabling payouts in under an hour. Casino Days is another excellent choice, featuring deposits from $1.00 and one of my preferred casino apps in Canada. I would also suggest ToonieBet, which has a slightly higher $10.00 minimum deposit but makes up for it with a library of over 5,000 games. Ontario residents might consider the OLG online casino, operated by the provincial crown corporation, for added trustworthiness and stability, with minimum deposits starting at $15.00. TheGamblest: How can casinos best attract players for whom low minimum deposits are a must-have? Liam: Currently, in 2026, cryptocurrency is fundamentally reshaping deposit minimum expectations. While coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum have strong brand awareness, others such as Dogecoin or Ripple enable remarkably low deposits—sometimes just a few cents. Cryptocurrency surpasses all traditional (fiat) payment methods in terms of pure cost-effectiveness, making it a favored option for budget-minded players. The leading crypto casinos understand that their users prioritize privacy, low cost, and transaction speed. For any casino that begins with only fiat payments, adding cryptocurrency options is an effective strategy to attract new users and keep existing ones engaged. 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) -   Soft2Bet has introduced Betoro in Denmark, a new brand for sports betting and casino games designed for Danish enthusiasts seeking a deeper connection to sports through an experience characterized by clarity, control, and local relevance. At the core of Betoro's strategy is "guided passion," an approach that embraces the excitement of sports while ensuring the overall experience remains clear, organized, and trustworthy. Betoro is crafted for players who desire the thrill of the game without unnecessary complications, transforming sporting intensity into informed and confident gameplay. This philosophy also influences Betoro's visual identity. A dark color scheme, metallic accents, and deep red hues lend the brand a focused and confident appearance, while the central bull motif conveys strength, patience, and control. The outcome is a brand identity that captures the intensity of sports in a manner that remains clear, balanced, and user-friendly. Specifically tailored for the Danish market, Betoro offers native Danish customer support, culturally attuned messaging, and an experience that feels intuitive to local players. Its content and marketing campaigns highlight the leagues, teams, and sporting culture most popular among Danish audiences. Furthermore, initiatives tied to key holidays and cultural events demonstrate a similar respect for local language, customs, and traditions. MEGA, Soft2Bet's Motivational Engineering Gaming Application, is central to Betoro's player retention strategy. Danish players will find custom milestones that provide structure and a clear sense of progress in their daily gaming. Within Betoro, gamification naturally enhances the player's journey, offering entertainment and measurable achievements as players engage with the platform, reinforcing the brand's emphasis on control and momentum. Yoel Zuckerberg, CPO at Soft2Bet, commented: With the launch of Betoro in Denmark, our objective was to create a brand that feels genuinely Danish. We recognize that true localization involves reflecting local sporting culture and player preferences in ways that make the experience feel familiar and relevant. By combining this cultural respect with our 'guided passion' approach to responsible gaming and the natural progression and achievements powered by MEGA, we are providing Danish players with an experience that is both entertaining and designed for sustained engagement. Through Betoro, Soft2Bet continues to expand its range of brands characterized by strong creative vision, localized execution, and responsible product development. This launch underscores the company's conviction that enduring success is achieved by offering players experiences that are truly relevant to their market, maintaining high standards of usability, and delivering value that extends far beyond the initial gaming session. 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) -   Top sportsbook platform Altenar is participating in SiGMA South America in São Paulo, which launched today, April 6. The firm is posing a key industry question: why do so many operators still fail to prioritize sportsbooks as the core of their strategy? Brazil’s online gaming (iGaming) market is thriving, yet numerous operators are stuck in their comfort zones. Local brands keep leaning heavily on casino offerings, whereas global industry leaders are shifting more and more toward sports betting. The rationale is obvious: sportsbooks foster deeper user engagement and better long-term customer retention. Data backs up this trend. By 2025’s end, Brazil’s licensed betting industry had generated R$37 billion in Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR), roughly $7.5 billion USD, signifying the first full year of a regulated online market. Per H2-OpenBet, sports betting made up 55% of the total online betting and gaming GGR, cementing its position as the market’s biggest single vertical. Against this backdrop, viewing sportsbooks as secondary offerings is no longer a cautious strategy—it’s a lost business chance. Altenar’s Co-Founder and COO Dinos Stranomitis will discuss this topic at the panel titled “The Undefined Value of Sports Betting in Brazil.” The key takeaway is clear: the next industry leaders will be those who expand beyond casinos by adopting sportsbooks. Altenar’s current expansion in São Paulo mirrors this path—toward more balanced, data-informed operations where sportsbooks are a central component. Luana Monje, Sales Executive at Altenar Brazil, commented: The sports betting market is changing more quickly than many operators are willing to acknowledge. Operators that act now to prioritize sportsbooks will lead in customer retention and lifetime value. The true risk lies in delaying serious action on this front. Got more questions? Stop by Altenar’s booth at SiGMA South America in São Paulo (stand J176) from April 6 to 9. 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) -   Canada’s federal securities regulator has approved two companies to begin trading in prediction markets as it cautiously dips its toes into this highly contentious investment category. The Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) has authorized Interactive Brokers Canada and Toronto-based Wealthsimple to launch trading in event contracts, which will be finalized by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC)—the agency that supervises CFTC-licensed platforms such as Kalshi, PolyMarket, and Crypto.com. CIRO oversees investment dealers and establishes rules for event contract trading. A separate body, the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA), collaborates with provincial securities regulators across Canada to ensure national consistency. Louis Morisset, former chair of the CSA, stated: Binary options are the leading form of investment fraud facing Canadians today, and the impact of these scams on individuals is immense. CIRO has clarified that only a limited variety of contracts will be allowed: their maturity dates must be at least 30 days away, and they can be based on economic, environmental, or financial indicators. All these contracts will be classified as derivatives, so they will be subject to the same rules and oversight from both CIRO and participating provincial regulators that govern options trading. Additionally, CIRO noted that event contracts related to elections, political nominations, referenda, or any activity unlawful under Canadian law will not be permitted. This aligns with the CSA’s prior ban on short-term binary options, which were also strongly associated with fraud and harm to the investing public. 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) -   Kalshi, a provider of prediction market services, has had its ban upheld by a state judge in Nevada. The State of Nevada asserts that the services offered by Kalshi are gaming-adjacent and fall under the scope of gambling regulatory rules. Judge Jason Woodbury of the First Judicial District Court based in Carson City has ruled to issue a preliminary injunction that prevents Kalshi from selling contracts tied to sporting events, all types of entertainment events, and elections unless it holds a valid gaming license issued by the State of Nevada. Judge Woodbury issued the temporary restraining order (TRO) on the grounds that the court determined purchasing contracts linked to a specific sporting event is nearly identical to placing wagers through a licensed casino or bookmaker. The court's ruling also challenges Kalshi's claim that its products qualify as federally regulated "swaps" under the oversight of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Speaking on this latest development, U.S. Gaming Law and Sports Betting Attorney Daniel Wallach called the ruling a key milestone for state regulators, writing on LinkedIn: Major win for Nevada, which now joins Massachusetts as the first two states to obtain a preliminary injunction against Kalshi. The legal landscape across the country remains highly fragmented www.bcljs.com, with Nevada being one of just a small number of states with an active court-ordered ban on offering Kalshi services. The regulatory environment for this space still remains fragmented in nature. The Nevada Council on Problem Gambling and the Dr. Robert Hunter International Problem Gambling Centre submitted amicus briefs to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals regarding the risks connected to the accessibility, transaction speed, and product design of the products and services available via Kalshi. 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) -   Paradise Co. reported that its casino revenue for March dropped by 39.6 percent year-on-year and 44.0 percent compared to February, totaling US$32.8 million (KRW49.5 billion), though the operator provided no specific reasons for the decline. Although the total drop rose by 9.7 percent sequentially to US$389 million (KRW587.7 billion), overall casino revenue fell during the month, driven by a 43.4 percent year-over-year decrease in table revenue to US$29.1 million (KRW44.0 billion). For the first quarter of 2026, total revenue reached US$152 million (KRW229.7 billion), representing a 1.8 percent increase over the same period last year. During this quarter, table games revenue grew by 1.0 percent, machine revenue rose by 23.6 percent, and the total table drop climbed 3.6 percent to US$1.17 billion (KRW1.76 trillion). Paradise Co. operates three casino resorts in Seoul, Busan, and Jeju, and holds a 55 percent majority stake in the Paradise City integrated resort, a joint venture with Japan’s Sega Sammy Holdings. 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 Department of Justice has confirmed that all Philippine offshore gaming operator hubs have ceased operations in the Philippines, following a government crackdown that effectively dismantled the sector. Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida informed reporters that the extensive enforcement campaign resulted in the closure of 80% of previously active hubs within one month of their expiration date. He stated unequivocally that there are no legally sanctioned POGOs currently operating within the country, nor are there any operating illegally. He further reiterated the government's official position that no POGO operations will be permitted in the Philippines. Despite the official shutdown of the sector, the Department of Justice has indicated that monitoring of these operations will continue. The DOJ will maintain close surveillance and will intervene if any illegal activity is discovered or reported, as anticipated. The Department of Justice will persist in its active efforts to ensure that any group choosing to operate outside the law will be reported, and appropriate measures will be taken against them. While the DOJ has declared the country a POGO-free zone, it seeks to alleviate any doubts about its commitment to addressing the issue. The continuation of monitoring activities signals that the government will not tolerate a return to unauthorized POGO-related activities in the wake of this closure. 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) -   Lotte Tour Development announced a strong recovery for Jeju Dream Tower in March, with casino sales climbing 24.3% year-over-year and 23.8% month-over-month, reaching KRW40.4 billion (US$26.7 million). This resurgence was supported by improved performance across both table games and slot machines, following a period of significantly lower activity in the preceding month. Table Game Revenue saw a 24.0% increase, totaling KRW38.4 billion (US$25.4 million), while Machine Revenue advanced by 30.3% to KRW2.05 billion (US$1.35 million). Hotel Revenue also experienced substantial growth in March, rising 43.3% from the previous year to KRW5.88 billion (US$3.88 million). Casino Visitation reached 53,587 in March, marking its highest level since October, and Table Drop grew by 19.6% to KRW188.9 billion. These increases in visitation and gaming activity indicate a positive outlook for Jeju Dream Tower, anticipating continued growth into the second quarter of 2023. For the first quarter of 2026, Casino Revenue saw a 40.3% year-over-year increase, accumulating KRW118.6 billion (US$78.4 million). Table Games revenues were the primary driver of this surge, increasing by 41.5% to KRW112.9 billion (US$74.6 million), while Machine Sales rose by 19.6% to KRW5.67 billion (US$3.75 million). Hotel Revenue also improved by 27.9% compared to 2022 figures, reaching KRW18.0 billion (US$11.9 million). With positive trends observed in Visitation, Table Drop, and revenues across both gaming and hospitality sectors, Jeju Dream Tower concludes the First Quarter with renewed momentum. The robust March results effectively counteracted February’s slower performance and have strengthened the resort’s position for a successful Second Quarter. 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.