(AsiaGameHub) -   iGP, the rapidly expanding full-service B2B iGaming solutions provider, has announced a partnership with Optimove, known for creating Positionless Marketing and being the leading Player Engagement Solution for iGaming and sports betting operators. This collaboration aims to significantly enhance the CRM marketing and lifecycle engagement capabilities available to operators on the prominent iGP Platform. As the costs of player acquisition increase and the competition for player attention intensifies, operators are facing growing pressure to utilize their player data to deliver personalized engagement throughout the entire player journey. Optimove is recognized for its CRM marketing, AI decision-making, personalization, and gamification features, all specifically developed for iGaming and sports betting. It consolidates player data into a unified view, enabling operators to orchestrate highly customized campaigns across all channels. Jovana Popovic Canaki, CEO at iGP, stated: Our evolution into a dedicated B2B technology provider has been centered on constructing the most robust platform possible for operators. Partnering with Optimove strengthens that foundation by integrating advanced CRM marketing capabilities directly into iGP. Together, we are empowering operators to activate their player data, personalize engagement at scale, and foster more substantial long-term growth. Through this partnership, operators utilizing the iGP Platform can seamlessly connect real-time player data with Optimove’s powerful tools for segmentation, analytics, and marketing automation. This enables operators to launch smarter campaigns, tailor player experiences, and maximize player value with significantly greater precision. Adi Dagan, Senior Director of Partnerships at Optimove, added: iGP has developed a forward-thinking platform that provides the iGaming industry with precisely what it needs for sustained global growth. We are excited to partner with them to advance this further, equipping operators with the intelligence, speed, and autonomy to leverage their player data and drive higher player lifetime value. This alliance furnishes operators employing iGP solutions with Positionless Marketing, offering more profound insights into their players, the capacity to generate customized assets, and the independence to engage and expand within an increasingly competitive market. 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) -   BetMGM Chief Executive Officer Adam Greenblatt has reinforced his belief that players acquired by unlicensed operators will naturally return to regulated operators simply because the experience offered is superior.  By specifically noting the prevalence and rising competition in prediction markets, Greenblatt confirmed his view that the company is stronger because it maintains much higher margins than any single player in the prediction market sector. In a briefing to investors, he cautioned that ‘if you are a professional bettor, a market maker, or a high school student, unfortunately, there isn’t a better option for you than prediction markets – but these are not our target players’.  He suggested that the long-term sustainability of prediction markets is gloomy, considering the specific player base they are attracting.  Greenblatt acknowledged that the iGaming sector is undergoing a natural evolution and growing more intense; however, he emphasized that its momentum is being driven by its omnichannel strategy.  The BetMGM CEO stated: “We are utilizing the skills and experience of MGM Resorts and their entertainment strengths in multiple areas. We have seen another part of our strategy prove extremely successful; our players have enjoyed using our engagement tools. We are seeing engagement from our entire player base on average many days a week.” Retention has continued to improve as the company relies more on rewards and live experiences, seeking to distinguish its product from prediction markets.  Moreover, the group has also profited from a series of strong game releases, including the Wizard of Oz and Wheel of Fortune titles, which help it to stand out in a competitive industry.   Confidence regarding 2027 BetMGM has voiced its confidence in hitting its $500m EBITDA goal for 2027, even as it reported that its adjusted EBITDA for this year might come in at the lower end of its guidance. The operator reported year-over-year revenue growth in both iGaming and online sports betting in its Q1 FY26 financial results, but the announcement that it will likely land near the bottom of its $300m-$350m EBITDA guidance range is attracting attention. During BetMGM’s Q1 earnings call, CEO Adam Greenblatt was asked by investors what supports the operator's confidence that it can still meet its $500m EBITDA target by 2027, despite the expectation of lower-end guidance figures for the current year. Greenblatt replied: “The foundation is that we have a very healthy business. On the gaming side, we are approaching $2bn in revenue, and we have many exciting offerings in the pipeline for our players.  “As I noted in my opening remarks, the best game on the retail floor, Gold Blitz and its franchise, is now exclusive to BetMGM for the initial period when it is most appealing to serious gamers.  “We are seeing player values rise, and NGR per player is increasing. We are deriving more value from Nevada and our omnichannel approach, with many exciting developments ahead. While the World Cup is a one-off event this year, it acts as a growth stimulus. Most notably for this year, we have the Alberta launch, now confirmed for July 13.  “Additionally, our ‘sleeping giant’ casino brand, Borgata, is highly relevant in the Northeast. We are refreshing and repositioning that brand for a different audience and demographic to expand our appeal to more gamers beyond the core BetMGM brand, and we see no limit to the number of premium players.  “Combine all of this with the potential for a new iGaming state next year in Virginia, and the possibility of a more rational sports marketing or CPA environment, and you can clearly see a path forward. Are there risks? Of course. But do we remain confident that this is achievable? Yes, and that is the balance.” 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 iGaming industry maintains its robust growth trajectory, with the top 25 markets set to generate between $92bn and $130bn in gross gaming revenue (GGR) in 2025. This range reflects variations in regulatory transparency, reporting standards, and the inclusion of offshore or grey-market activities across different jurisdictions. While Europe remains the most established region for iGaming, North America—led by the United States—and fast-developing markets in Latin America, Africa, and Asia are reshaping the global competitive landscape. Global Leaders: The Largest iGaming Markets At the top of the rankings, a small cluster of markets dominates global revenue generation. The United States leads with over $20bn, driven by expanding state-level legalization and strong performance in both online casinos and sports betting. The United Kingdom follows with more than $12bn, retaining its position as one of the world’s most mature and well-regulated iGaming ecosystems. In Asia, both Japan and China (offshore) exceed $10bn, highlighting the massive demand in the region—even where domestic regulation remains restrictive. Italy rounds out the top five with over $5bn, supported by a long-standing regulated market. Developed Markets These are the most advanced and enduring gambling markets, featuring stable regulatory environments and predictable revenue streams. Germany ($4+ billion) and France ($3+ billion) are two of Europe’s largest economies, but government-imposed limits hinder their potential for further growth. Spain, Canada, and Australia have also seen sustained growth, each generating $2+ billion through their established customer bases and widespread acceptance of digital transactions. Growing and Emerging Markets Recent years have seen a dramatic rise in the number of emerging markets, many of which are now benefiting from new regulations and the ubiquitous use of mobile devices. Brazil has quickly emerged as the largest emerging gambling market, with revenues exceeding $2 billion and continuing to grow as it transitions to a fully regulated casino framework. The Netherlands and Sweden each have reached the $1.5 billion range, clearly demonstrating how rapidly a casino market can be established using modern regulatory models. Switzerland and Denmark also each fall into the $1 billion+ range and are identified as emerging casino markets. Growing Markets Numerous regions are currently entering the gambling landscape with projected revenues over $1 billion, offering opportunities for long-term growth. Romania and Belgium (each $1 billion+) have continued to drive their success through the growth of the gaming industry in Eastern and Western Europe, respectively. Beyond Europe, developing countries like South Africa, the Philippines, and Mexico also boast annual gaming revenues over $1 billion, thanks to accelerated internet access growth and ongoing interest in online gaming. Smaller but Expanding Markets The final group includes markets that currently generate less than $1bn but still play a key role in the global iGaming ecosystem. Countries such as Greece, Portugal, and Finland continue to develop their regulatory frameworks, while Norway (offshore) and Ireland show strong demand despite structural limitations. Source: The iGaming Europe GGR data is compiled primarily from official national regulators and government sources (where available), complemented by insights from industry organizations like the AGA and EGBA, as well as market intelligence firms including H2 Gambling Capital and Regulus Partners. Currency conversions are based on approximate 2024 average exchange rates. All figures refer to online-only GGR unless stated otherwise. 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) -   Police in the Philippines apprehended a man suspected of detonating an explosive device at an illegal gambling establishment, leading to the closure of the venue. The incident followed a dispute over drop-ball gaming. According to local news source The Inquirer, the blast injured 14 people, with nine requiring ongoing hospital treatment. The event unfolded at a shop in Baguio after the suspect allegedly engaged in an altercation with an employee. He is then said to have returned with a homemade explosive, which he threw into the premises. A police investigation revealed that the location was operating as an illegal gambling den offering 'drop ball' games. In response, the Mayor of Baguio has ordered the gambling den to be shut down and has instructed the city's police force to maintain vigilance against similar illicit operations. While this incident represents an unusual method for an illegal operation to be exposed, it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in the Philippines in their efforts to curb illegal gambling. In February, senators criticized national law enforcement agencies for their perceived ineffectiveness in targeting locations where e-sabong, or cockfighting, continues to operate illegally. Senator Erwin Tulfo addressed key officials from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), stating: “You’ve managed to take down some e-sabong sites, but those were small-time operators. You still can’t take down the biggest one in the entire Philippines.” More recently, intelligence gathered by the PNP’s Anti-Cybercrime Group resulted in the arrest of four Korean nationals accused of running an illegal 'numbers game' and sports betting operation via social media for over five years. These events also occur amid increased scrutiny of the licensed gaming sector, with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) planning to implement stricter regulatory measures. Last month, PAGCOR signed a memorandum of understanding with the Department of Justice, which includes PAGCOR personnel on a list of individuals prohibited from entering casinos. Additionally, PAGCOR has certified Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) to conduct testing and certification for the iGaming platforms operating within the Philippines. Alejandro Tengco, Chair and Chief Executive Officer of PAGCOR, stated: “PAGCOR now requires all iGaming B2B suppliers operating in the Philippines to be accredited to ensure they comply with the rigorous requirements needed to protect iGaming players.” 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) -   Swintt has named Etienne Azzopardi as its permanent Managing Director, following his interim tenure in the role that began this past January. After a successful three-month period in the position—stepping in following the exit of Chief Executive Officer David Mann—Azzopardi will now oversee the software provider’s product strategy, future market growth initiatives, and continuous team development efforts. Prior to taking on the Interim Managing Director role, Azzopardi served as the software provider’s Chief Operating Officer from February 2022 to January 2026, and held the position of Director of Operations starting in August 2021. His professional background also includes experience at Quickspin and Betsson Group. Commenting on his appointment, Azzopardi said: “I’m thrilled to have been named Managing Director at Swintt.  “Since joining the company in 2021, I’ve been involved in a wide range of areas—from operational management and roadmap refinement to market licensing and game certification—and the experience I’ve gained over these four and a half years will be essential in my new position. “After serving as Interim Managing Director for three months, I feel extremely privileged to take on the role permanently and am confident this will be the spark to drive Swintt’s continued exceptional growth in regulated markets across the globe.  “With a full product roadmap already mapped out for 2026, it’s set to be an incredible journey, and I’m eager to keep expanding the Swintt brand.” While Azzopardi was Interim Managing Director, Swintt launched 12 new titles—including Lucky Lads: Hold & Win and two additional releases from Elysium Studios.  The provider also forged partnerships with NetBet in the Greek iGaming sector, along with SkillOnNet, making its Select, Premium, and Elysium Studios games available to the operator’s .com, UK, and MX brands. Building upon his accomplishments as Interim Managing Director, Swintt stated that Azzopardi’s next priority will be supporting the supplier’s expansion into regulated markets around the world, with Switzerland as a key target. Interested in more stories like this? Be sure to visit the new SBC Media YouTube Channel—SBC’s go-to destination for all multimedia content—where our team takes an in-depth look at the top stories from the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate, and payments sectors. 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) -   One of the most prominent supporters of affordability checks for the UK gambling sector has called on the government to reverse its rollout plans, citing widespread concerns about how the policy is being put into practice. Dr James Noyes, who publicly backed the reforms during 2020 and 2021 in his capacity as Senior Fellow at the Social Market Foundation, stated in an open letter addressed to Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy that core requirements laid out in the original proposals have not been fulfilled. Today I sent an open letter to the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, @lisanandy — calling on the Government to pause the implementation of financial risk assessments for bettors until a proper evaluation of the Gambling Commission’s pilot scheme has been published… pic.twitter.com/75IkUA1rOT — James Noyes (@jranoyes) April 13, 2026 Specifically, he noted that calls for affordability checks, which were included as recommendations in the 2023 Gambling White Paper, were advanced on the condition that the checks would be ‘frictionless’ and that a dedicated gambling ombudsman would be established to guarantee ‘appropriate handling of customer complaints and protection of user rights’. “I only backed affordability checks under the assumption that there would be sufficient oversight and assessment of how well they work, and that the checks would be conducted without unnecessary intrusion. But I am seeing a growing number of reports that the pilot programme has suffered from inconsistent datasets, ambiguous results and avoidable disruption for users,” Noyes wrote. The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has been operating a trial scheme for ‘financial risk assessments’ since September 2024, designed to test the feasibility of a two-tier check system aimed at identifying potential gambling-related harm. The regulator has not issued any public updates on the pilot since May 2025, however. Noyes joins a growing cohort of critics speaking out against the current rollout plans for affordability checks, who warn the measures will be excessively intrusive and push gamblers away from licensed, regulated platforms. He highlighted that multiple operators have reported that separate credit reference agencies return conflicting results for identical customers, alongside what they describe as an ‘inadequate volume of data to accurately build user risk profiles’. A YouGov survey commissioned by the Betting and Gaming Council additionally found that 65% of people who bet would be reluctant to submit personal paperwork such as bank statements as part of the financial check process. These findings come with a caveat, though, as it is not known how many of the respondents would actually be affected by the threshold limits set for the checks. Per the UKGC's most recent update from May 2025, data from the pilot's second phase showed that just one in every 1,000 customers would face disruption when going through the check process. Noyes is now calling on the government to halt all plans to roll out the checks until a full independent evaluation is published and open to scrutiny by Members of Parliament. He has also proposed that the check threshold should be based on net losses rather than the current system of total stakes, which would cut the number of players eligible for checks. For the pilot's first phase, the threshold was set at £500 in net deposits across a 30-day window, before being reduced to £150 in February 2025, aligning with the proposals outlined in the white paper. While Noyes emphasized that he wrote the letter in a personal capacity, his concerns hold considerable weight due to his senior position at the SMF. The think tank has long pushed for reforms to the UK gambling sector, including backing the substantial tax increase on remote gaming that was introduced as part of last year's budget, announced by Rachel Reeves. Alongside Noyes, the British Horseracing Association has also written to Nandy, calling for a pause to affordability checks due to specific worries about the effect the measures would have on the UK's horseracing 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) -   Playson, a distinguished provider of digital entertainment solutions, has officially established its presence in the Kenyan market through a significant collaboration with Betika, a prominent and influential gaming operator in East Africa. This launch represents a crucial advancement in Playson's strategy for continental expansion, with Betika offering a robust and well-established platform for its debut in the region. By joining forces with a market leader renowned for its extensive reach, innovative approach, and profound understanding of local player preferences, Playson is strategically positioned to make an immediate impact across East Africa. Betika's substantial customer base and proven success in delivering captivating and responsible gaming experiences make it an essential partner for international suppliers aiming to enter and grow within the region. This partnership will make Playson's content accessible to players in both Kenya and Uganda, capitalizing on Betika's expanding multi-market presence. As part of this rollout, Betika has integrated a selection of Playson's most successful titles, including Thunder Coins: Hold and Win, 4 Pots Riches: Hold and Win, and Coin Strike: Hold and Win. These games are globally recognized for their engaging mechanics, dynamic gameplay, and strong performance in regulated markets. Playson's entry into Kenya has been supported by tailored infrastructure and platform enhancements, ensuring full adherence to local regulatory requirements while aligning with Betika's high standards for performance and user experience. This preparatory work facilitates the delivery of a seamless, optimized gaming experience designed for local audiences. Conor Jenner, Senior Sales Manager at Playson, stated: Entering the Kenyan market is a major milestone for Playson, and doing so alongside a leading operator like Betika makes this step even more impactful. Betika’s strong market presence and deep understanding of its players provide an excellent foundation for our content to perform from day one. We have carefully adapted our infrastructure to meet local regulatory standards and operator requirements, ensuring a smooth rollout and high-quality player experience. We are excited about the opportunities this market presents and look forward to expanding our presence across Africa. The integration was executed via the Casimba (Markor) aggregation platform, enabling efficient deployment and scalability across various jurisdictions. Peter Stagles, Group Chief Product Officer at Betika, commented: We are pleased to partner with Playson and bring their globally recognised portfolio to our players in Kenya and Uganda. At Betika, we are continuously enhancing our offering by working with best-in-class partners to deliver engaging, high-quality entertainment experiences tailored to our markets. This launch underscores Playson's strategy of entering high-growth markets through collaborations with reputable, high-impact operators, while simultaneously reinforcing Betika's standing as a premier gateway for global gaming content in East Africa. 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) -   ELA Games is getting ready to take the stage at the forthcoming SBC Summit Malta to discuss the ongoing evolution of casino content. Represented by Senior Business Development Manager Petr Vonarshenko, the studio will take part in an upcoming session exploring how modern slots are evolving into shared, narrative-rich experiences. The panel, which is part of the “Product Visionaries” track, is titled Casino Product Innovation & Content: The Future of Slots. The session will push industry leaders to look past traditional solo playing experiences and explore the shift toward socialised gameplay. Discussions will cover growing demand for co-op jackpots, friend challenges, and audience-influenced features, as well as how data-backed design is effectively building engaged “micro-audiences.” As the lines between gaming, pop culture, and streaming series keep blurring, the panel’s agenda aligns closely with ELA Games’ core focus on narrative-led development. The conversation will specifically look at how cinematic storytelling, branded crossovers, and episodic content drops are reshaping modern slot design, turning solitary spins into dynamic, interconnected worlds. Joining Vonarshenko on the panel are Janick Bonnici (Principal Gaming Content Manager at Betsson Group) and Steve Cutler (CEO and co-founder of KALAMBA). The session will be moderated by Arjan Korstjens (Principal at the Casino Marketing Academy). The panel will be held at the InterContinental Hotel, Malta on Wednesday, 29th April 2026, running from 15:00 – 15:45 CEST | 14:00 – 14:45 BST. 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, the award-winning game development studio, has launched Season of Legends, a new year-long network campaign designed to foster continuous player engagement through a four-part seasonal structure, beginning with a €512,000 spring edition. Building on the success of its prior Big Adventures campaign, which achieved significant engagement over a nine-month period, Season of Legends introduces a more dynamic, seasonal approach. The campaign is divided into four distinct three-month phases, each featuring updated mechanics, new prize pools, and enhanced opportunities for both operators and players. The spring edition, which commenced in March, has been strategically timed to leverage post-winter player reactivation trends, assisting operators in rebuilding player momentum and achieving early-year growth. At the heart of the new campaign is the introduction of the inaugural mechanic, Infinity Prize Drops. Operating continuously throughout each month, Infinity Drops provide daily cash rewards that are not tied to traditional tournament phases, thereby ensuring sustained engagement. In addition to this, the spring edition incorporates a multi-layered structure that includes a Tournament and a Wheel of Fortune, each running across four phases per month. These phases occur from the 1st-5th, 9th-13th, 17th-21st, and 25th-29th, generating regular peaks in activity, while Infinity Drops maintain consistent player participation between these phases. The €512,000 spring prize pool will be distributed across March, April, and May, with a unified leaderboard encompassing all participating operators. Players accumulate points through every qualifying spin across a selection of Evoplay’s most popular titles, including Hot Triple Sevens, Piggy Bank: 3 Pots Bonanza, and the Penalty Shoot-out series. Diana Larina, Head of Marketing at Evoplay, stated: Season of Legends represents the next stage in the evolution of our network campaigns. With Big Adventures, we witnessed the considerable effectiveness of long-term engagement, and this new format elevates that even further. By incorporating a seasonal structure and mechanics like Infinity Drops, we are equipping operators with the tools to sustain consistent player activity, rather than depending on short-term surges. This is merely the beginning, and we are eager to build momentum throughout the year. 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) -   Agreegain, a comprehensive casino solutions provider, has broadened its game selection by integrating Amusnet’s titles via its collaboration with IMK 365, giving players access to even more thrilling content. Established in 2019, IMK 365 acts as an official distributor for Amusnet— a company that will mark seven years of industry contributions in 2026. IMK 365 has seen consistent market expansion and robust commercial progress, currently boasting a catalog of over 240 games, such as video slots, roulette, video poker, live casino offerings, and Keno. Thanks to this collaboration, Agreegain’s operator partners will get access to high-performing online slots like 20 Golden Coins and Candy Palace, along with a diverse array of other games that combine engaging gameplay with eye-catching graphics. Maria Afzaal, Senior Partner Manager at Agreegain, said: We’re excited to reveal our partnership with IMK 365 and the inclusion of Amusnet’s content— a provider renowned for creating high-performing, player-focused games. Adding their varied and innovative catalog to our aggregation platform greatly boosts our offerings for operators across the globe. This collaboration not only improves the range and quality of games accessible via our network but also highlights our dedication to working with industry leaders who align with our goals of growth, dependability, and outstanding player interaction. Amusnet’s RTP approach, which prioritizes players, means these games not only increase engagement but also boost long-term player value, guaranteeing a top-tier experience for users in regulated markets. Vasil Ganev, CEO at IMK 365, said: We’re delighted to announce our partnership with Agreegain, a top aggregator of online casino games. By merging our focus on delivering high-quality casino content with Agreegain’s professional approach and industry knowledge, we’re confident this collaboration will create substantial value and lasting success. We’re eager to build a solid partnership and achieve great results as a team. 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 District of Columbia could become the next US market to regulate iGaming platforms, following the introduction of the Internet Gaming and Consumer Protection Act by a local lawmaker. Council Bill 260656, introduced last Thursday by Councilmember Wendell Felder, aims to legalise online casinos within the district, while also enacting a ban on online sweepstakes casinos — unlicensed gambling operators that utilize a dual-currency payment system. DC’s decision to ban sweepstakes casinos aligns with broader national sentiment across the US, as officials work to ensure gambling sectors do not slip through the gaps in existing regulatory frameworks. For violations of the sweepstakes casino ban, the bill outlines that offenders will face civil fines of up to $100,000 per incident, with penalties increasing to $500,000 for repeated violations. DC’s Attorney General will also have the authority to pursue legal action against online sweepstakes casinos using ‘restitution and disgorgement’ enforcement measures. Should the iGaming act be passed, the district will join Indiana and Maine as US jurisdictions that have banned online sweepstakes casinos in 2026. Felder noted in a letter to the DC Council: “Inaction carries tangible, real-world consequences. Without a formal legal framework, revenue continues to flow to unregulated operators, consumers remain exposed to potential harm, and the district falls behind neighbouring jurisdictions that are advancing with regulatory efforts.” That said, not all efforts by US states to prohibit sweepstakes casinos have been successful, with both Mississippi and Maryland falling short of their goals. The bureaucratic hurdles both states faced when attempting to ban sweepstakes casinos highlight that DC still has significant work ahead if it hopes to eradicate the local sweepstakes sector. The Evolution of iGaming As the district seeks to regulate iGaming, it has confirmed the market will be overseen by the Office of Lottery and Gaming (OLG), which will be tasked with implementing the bill’s tax revenue structure and licensing requirements, and issuing operator and supplier licences to eligible applicants. Interested parties will be required to pay a $2m application fee for an initial five-year term operator licence, with renewal fees set at $500,000. There is no cap on the total number of licences that can be issued. Individuals aged 21 or older will be permitted to place wagers on iGaming platforms, while a 25% tax rate will apply to operators based on their adjusted gaming revenue. The act will also allow operators to carry over any reported negative gaming revenue to the following month. Felder commented: “This bill takes a practical, data-informed approach to strengthening consumer protections, modernising our gaming framework and capturing revenue that is currently flowing outside of the district’s oversight.” According to data shared by Felder, roughly $700m was wagered by DC residents with unlicensed and offshore operators in 2024, with the lawmaker urging the district to follow the lead of other US states that have regulated iGaming, including Michigan, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The Department of Behavioural Health is set to receive the first $500,000 of tax revenue generated from online casino gaming, which will support ‘prevention, education, treatment, referral and recovery services related to gambling addiction and related behavioural health needs’. Additionally, the Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking, the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants and the Department of Employment Services will each receive 30% of the remaining tax revenue, while the Department of Health will receive 10%. Felder added: “Initial annual tax revenue could reach tens of millions of dollars, with growth expected as the market matures. These funds can support critical priorities, including behavioural health services, responsible gaming programs and broader community investments.” Want to stay updated on similar stories? Check out the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the go-to destination for all multimedia content from SBC, where our team takes an in-depth look at the top stories across the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate and payments industries. 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) -   Kenyan gambling operators and industry groups have voiced fierce opposition to the government’s proposed 2026 licensing legislation, cautioning that it might severely disrupt the sector. Stakeholders labeled the intended fee framework as “unreasonable, unprecedented, and punitive,” pointing to worries about escalating operational expenses. These concerns were shared during public consultation meetings organized by the Gambling Regulatory Authority at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre from March 31 to April 1, 2026. A major area of disagreement is the proposed fee structure, which features steep application costs, higher security bond obligations, and a new 10% levy on advertising expenditures. Operators contend these additions would pile onto existing taxes and impose unsustainable strain on licensed businesses. Many warned that such measures could push operators toward offshore markets, reducing tax revenues and weakening regulatory oversight. Industry representatives also drew attention to potential economic impacts, including business closures and job losses. Paul Mutegi from the Association of Gaming Operators in Kenya (AGOK) stated: We’re already a very heavily taxed industry, and you’re taxing the same base. The punters are still the same. So even the 15 per cent GGR that you know pays for sporting infrastructure that’s going to go away, or it’s going to take a very, very big hit. If indeed we push for this new cost regime. Questions were also raised regarding inconsistencies in the proposed fee structure. Judith Kiragu challenged the rationale behind the application fee exceeding the license fee, noting: The application fee is higher than the license fee. It is KES5 million ($38,684), while the license fee is KES4 million ($30,947). How can an application fee, which is just for obtaining a document, be higher than the license fee? Further criticism focused on capital requirements for foreign operators, including a KES100 million paid-up capital threshold and a KES200 million security bond. John Mutua also pushed back against new fees on jackpot products, commenting: We propose to waive all the introduced fees. Jackpot is still a product like any other. You do not charge fees for any of the other products that we have. Mutua additionally criticized proposed compliance measures—such as quarterly capital adequacy checks—describing them as “too frequent” and burdensome for operators. Despite the backlash, the GRA has defended the bill, arguing that Kenya’s gambling laws are outdated and require modernization. Director General Peter Karimi emphasized that consumer protection remains the priority, stating that player responsibility, responsible gambling, and safeguarding players are their primary concerns as regulators. The consultation period is scheduled to close on April 13, 2026, after which the final draft will move to Parliament. The outcome will play a key role in shaping the future of Kenya’s regulated gambling market. 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.