Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - NagaCorp saw a significant increase in its 2025 earnings, driven by improved revenue and EBITDA across various sectors at its NagaWorld complex in Phnom Penh. The growth was fueled by robust mass-market results, increased VIP engagement, and the introduction of gaming products with better margins. Good to Know NagaCorp's net earnings for 2025 totaled $309.9 million. Total revenue for the group increased by 26.2% to approximately $709.7 million. The introduction of side bets and an improved win rate contributed roughly $39 million in additional income. NagaWorld Boosts NagaCorp’s Financial Performance The company reported that its annual net profit climbed to $309.9 million, a substantial rise from the $109.6 million recorded the previous year. The 2024 figures had been impacted by a $89.1 million non-cash impairment charge related to a resort development in Vladivostok, Russia. For 2025, revenue reached nearly $709.7 million, representing a 26.2% increase, while EBITDA surged to $404.4 million from $202.8 million in 2024. This led to an EBITDA margin of 57.0% and a net profit margin of 43.7%. Management attributed these improvements to increased business volumes and a strategic emphasis on the mass market. They also highlighted the success of high-margin offerings like side bet games, which enhanced the gaming experience and boosted overall profitability.Gross gaming revenue (GGR) at NagaWorld grew by 27.4% year-on-year to $691.6 million. Revenue from mass-market tables rose 27.2% to $342.4 million, while electronic gaming machines in the mass segment saw a 13.5% increase to $142.6 million. The company noted that mass-market success was supported by a 12.6% rise in business volume and a win rate of 22.9%. The implementation of side bet games helped elevate win rates throughout the year, contributing an estimated $39 million in extra revenue. The premium mass segment also played a key role, with high-spending visitors frequenting high-limit zones, improving table yields and shifting the customer demographic. Premium mass revenue now represents 38.5% of the total mass-market table GGR, up from 33.9% in the prior year. The VIP sector showed growth as well. Revenue from house-managed "premium VIP" services increased by 32.1% to $136.2 million, with rolling volume jumping 51.6% to $5.50 billion. This recovery was linked to an influx of high-value business travelers to Cambodia and increased spending by top-tier VIP clients.Referral VIP revenue climbed 57.2% to $70.4 million, supported by a 17.2% increase in rolling volume to $2.32 billion. NagaCorp announced an interim dividend of $0.0109 per share, totaling $48.3 million, scheduled for payment on August 7. This represents a 30% payout ratio based on earnings from the latter half of 2025. Management stated the dividend underscores their commitment to growth and shareholder returns. Despite the termination of a funding agreement for the Naga 3 expansion in December, the company remains committed to the project. Previous updates suggested that the project's scope and budget might be adjusted. 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) - Taiwanese law enforcement officials announced they dismantled a cross-border money laundering operation connected to illicit online gambling. The authorities estimate that the criminal organization transferred approximately TWD33 billion, equivalent to roughly US$1.03 billion, via transactions at Macau casinos. Good to Know Taiwanese officials stated the case encompassed approximately TWD33 billion in alleged illegal funds. Law enforcement reported that the scheme utilized 85 credit cards and culminated in 20 apprehensions. Investigators characterized the case as unprecedented for Taiwanese police. Taiwan Connects Macau Casino Chip Acquisitions to Online Gambling Proceeds The investigation commenced in the latter half of 2025, when Taiwan's Criminal Investigation Bureau tracked questionable money movements from numerous bank accounts associated with online gambling and fraudulent activities. The bureau indicated that funds were transferred into accounts controlled by certain individuals and subsequently applied to credit card balances. Investigators revealed that the organization enlisted third-party intermediaries in Taiwan to function as card-processing operatives. Surplus payments were purportedly placed into these accounts, thereby increasing their credit ceilings. Subsequently, the agents allegedly employed the cards to purchase substantial quantities of casino chips at Macau gaming establishments, redeem the chips for cash, and exchange the money into Hong Kong currency. Officials noted that the arrangement additionally enabled participants to take advantage of international credit card expenditure rewards. Essentially, the network stands accused of employing casino chip acquisitions as a mechanism for transferring and laundering gambling profits across national boundaries. Authorities reported that the alleged sum laundered abroad totaled approximately TWD33 billion. According to local media accounts referencing a police briefing on Monday, the operation involved 85 credit cards and led to the detention of 20 individuals, among them two alleged masterminds.The bureau declined to specify the duration of the purported scheme's operation. Nevertheless, investigators deemed it the inaugural case of this nature discovered by Taiwanese authorities. Items confiscated during the operation comprised approximately TWD230.95 million held in bank accounts, roughly TWD2.62 million in physical currency, along with currency-counting devices, cellular telephones, and credit cards. 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) - Pagcor has designated Gaming Laboratories International LLC as the first independent testing laboratory for iGaming in the Philippines. This approval comes as the regulator intensifies oversight of the rapidly growing online gaming market. Good to Know GLI is the first company to gain accreditation under Pagcor’s new system. B2B iGaming suppliers in the Philippines are now required to hold accreditation. GLI will employ its GLI-19 standard to test platform fairness, security, and integrity. GLI Earns First Accreditation Under Pagcor’s New Rules GLI stated that this accreditation allows it to test and certify iGaming platforms in the Philippines. Under the new framework, all B2B suppliers must meet stricter regulatory and technical standards. The company noted it will apply “GLI-19: Standards for Interactive Gaming Systems” when evaluating submissions. According to GLI, this standard is already utilized in multiple jurisdictions. Pagcor Chairman and Chief Executive Alejandro Tengco said regulated gaming markets “ensure a safer and more sustainable gaming industry for all to participate in”. He further added: “Pagcor now requires all iGaming B2B suppliers operating in the Philippines to be accredited to ensure they comply to the rigorous requirements needed to protect iGaming players.” GLI President and CEO James Maida expressed thanks to Pagcor “for the trust” it continues to place in GLI. 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) - Alumni of the prediction market platform Kalshi are securing as much as $35 million for a new venture fund dedicated to startups in the prediction market space. This initiative serves as a further indicator that investor attention is shifting from trading platforms themselves to the underlying infrastructure that powers event-driven markets. Good to Know 5c(c) Capital intends to back approximately 20 startups within the coming two years. The fund's focus is on firms involved in market making, index creation, and tools for prediction markets. Initial supporters already feature prominent figures connected to Kalshi, Polymarket, and leading crypto and fintech investment networks. New Fund Targets the Plumbing Behind Prediction Markets A new investment vehicle named 5c(c) Capital is forming to target one of online trading's most rapidly expanding areas. According to regulatory documents and sources close to the fundraising, the effort is spearheaded by two early Kalshi employees and aims to gather up to $35 million. Rather than investing directly in consumer prediction platforms, the fund is targeting the foundational layer below them. This encompasses market makers, pricing mechanisms, index offerings, liquidity solutions, and essential infrastructure for event-based trading. Put simply, 5c(c) Capital is evaluating the components that enable prediction markets to operate more efficiently, price more swiftly, and expand more seamlessly. This focus is significant as the sector has expanded far beyond a niche. Both the regulated platform Kalshi and the on-chain platform Polymarket have reported consistent monthly trading volumes in the tens of billions, attracting increased interest from traders, developers, and institutional investors. Consequently, venture funding is now flowing not just to the marketplaces but also to the supporting software, data services, and trading frameworks.As reported by ChainCatcher, Kalshi CEO Tarek Mansour and Polymarket CEO Shayne Coplan are among the initial investors committed to the fund. Backers associated with Andreessen Horowitz, Ribbit Capital, and Multicoin Capital are also participating. This combined support is notable for a market frequently divided between regulated and crypto-native segments. Publicly, relations between the sector's leading companies have sometimes appeared contentious. Coplan has previously referred to Kalshi as "a Polymarket copycat" in interviews, as the two vie for liquidity, market listings, and regulatory positioning. Despite this, capital from both sides is now aligning behind a common broader belief: for the prediction market category to continue its growth, it requires improved infrastructure. An individual involved in the fundraising, who spoke anonymously, succinctly captured this rationale. "What we’re seeing now is investors underwriting the rails and tools that make these markets possible, not just the flagship venues," the person said. For entrepreneurs developing prediction markets, event contracts, index products, trading APIs, liquidity systems, or market-making technology, this represents a crucial signal. Investor attention is no longer concentrated solely on the most prominent consumer brands. Investment is also beginning to move into the sector's foundational "picks-and-shovels" layer, where the quality of infrastructure, tools, and execution can determine the ultimate winners. 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) - IGT is eliminating approximately 700 positions across its global operations, as per an internal memo distributed Monday by chief executive Hector Fernandez. This reduction comes after a review of operations following the merger of IGT's gaming and digital business with Everi Holdings Inc. Good to Know IGT is downsizing its global workforce by around 700 employees. A report indicated the layoffs impact roughly 10% of the total staff. Hector Fernandez stated the company aims to streamline its structure and reduce redundancy. IGT Implements Job Cuts as Post-Merger Review Restructures Business A new phase of restructuring is taking place at International Game Technology Plc. In a staff memo, Hector Fernandez announced that IGT will reduce its global workforce by approximately 700 employees as management seeks to align resources with current business priorities. The layoffs were first reported by the Las Vegas Review-Journal, which noted the job cuts would impact roughly 10% of the total staff. Fernandez, who assumed the CEO role in December, informed employees that this step was necessary to streamline operations and position the group for future growth.This decision follows a significant corporate transformation. The current IGT was formed by merging IGT Plc's gaming and digital business with fintech firm Everi Holdings Inc in a $6.3 billion deal involving funds associated with Apollo Global Management Inc. The transaction was finalized in July of last year. Fernandez mentioned that leadership spent the past few months evaluating the business and making what he called strengthening decisions. “We looked into our areas of focus, our operational methods, and how our structure supports our strategy,” Mr. Fernandez stated. From this review, job cuts emerged. “As part of this evaluation, we also had to make tough decisions regarding our organizational structure, and this process has led to a difficult yet necessary step,” he added. He also noted that a significant portion of the challenging work is already finished. In his words, “much of the foundational work required to build a stronger, more competitive organization” has now been completed.Management is presenting the layoffs as part of a broader efficiency initiative rather than a one-time cost-cutting measure. “The changes we are announcing today are part of our effort to simplify our structure, reduce redundancy, and enable us to operate with greater clarity and speed,” he noted. Employees affected by the layoffs will receive support packages, as per the memo. “For those departing IGT as a result of this action, we are committed to providing severance pay, outplacement assistance, and transition resources,” the CEO stated. Fernandez also sought to direct attention to the company's future and the remaining workforce. He added: “What is important now is how we progress together: supporting one another, focusing on our priorities, and continuing the work that will shape the next chapter of our company.” He concluded with a message directed at customers and execution. The streamlined IGT, he said, “will continue to drive innovation, execute our strategic priorities, and deliver the high-quality service our customers anticipate,” Mr. Fernandez concluded. 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) - According to fresh data from StreamHatchet, Stake was significantly ahead of all other operators in gambling-focused stream titles at the beginning of 2026. The report highlights a substantial divide between Stake and the competition, while also indicating that prediction market brands are gaining notable momentum across Twitch and Kick. Good to Know In January 2026, Stake was mentioned in 6,600 stream titles on Twitch and Kick, accounting for 60% of all iGaming brand references. Kick hosted the top ten iGaming livestreamers, who collectively amassed 88.4 million hours watched in January. Polymarket and Kalshi led the prediction market category, with 12,000 and 11,700 mentions respectively. Stake Builds A Clear Lead In Gambling Stream Titles The standout figure is impossible to overlook. StreamHatchet identified Stake being mentioned in 6,600 stream titles across Twitch and Kick in January 2026. This accounted for 60% of all tracked iGaming mentions in the report, placing the brand far ahead of every direct competitor in terms of gambling streaming visibility. The rest of the ranking was not even close. 1xBet came next with 1,800 mentions, followed by Betano (837), Winamax (653), FanDuel (597), PokerStars (270), and bet365 (214). Put simply, Stake did not merely top the list—it occupied a distinct tier. A major factor seems to be the close connection between Stake and Kick. Kick is owned by Stake’s parent company, and StreamHatchet content manager Mark Rowland noted that Stake provides many Kick streamers with a bankroll to use during on-air gambling sessions. This arrangement helps clarify why the operator’s name features so frequently in stream titles, particularly when sponsorships and branded credits are part of the agreement.Kick Sits At The Center Of Gambling Livestreaming Twitch still commands a larger portion of the overall livestreaming market, but gambling content has found a more welcoming environment on Kick. The platform has adopted a more permissive stance toward gambling streams, which has enabled it to draw many of the top figures in the category. According to the report, the top ten iGaming livestreamers all streamed on Kick in January. Together they generated 88.4 million hours watched. Trainwreckstv led that group with 15.7 million hours watched, making him the biggest iGaming livestream draw in the period covered. Commercial agreements also help account for why certain brands continue to appear. Rowland stated that operators frequently collaborate directly with streamers, providing them with wagering credit in exchange for exposure that includes brand mentions in titles. Beyond Stake, he cited broader sports and esports sponsorship efforts as another factor boosting visibility for operators such as 1xBet and Betano. Both football and esports have large streaming audiences, particularly in Latin America and Spain, meaning branding linked to these ecosystems can reach a wide audience. Twitch Restrictions Help Shape The Market Not all platforms have taken the same approach. Twitch permits some gambling content but prohibits streaming for specific gambling sites, including Stake and Rollbit, due to concerns related to consumer protection and licensing.This policy shift followed a broader backlash in 2022, when several prominent creators expressed concerns about the risks of gambling content for younger viewers and individuals susceptible to addictive behavior. Rowland identified that period as a pivotal moment in how Twitch managed the category. Consequently, Kick secured a stronger opportunity to become the primary platform for gambling-focused livestream content. Prediction Markets Are Pulling In More Attention Too The report was not limited to casino and sportsbook brands. Prediction markets also recorded robust figures and are now occupying more space in betting-related conversations across livestreaming platforms. Among betting and prediction market brands, Polymarket led with 12,000 mentions in January 2026. Kalshi was close behind with 11,700. FanDuel took third place with 8,800, followed by PrizePicks (5,300) and DraftKings (3,300). 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) - Polymarket has revised its rulebook amid growing pressure regarding the integrity of prediction markets. On Monday, the company announced it had implemented Enhanced Market Integrity Rules across both its DeFi platform and its CFTC-regulated U.S. exchange, introducing new restrictions targeting insider trading and market misconduct. Good to Know Polymarket now prohibits trading that relies on stolen confidential data, unlawful tips, or the ability to influence specific events. New Market Integrity sections outline the operation of these rules and guide users on how to report suspicious behavior. This update follows closely on the heels of Polymarket’s announcement of a sports integrity collaboration with Palantir Technologies and TWG AI. Polymarket Clarifies Who Is Restricted From Trading Specific Markets A key component of the update is straightforward: Polymarket is working to clarify which individuals should avoid specific trades. Under the new guidelines, users are forbidden from trading if they possess stolen confidential information related to an event’s result or a connected outcome. Additionally, they cannot trade using illegal tips provided by someone who had a fiduciary duty or obligation of confidence and was not legally permitted to trade on that information themselves. Polymarket has also introduced a third category of forbidden behavior. Individuals with sufficient authority or influence to impact an event’s outcome are not allowed to trade contracts associated with that event. The company provided a clear example in its public documents: a U.S. Congress member should refrain from trading contracts related to a particular legislative bill. This is significant because prediction markets have faced criticism over whether politically connected or otherwise well-informed traders can gain an advantage before the general public becomes aware. Recent Associated Press reporting noted that both Polymarket and Kalshi have strengthened their rules as legislators expressed worries about insider information, sensitive geopolitical developments, and public trust in event trading markets.Neal Kumar, Chief Legal Officer of Polymarket, said: “Markets thrive on clarity. These rule enhancements make our expectations abundantly clear for every participant across both platforms and highlight the compliance infrastructure we have already built. “As Polymarket continues to scale, we will build on our foundation with clear communication to Polymarket’s users to ensure our markets do what they do best — surface truth.” In addition to addressing insider trading, Polymarket stated that both platforms already prohibit fraud, wash trading, spoofing, fake transactions, front-running, self-dealing, attempted market manipulation, and other actions that can disrupt fair and orderly markets. The new Market Integrity pages now detail the practical application of these rules and provide users with dedicated channels to report suspicious activity.The timing of this update is intentional. As sports and political prediction markets gain increased visibility, Polymarket has been seeking to demonstrate to leagues, regulators, and users that it can more rigorously oversee sensitive contracts. Last week, Major League Baseball revealed a multi-year partnership with Polymarket focused on official data and branding, while also emphasizing the need for integrity protections for baseball-related markets. Polymarket also recently disclosed a separate collaboration with Palantir Technologies and TWG AI to develop a sports integrity platform—another indication that surveillance and monitoring are becoming core to how prediction exchanges present themselves to the 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) - Planet Hollywood Resorts International is preparing to make its debut in Georgia through a new integrated resort located in Tbilisi. Developed under a licensing deal with Orbi Group and Block Group, in partnership with Iconic Entertainment, the project is set to become a significant addition to the city's tourism, gaming, and hospitality landscape. Good to Know The project will feature a 500-room Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino in Tbilisi. The plans also include a 600-room Radisson Blu hotel, a casino spanning 50,000 square feet, and a 4,000-seat venue for entertainment. The developers anticipate that the project will generate over 2,000 permanent jobs within Georgia. Planet Hollywood Selects Tbilisi for Major Georgian Resort Moving beyond a traditional hotel debut, Planet Hollywood is lending its brand to an expansive mixed-use development already being built in the capital. The total site will feature two towers housing 1,200 rooms, combining a 500-room Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino with a 600-room luxury Radisson Blu hotel. Furthermore, the design includes a 50,000-square-foot casino floor, a 4,000-seat arena for special events and entertainment, and more than 70,000 square feet of Harvey Nichols retail space. The project will also include various nightlife and dining establishments. This diverse combination gives the development a more significant role than a standard hotel and casino launch. The developers are marketing it as a comprehensive destination centered on hospitality, tourism, nightlife, retail, and live events. Practically, this means Tbilisi will gain a resort complex intended to attract both local residents and international visitors, while also establishing a major employment hub with an expected 2,000+ permanent positions. Robert Earl, the Founder of Planet Hollywood, remarked: “This represents a landmark moment in the ongoing global growth of the Planet Hollywood brand. Tbilisi is a city defined by its unique character and incredible momentum. Alongside our partners, we are building a destination that integrates hospitality, entertainment, and immersive experiences in a manner that is both authentic to the local market and highly ambitious.” The extensive group of partners behind the project reflects its massive scale. Orbi Group, Block Group, and Iconic Entertainment are all participating, with each describing the development as a major milestone for the city and the surrounding region. Tornike Janashvili, CEO of Block Group, stated: “This is a transformative moment for Tbilisi. We are introducing a genuine integrated resort—one that will enhance the city’s international profile, attract large-scale global tourism, and establish a new benchmark for hospitality, entertainment, and economic growth in the region.” Irakli Kvergelidze, CEO of Orbi Group, added: “We are proud to bring the Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino to Tbilisi and to create a destination that will help define the future of hospitality and tourism in Georgia.” Another prominent figure involved in the project is Mark Advent, the founder of the New York New York Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas and a Partner at Iconic Entertainment. He connected the project to Planet Hollywood’s entertainment heritage and the growth potential of the city, commenting: “I have waited for decades for the perfect chance to collaborate with Robert Earl—one of the world’s most renowned impresarios; his creation of Planet Hollywood is part of a legendary legacy. “We are in the business of fun, and he has brought immense joy to guests across the globe by bringing one of pop culture’s most iconic entertainment brands to life. Furthermore, Tbilisi is ready for a development of this magnitude—this will be a landmark destination!” The resort also brings another international hospitality and gaming name to a city that has been increasingly attracting global operators. Tbilisi has seen growing interest from international travelers in recent years, supported by its mix of urban expansion, historic architecture, and a broader push for tourism. In this environment, a branded integrated resort of this magnitude could strengthen the local market's standing in regional competition for events, travel, and casino business. For Planet Hollywood, the development expands the brand beyond its Las Vegas roots and provides a new presence in the Caucasus and Eastern Europe. Further details regarding the programming, timing, and future rollout are expected to be announced in the coming months. 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) - David Sklansky, a pivotal figure in the development of modern poker strategy, passed away at 78 due to heart failure. The three-time World Series of Poker bracelet champion made a profound mark on poker theory, gambling tactics, and the broader narrative of Las Vegas. Good to Know David Sklansky captured three WSOP bracelets and authored close to twenty poker books. The Theory Of Poker introduced concepts such as implied odds and expected value into common poker terminology. His contributions influenced how dedicated players approach poker in cash games, tournaments, and various formats. David Sklansky Changed Poker From Instinct To Theory Many poker players achieve victories, but few transform the game's fundamental understanding. Sklansky accomplished exactly that. Beyond his tournament achievements, he will be remembered for transforming poker into a discipline grounded in mathematics, logic, and strategic long-term planning. His writings formed a cornerstone for countless players across generations. His most famous publication, The Theory Of Poker, originally released in 1978, lies at the heart of his enduring influence. This work helped integrate concepts like implied odds and expected value into the mainstream of poker strategy. Numerous principles that seem routine today were relatively obscure until Sklansky articulated them clearly and constructed a systematic framework. A Gambling Mind That Reached Beyond Poker A New Jersey native, Sklansky demonstrated exceptional mathematical aptitude from an early age. He studied at the University of Pennsylvania and had a short stint as an actuary before the allure of professional gambling drew him to Las Vegas. There, he established himself not merely as a poker competitor, but also as a blackjack card counter and sports wagerer perpetually seeking an advantage.This analytical approach extended well beyond the poker felt. He investigated vulnerabilities in casino games, served as a consultant, and even created a game concept that would later develop into Caribbean Stud, though this venture eventually led to an expensive legal and financial dispute. He also cultivated a reputation for an eccentric personality befitting his brilliant intellect. At one stage, his business card reportedly listed his occupation as a "resident wizard." Books That Shaped Generations Of Players Sklansky also made a lasting impact on poker literature. Doyle Brunson enlisted him to contribute to Super/System, among the most pivotal poker books ever published. He continued writing for decades, producing a later version of The Theory Of Poker tailored for no-limit hold'em and, in late 2023, Small Stakes No-Limit Hold'em: Help Them Give You Their Money. At one point, he achieved a remarkable publishing milestone by placing three distinct titles simultaneously in Amazon's top 100, alongside J.K. Rowling. His anecdotes beyond the written page were equally vivid. During a 2024 interview on Card Player Poker Stories, he recounted being banned from blackjack, participating in rigged political contests, receiving watches rather than bracelets at the WSOP, challenging Donald Trump to a $1 million board game match, and experiencing five armed confrontations. He also maintained a close friendship with casino magnate Bob Stupak and reportedly influenced his decision to construct the Stratosphere, now an iconic feature of the Las Vegas skyline. A Legacy That Also Carried Controversy Any truthful biography must acknowledge the darker aspects of his life. Sklansky publicly acknowledged having "more than a few enemies" within poker circles and felt that his Hall of Fame prospects were diminished by tense relations with certain voters. He also faced accusations regarding involvement in the 2008 suicide of poker player Brandi Hawbaker. In early 2026, he was detained on domestic battery allegations, though prosecutors ultimately declined to file formal charges.Despite these controversies, his position in poker history remains unassailable. Any substantive discussion of ranges, odds, value, and disciplined decision-making continues to reflect the concepts he introduced to the game. 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) - Efforts to legalize online casinos in Maryland have lost momentum during the 2026 legislative session. A referendum bill from Senator Ron Watson was withdrawn, and the companion measure that would have set rules for Maryland’s online casinos failed to advance out of committee before Crossover Day. This leaves the state’s push to legalize online casino gaming in a vulnerable position as the session enters its final phase. Good to Know SB 761—the referendum bill tied to Maryland’s online casino legalization effort—was pulled by Senator Watson. SB 885, which would have established the framework for internet gaming and online bingo, remained in committee. The broader Maryland iGaming plan cannot proceed in its current form without voter approval via a referendum. The two-bill strategy was designed to work together, but that structure now appears to be the main reason the effort has stalled. SB 761 would have put a Maryland online casino referendum on the ballot, while SB 885 outlined how internet gaming and online bingo would be licensed and regulated. Once SB 761 was withdrawn, the path for SB 885 narrowed sharply because the regulatory bill depended on referendum approval. Timing also worked against the proposal. Maryland General Assembly records show both Senate bills were introduced in early February and heard on March 11. Yet SB 885 did not advance from committee before the March 23 Crossover Day deadline—a point in the session where bills that haven’t crossed chambers rarely recover. The Maryland General Assembly’s homepage on March 24 also noted the legislature was nearing sine die, leaving little room for a last-minute save. Opposition came from multiple angles. Delegate Wayne Hartman, who serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, made clear that support within Annapolis was weak. He said: “I feel pretty confident there’s not an appetite for it this year.”He also raised a longer-term concern about state finances. He said: “My concern is, really, next year, after the election, when our deficit continues to grow, what are we going to see to quench the thirst of the majority party here to spend money?” Casino interests also pushed back. Representatives from Ocean Downs Casino warned lawmakers that Maryland online gambling could harm tourism and put local jobs at risk. Worcester County Commissioners shared similar worries, arguing that internet casino play could draw spending away from in-person venues in the region. That argument has surfaced in other states too, where online casino bills often face resistance from retail operators worried about cannibalization—even as supporters say digital gaming can add tax revenue and keep play within a regulated market. For now, legal online casino gaming in Maryland remains out of reach. The state still has six commercial casinos, and Watson’s proposal would have let those operators join a regulated online casino market. But with the referendum bill gone and the implementation measure stuck in committee, online casinos in Maryland look unlikely in 2026 unless lawmakers revisit the idea in a new form later on. 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) - Gamanza Group has solidified its presence in the Swiss online casino sector through a collaboration with Casino Locarno for the Casineo brand. This agreement positions Gamanza's technology as central to a new licensed online casino operation in Switzerland, slated to launch in March 2026. Key Information Casineo operates using Gamanza's comprehensive player account management platform, specifically developed for regulated markets. The brand serves as the online division of Stadtcasino Baden AG, the entity behind Casinò Locarno. Gamanza Engage is also part of the implementation, equipping Casineo with CRM and gamification functionalities within Swiss regulatory guidelines. Gamanza Strengthens Swiss Market Role with Casineo Casineo represents Casino Locarno's inaugural online casino venture under its land-based license, with Gamanza providing the complete underlying platform. This encompasses compliance tools, responsible gaming features, payment processing, data management, and front-end delivery across web and mobile. In a market like Switzerland, characterized by stringent regulations and high licensing standards, such a full-service infrastructure is essential. The partnership also offers insight into the direction of the Swiss market. Switzerland maintains a tightly controlled and closely monitored online casino framework, necessitating that operators entering digital channels adopt technology built from the outset around control, reporting, player protection, and local compliance. Gamanza's existing collaborations with other operators in the country likely contributed to Casino Locarno's decision to select a provider with expertise in highly regulated environments. Tero Vienonen, Managing Director of Gamanza Group, commented:“Casineo is precisely the type of operator for whom we developed our platform – an ambitious new brand entering the online casino arena in one of Europe’s most demanding regulatory markets. “Switzerland imposes an exceptionally high benchmark for compliance and operational precision, and our technology is engineered to meet that standard from day one. We are proud to support Casineo in launching with a seamless and fully compliant player experience.” Casineo leadership echoed this sentiment. Michael Boyschau, Director, Casineo, stated: “Switzerland is among the most challenging markets for launching an online operation. Gamanza provided us with the foundational platform and the regulatory confidence to execute it correctly, and the partnership throughout the process has been exactly what we required.”A vital element of the rollout is Gamanza Engage. This product enables Casineo to manage CRM, loyalty programs, and gamification without exceeding regulatory boundaries. For online casino operators in Switzerland, player retention cannot solely depend on aggressive bonus promotions, making compliant personalization increasingly crucial. Simon Pukl, Director of Product and Business Development at Gamanza Core, remarked: “Switzerland’s regulatory landscape establishes one of the highest standards for online operators, and we are proud to assist Casinò Locarno with a platform specifically designed for such environments. “Our proprietary PAM solution seamlessly integrates compliance, responsible gaming, payments, and front-end delivery into a single flexible platform, empowering Casineo to operate a scalable online business. We are pleased to support Casineo’s brand and product vision and anticipate a long-term partnership.” Nathalie Haspel, Head of Online Gaming at Casineo, noted that the CRM and gamification aspects will help the brand cultivate player relationships appropriately, stating: “Building genuine player relationships in a regulated market demands more than just promotions. Gamanza Engage provides us with the CRM and gamification tools to create personalized, compliant experiences that keep players engaged for the right reasons.” 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.