Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - New research from Uswitch Broadband, which surveyed 2,000 UK gamers, found that the average UK gamer spends £105.27 per year on in-game purchases. Good to Know 78% of UK gamers purchased in-game extras during the past 12 months. The average player makes 66 in-game purchases each year. 86% of respondents stated they later regretted at least one of their in-game purchases. These figures carry extra significance due to the size of the UK gaming market. Ukie reported that UK consumers spent £8.76 billion on video games in 2025, with software spending alone hitting £6.03 billion. This larger market scale helps clarify why microtransactions, battle passes, expansions, cosmetic skins, and in-game currency now form the core of gaming revenue. Fortnite Tops Rankings As Small Purchases Accumulate Fortnite had the highest average annual in-game spend per player across the franchises surveyed by Uswitch Broadband, at £37.16. Call of Duty ranked second at £34.55, while the FIFA series came in at £33.55. The ranking leans heavily toward live-service and competitive games. Roblox had an average spend of £30.80, Counter-Strike hit £28.42, League of Legends landed at £27.34, and Apex Legends came in at £27.33. By contrast, story-focused franchises saw lower average spending. Red Dead Redemption had the lowest average spend among the major surveyed titles, at £18.45, followed by The Elder Scrolls at £19.78 and Gran Turismo at £20.30. This trend aligns with the broader industry model. Live-service games typically sell recurring content via battle passes, seasonal drops, in-game currency, and limited-time extras. Traditional single-player games often rely more on the initial purchase, expansions, or one-time downloadable content. The most popular spending category was gameplay-enhancing content. Sixty-six percent of gamers purchased expansions and downloadable content, with an average annual spend of £13.94. In-game currency was the next most common, with 63% of players spending an average of £13.43 per year, followed by battle passes and seasonal content, which 59% of gamers paid for, averaging £12.22 annually. Loot boxes were the lowest-ranked spending category. Half of all gamers stated they spent no money on loot boxes, with the average total spend on loot boxes sitting at £9.09. Cosmetic purchases also divided the player base, with 48% of gamers saying they never bought skins, outfits, or emotes. Impulse buying is a major factor behind this trend. Uswitch Broadband’s research found that 26% of gamers always or frequently make in-game purchases on impulse. An additional 35% admitted they sometimes make these purchases, even when they normally pause to consider the cost first. Just 15% of gamers said they never buy in-game items on impulse. This helps account for the high rate of purchase regret. In total, 86% of gamers reported regretting at least one in-game purchase. Of that subset, 16% said they frequently felt regret over their purchases, while 4% stated they always regretted their in-game buys. Xbox players ranked among the highest for both purchase frequency and total spending. The average Xbox gamer made 92 in-game purchases per year and spent £142 annually, which is higher than the overall UK gamer average of £105.27. Nintendo Switch players averaged 86 purchases, PlayStation users averaged 85, PC gamers averaged 73, and mobile players averaged 62. Gen Z gamers also spent more than the national average. Players between the ages of 18 and 28 spent an average of £121 per year, demonstrating how heavily younger audiences now engage with digital extras, live content, and recurring game promotions. Experts at Uswitch Broadband commented: “Gamers can follow a few simple steps to keep their in-game spending under control. A great first move is tracking purchases in real time and reviewing transaction histories regularly, so you have a clear picture of how much you’re spending and where the money is going. Setting spending limits before you start playing can also help establish clear boundaries, while turning on account safeguards like PIN requirements or purchase approvals adds an extra layer of defense against unplanned spending.” “It’s also important to pay attention to how in-game prompts are structured to push for quick decisions. Taking a brief pause before confirming a purchase can help cut down on impulse buys, especially during fast-paced gameplay sessions. Lastly, going over your subscriptions, add-ons and recurring purchases on a regular basis can help make sure you’re not paying for content you no longer use or didn’t mean to keep.” In-game purchases and microtransactions also have an impact on player enjoyment. A 2024 YouGov survey found that 71% of UK gamers stated that in-game purchases and microtransactions had negatively impacted their enjoyment of video games to some extent. 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) - Avanti Studios has secured fresh investment as it nears the launch of its first-ever live casino games, after closing an EUR 5 million funding round that brings its total seed funding to EUR 10 million. For an early-stage supplier still developing its first commercial products, this level of interest signals strong investor demand for innovative new approaches to live casino entertainment. The Studio Has a Novel Approach to Live Casino Several of Avanti’s backers are well-recognized names in the global gambling industry. Genting Casinos UK, which backed Avanti in its initial funding round, returned for further funding, further cementing its status as a key investor in the company. The continued participation of an established land-based operator provides Avanti with much-needed credibility and industry insight as it prepares to launch its product lineup. I’m extremely proud of the investor group we’ve put together. Their backing shows not just belief in our company, but belief in the future of our space. Gustaf Hagman, Avanti Studios co-founder Avanti is building a model that stands apart from traditional live studio setups. Its system combines motion capture of real dealers with artificial intelligence and 3D rendering to create digital croupiers that can host games in real time. This concept eliminates many of the physical limitations of mainstream live casino productions, such as constraints on studio space, staffing caps, and limits on the number of active tables. Partner operators can launch multiple custom tables at the same time and offer games in different languages without delays. Company leaders note that this approach delivers improved efficiency and can reshape the pace and overall feel of live casino play. Avanti aims to deliver a smoother experience, cut down on human error, and speed up gameplay while still retaining the authentic feeling of human interaction. Key Partnerships Will Support the Upcoming Launch This new funding round closes just ahead of the company’s first full product launch. Avanti’s first games will launch later this month, marking a key milestone after extensive development and testing. The company has already announced its first commercial deal in Spain with local operator Luckia.es. Avanti’s games will also be accessible across multiple regulated markets through a partnership with Light & Wonder. For co-founders Gustaf Hagman and Jonas Delin, this latest funding round is less about building short-term momentum and more about laying the foundations for a new kind of live casino supplier. Both view the rise of real-time digital characters as a growing trend, that reflects shifting player expectations toward more flexible and interactive gaming formats. We firmly believe that the future belongs to real-time, lifelike, interactive digital humans. Jonas Delin, Avanti Studios co-founder Whether players will embrace this type of product remains uncertain. Even so, investors have shown they are willing to let the company prove the merits of its approach. With funding and partnerships now secured, the next few months will show if Avanti’s unique approach will help it carve out a niche in a market already crowded with well-established providers. 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) - Ocean Downs Casino employees and leadership have not reached a consensus on equitable compensation, leading to discussions of a potential strike just as the peak summer season is commencing. Staff members, represented by Unite Here Local 7, indicate they have reached a critical point following months of negotiations with Churchill Downs Incorporated, the casino's parent company. A Summer Strike Could Be Devastating According to a recent report from local news outlet WBOC, after nearly seven months of negotiations, employees rejected Ocean Downs' purported final offer. Union officials state the vote reflects increasing dissatisfaction with wages that many employees claim are no longer sufficient to cover essential living expenses. The union reported that many non-tipped employees earn approximately $15 per hour, with many making less than $33,000 annually. Even with a proposed increase to $15.90 per hour, employees contend that the disparity between their earnings and expenditures remains too significant. Public support is beginning to grow. Over the weekend, employees and their allies convened outside the casino, engaging in chants and displaying signs, advocating for a fair contract. Union leaders are indicating that further actions may occur if negotiations do not resume. After seven months of bargaining, the company made a last and final offer, and workers were really, really disappointed. Tracy Lingo, Unite Here Local 7 president This dispute arises at a crucial juncture for Ocean Downs, which depends on the influx of visitors characteristic of the summer months. A strike could disrupt business operations and negatively impact one of the casino's most profitable periods. Union representatives have not yet scheduled a walkout but confirm that the possibility remains under consideration. Salaries Have Not Kept Up with Rising Costs This conflict is rooted in long-standing disagreements within the region's gambling industry. Union representatives assert that casinos had pledged to provide stable, family-sustaining employment in Maryland and consistent contributions to public services such as education. However, many workers in this sector feel let down, struggling to meet their financial obligations amidst escalating living costs. Citing research on regional living expenses, the union maintains that a genuine living wage in nearby areas considerably surpasses the current earnings of many Ocean Downs employees. This discrepancy, they argue, has compelled numerous workers to hold multiple jobs as they strive to manage increasing expenses. Ocean Downs management has maintained a largely reserved stance, offering no official comments on the negotiation status. Nevertheless, many employees express disappointment over this continued silence as they await the company's return to the bargaining table with an improved offer. The union has consistently urged for renewed discussions while preparing its members for the potential of further escalation. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - A new poll from Overton Insights—shared exclusively with The Center Square—finds that Americans are far more likely to oppose sports betting legalization than to support it. Merely 31% of respondents said they favor legal sports wagering, while 47% voiced opposition. Poll Indicates Americans Are Against Sports Betting The survey was conducted between May 16 and May 20 among 1,377 registered voters. It revealed that 16% strongly support legal sports betting and 15% somewhat support it. By contrast, 15% somewhat oppose legalization, and 32% strongly oppose it. Another 22% stated they were unsure or had no opinion. Opposition to legal sports wagering cuts across the political spectrum. Among Republicans, support was the strongest but still lagged behind opposition: 32% in favor, 36% opposed, and 32% undecided. More Democrats and independents also opposed legalization than supported it. Support levels also varied by age: around 53% of respondents ages 45 to 54 backed legalization, compared with just 24% of those ages 30 to 44. State-level polling also shows that a majority of people do not support sports betting legalization. For example, a recent Wisconsin poll on online sports betting found only 34% of those surveyed support it. Opposition Persists Even As Progress Is Made On Sports Betting Legalization Overton Insights poll director Mark Cunningham noted that sports betting has emerged as one of the most hotly debated issues at the state level in recent years. Discussions have intensified, especially as more states legalized it following the 2018 Supreme Court decision that paved the way for expansion. Despite this growth, he said voters remain skeptical of legalized sports wagering. Cunningham pointed out that while opposition (at 47%) falls short of an outright majority, public sentiment remains negative overall, with support at just 32%. He also highlighted that many respondents are undecided, suggesting the issue is far from settled even as additional states consider legalization. While the poll data doesn’t explain the reasoning behind respondents’ answers, there are speculations. A recent study by Baptist Health South Florida argues sports gambling could lead to serious health consequences—perhaps this is what many poll participants are worried about. Whatever the case, the debate surrounding sports betting legalization appears set to continue. 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) - In 2026, dayclubs emerged as some of the highest revenue generators along the Las Vegas Strip, a reality that appears to clash with the conventional wisdom that the city thrives most under its neon lights at night. This shift raises the question: what has driven the remarkable success of dayclubs? Luxury Acts as a Key Driving Force A prominent Las Vegas dayclub can yield approximately $40 to $70 million in revenue each year, notwithstanding its typical operating season of only six to seven months. When a dayclub is paired with an adjoining nightclub, the total complex can produce an estimated $80 million to exceeding $100 million annually. Throughout the Strip, the daylife sector infuses hundreds of millions of dollars into high-margin food and beverage earnings every season. Industry operators cite luxury expenditures as the main factor fueling dayclub economics. About 60% to 70% of revenue stems from cabanas and VIP table minimums. In the meantime, alcohol sales—often subject to steep price hikes—add another 25% to 30%. Admission charges and ticket sales typically make up the remaining income. On key holiday weekends, the minimum spend for elite cabanas can fluctuate from $5,000 to well over $20,000, based on the performer headlining the event. High-end liquor bottles that retail for a few hundred dollars are frequently sold for between $600 and $1,000 or more inside the club. Unlike nightclubs that accrue revenue over long operating hours, dayclubs focus the bulk of their activity into a concise six-hour timeframe. Nevertheless, it can be argued that these minimum spend requirements might be a factor in the overall price hikes in Las Vegas that many tourists have lamented recently. This blend of high margins, limited hours of operation, and unwavering demand has established daylife as one of the Las Vegas Strip’s most consistent revenue producers. It has also intensified rivalry among venue operators, who are increasingly striving to set themselves apart via celebrity alliances, inventive multi-level layouts, and upgraded food and beverage selections. Younger Generations Are Reshaping the Market Millennial and Generation Z travelers have been pivotal in redefining hospitality economics. Many opt to spend their time and money on experiences rather than on traditional entertainment centered on gambling or sightseeing. These consumers are increasingly in search of immersive social experiences that are enjoyable in person and shareable across digital channels. Dayclubs are uniquely equipped to satisfy these preferences, integrating live music, luxury features, social mingling, and visually captivating settings within a single venue. As a result, the experience itself becomes a vital element of the travel proposition, prompting guests to splurge on premium access, VIP services, and exclusive stays. Social media has further propelled this trend by enhancing the perceived value of highly shareable moments. For resort operators, dayclubs act not only as substantial revenue streams but also as effective marketing instruments, generating exposure through user-created content that can shape future travel plans. In other Las Vegas developments, the city recently placed second in North America for conventions—a somewhat surprising ranking, given the destination's widespread appeal. 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) - Request Network, a prominent Web3 payment protocol since 2017, has unveiled new features designed to address long-standing needs within the iGaming sector. While iGaming was an early adopter of crypto payments at scale, it has struggled to leverage decentralized technology effectively. Previously, the industry relied on multiple crypto processors with limited reach, leading to friction in transactions and counterparty risks due to fund custody. Today, Request Network is introducing a suite of technologies aimed at overcoming these challenges. Reaching 95% of the global stablecoin supply iGaming operators require the ability to accept crypto deposits from players worldwide, but these holdings are often spread across various chains and tokens. Accepting every token would necessitate managing wallets on each chain or relying on payment service providers, which can limit player choice. With Request Network, operators can now utilize a single wallet and manage global collections through one integration. Leveraging Request Network's decentralized, permissionless, and cross-chain technologies, players can pay with any token they hold, while operators receive their desired assets on their chosen chain, without either party needing to know the other's chain. Through a single integration across seven chains (Ethereum, BNB, Tron, Base, Polygon, Arbitrum, and Optimism), Request Network enables operators to access 95% of the global stablecoin supply and active users. One-click secure deposits for the players iGaming players primarily want a seamless deposit and play experience. However, crypto payments often involve complex steps like bridging, swapping tokens, and managing gas fees, sometimes even requiring penny tests to verify addresses. This complexity can deter players and lead to abandoned transactions. Request Network offers players a secure, decentralized payment page where they can select their preferred chain and token for a single, gasless transaction. The bridging and swapping processes occur automatically in the background. Furthermore, this decentralized page incorporates security features to protect payers from interacting with malicious smart contracts. The outcome is an intuitive and secure one-click deposit experience, boasting one of the highest completion rates in the crypto space. Wallet screening on deposits to protect the recipients iGaming operators accepting crypto face risks such as asset freezing and wallet blacklisting. Often, these screenings occur after transactions are completed, flagging risks only after funds have reached the operator's wallets, potentially leading to lengthy legal processes to unfreeze assets. To address this, Request Network allows recipients to screen sending wallets before funds are transferred. The protocol integrates directly with Hypernative, which provides industry-standard policies to identify and block high-risk funds from reaching the recipient. Players can only deposit funds if their wallet meets the established screening policy. For recipients needing to verify the origin of their funds, Request Network enables the storage of all screening results for future reference. This ensures operators can confidently accept funds from on-chain wallets, reducing the risk of frozen assets and enhancing operational security. Built for the long run, governed by a foundation Currently, iGaming operators, white label providers, and PSPs have limited options for accepting and disbursing crypto payments at scale, neither of which is ideal. One option involves a fragmented global crypto processing market requiring multiple integrations. The other relies on larger providers with fluctuating risk appetites and regulatory coverage, both carrying significant continuity risks. By being decentralized, permissionless, and accessible to all, Request Network is positioned to become the sole integration needed for global stablecoin collection and disbursement. Developed by a community-owned Swiss foundation since 2017 and funded by its REQ token, the protocol offers neutrality and resilience. This results in a unified crypto acceptance technology that is reliable across geographies, while also offering competitive market costs. Tristan Wallaert, CEO of the Request Network Foundation, stated: “Crypto was intended to replace traditional payment methods, but several key components were missing to make that a reality. It remained too complex, with excessive risks for both parties, hindering the free flow of money as intended. At Request Network, we re-evaluated the approach to redefine what crypto payments should entail: simplicity, scalability, reliability, and safety. We now believe crypto is poised for a fresh start.” Gal Sagie, CEO and Co-Founder of Hypernative, commented: “iGaming was one of the earliest and most natural fits for crypto payments, yet the compliance infrastructure required for large-scale adoption has lagged. What Request Network has developed here fills a significant gap. Pre-transaction wallet screening empowers operators to accept funds with confidence, not just optimism. This is the kind of security layer that transforms potential into a functioning market.” About Request Network Since 2017, Request Network has been dedicated to developing, educating about, and promoting the use of open-source, decentralized, and permissionless protocols that provide the infrastructure for on-chain payments and related financial flows. Request Network enables anyone to send and receive crypto at scale, across different chains, without the need for custodial intermediaries. The protocol is developed by a community-funded foundation committed to making crypto payments accessible while safeguarding its participants. To date, over $2 billion has been transacted through Request Network technology. About Hypernative Hypernative offers a real-time monitoring, risk detection, and automated response solution designed to secure Web3 iGaming platforms and in-game digital assets. The platform accurately identifies threats such as NFT exploits, in-game currency manipulation, account takeovers, and vulnerabilities in smart contracts governing game economies, providing crucial time to respond and protect players' assets and the integrity of the iGaming ecosystem. Over 300 clients rely on Hypernative's enterprise-grade real-time platform to monitor more than $100 billion in digital assets across over 70 chains. By analyzing on-chain data and employing advanced detection methods, Hypernative facilitates real-time monitoring of in-game transactions, anomaly detection for unusual asset movements, and automated responses to mitigate risks and ensure a fair and secure iGaming experience. 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) - Professional poker competitor Caesars Andrew Nguyen has been barred from all gambling activities after being linked to an illegal gambling scheme in Chicago, Illinois, and he is now seeking to overturn the ban that effectively blocks him from joining any gambling contests — legal or otherwise. Defense Argues Their Client Should Be Permitted to Pursue His Lawful Profession This is a major setback for the young professional poker player, and his legal team moved to address the issue by filing paperwork with the US District Court in Hammond, Indiana, last Thursday. In a formal complaint, the player’s attorney argues that the illegal gambling case connected to Nguyen’s name should not prevent him from competing legally as a poker player, which is his primary source of income. In reality, Nguyen never had any association with the alleged operation beyond participating as a player. His legal team notes that he never worked as an enforcer or bookmaker, and was instead one of the scheme’s victims. For his part, Nguyen only wants to return to playing cards and competing in legal events. Nguyen was arrested during a police operation that led to a total of 22 people being taken into custody for ties to the Gerodemos Gambling Organization, which ran its operations out of restaurants across both Northwest Indiana and suburban Chicago. The ring was led by a man known as “Jimmy the Greek,” or James Gordemos, who operated the network alongside his associate Dean Gailamas, also known as “Dean Gem.” Nguyen specifically faces charges of running an illegal gambling business, as well as aiding and abetting the transmission of wagering information — accusations that directly contradict the claims made by his legal team. Victim of Circumstance, Not a Criminal Mastermind This is the point where Nguyen’s attorneys go into explicit detail, noting that their client only ever connected gamblers to the group, and never held any ongoing role in the operation as an operator, manager, bookmaker, or owner of any venue used to host gambling games. If anything, Nguyen was himself a victim of the criminal operation, and is even listed as “Victim 3” in official court documents. He was threatened by the outfit over a $7,500 sports bet that he was unable to pay on time. He received cryptic but clearly unambiguous threatening messages regarding the unpaid debt, with Gerodemos stating he would recover the money one way or another. His legal team further emphasized that whatever limited connection he may have had to the Gerodemos operation never took place at any official gambling location, and never made use of his skills or professional connections as a poker player, so Nguyen should be allowed to continue building his career as a poker player. Nguyen’s defense called the ban — which even prohibits him from accessing offshore gambling websites or visiting any licensed poker card room in the United States — an excessive overcorrection, and is asking the court to let him continue working in his lawful career as a poker player. 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 has aligned with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to file a formal legal challenge against the State of Minnesota, following the state's enactment of legislation that will effectively ban prediction markets effective August 1, 2026. Kalshi Joins the Legal Fray Against Minnesota with a Complaint of Its Own With the state already facing regulatory opposition from the CFTC, Kalshi has entered the dispute, requesting an injunction to prevent the law from taking effect. This move is part of a broader legal campaign to prevent state-level legislators from restricting prediction market platforms, particularly those offering contracts based on sports events. The CFTC has previously initiated litigation against Illinois, New York, Connecticut, and Arizona. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has voiced rare support for the industry, criticizing its detractors and labeling them as “SCUM.” Under SF 3432, signed into law by Gov. Tim Walz, Minnesota intends to not only prohibit prediction markets but also classify their operation as a criminal offense. Kalshi contends that this legislation infringes upon the Supremacy Clause of the US Constitution, asserting that the state is attempting to override the CFTC’s regulatory authority over the industry. In its filing, Kalshi maintains that the CFTC holds exclusive jurisdiction over contracts, specifically those “traded on designated contract markets.” Furthermore, Kalshi asserts that the law violates its First Amendment rights. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison remains steadfast, stating: “I’m very concerned about the harms of prediction markets on Minnesotans. Prediction markets are designed to be addictive and prey especially on young people and low-income folks. They help the ultra-rich get richer, and the rest of us get poorer. My office and I are reviewing this lawsuit and will respond in court.” Prediction Markets Facing Pushback Globally Prediction markets are encountering resistance beyond the United States, with various jurisdictions either prohibiting local operations or currently evaluating the legality of these businesses. Both Spain and South Korea have implemented temporary blocking orders against Polymarket and Kalshi while they undergo reviews lasting three to four months. In the meantime, Indonesia has moved to ban Polymarket, reportedly in response to a market that questioned whether the nation’s incumbent President would complete his term in office. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - A Western Washington resident has become the state's latest six-figure lottery winner after hitting the jackpot on a Hit 5 ticket. Washington’s Lottery reported that the lucky player claimed a $630,000 prize following the official game drawing held on Thursday, May 28. Washington Ticket Scoops $630K Top Prize, Resets the Jackpot The winning ticket was bought at the Safeway located at 9620 Southwest 28th Avenue in Seattle. The lottery confirmed that the retailer is entitled to a standard bonus for selling the winning ticket, which in this instance amounts to $6,300. The winning combination was 13, 20, 21, 35, and 40. With tickets priced at $1 and players selecting five numbers from a pool of 1 to 42, the $630,000 payout represents a significant return. Participants have the option to purchase tickets for as many as 25 consecutive drawings or utilize the Quick Pick feature to have numbers randomly generated. Per the Washington Lottery, the jackpot now resets to $100,000 following this win. The Washington Lottery frequently highlights major wins and actively works to locate prize winners who may be unaware that they hold a winning ticket. 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 head of the Nevada Gaming Control Board, alongside his counterpart from Louisiana, has called on the gaming industry to adopt a firmer stance against the burgeoning trend of sports event prediction markets, cautioning that these platforms are circumventing established state regulatory frameworks. “We Have to Look It in the Eye” Addressing industry leaders at the International Conference on Gambling and Risk Taking, held at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, Mike Dreitzer conveyed a strong message amidst growing discussions about platforms that enable users to trade on sports outcomes while operating outside conventional gambling structures. “As an industry, we have to stand for things,” Dreitzer stated. “We have to have standards. That’s not regulatory capture and overregulation. When this wholesale creation comes about, where all of a sudden we have an end run that allows for sports betting in 50 states, we have to stand up to it. We have to look it in the eye and say this is sports betting. It’s wrong for you to do that.” Dreitzer further emphasized that Nevada regulators are not opposed to innovation, but stressed that new products must still undergo standard processes designed to protect consumers. He pointed out that prediction markets operating under federal commodities rules have effectively bypassed state-level gambling regulations, leading to enforcement actions, including cease and desist orders. “We Have to Protect Them” Dreitzer contended that the existing regulatory framework is in place to ensure integrity, prevent underage access, and mitigate risks associated with problem gambling and financial crime. “The standards we have are there for a reason,” Dreitzer asserted. “They’re not consumer unfriendly, but they’re there to protect people.” His Louisiana counterpart, Christopher Hebert, shared these concerns during a joint discussion, expressing full support for Nevada’s position and characterizing the issue as one of public protection and fairness. “We have to protect them,” Hebert declared, referring to it as a “fundamental fairness issue.” Both regulators cautioned that the industry is approaching a critical juncture with the proliferation of prediction-style products across the United States, arguing that a lack of decisive action and oversight gaps could widen, leading to compromised safeguards concerning cybersecurity, responsible gambling, and age verification. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - A sudden power failure halted operations across sections of the Red Rock Casino Resort in Las Vegas late last week, creating an eerie scene as entire banks of slot machines went dark. Winners Received Manual Payments The trouble began shortly after 12 pm on May 29, 2026, when a suspected tripped circuit breaker caused a widespread loss of electricity on the gaming floor. Lights flickered and machines powered down instantly, forcing the resort to switch to backup systems while maintenance crews worked to identify the source of the outage. Casino patrons were quick to notice the disruption, with images of silent, inactive slot machines appearing on social media almost immediately. Meanwhile, staff members navigated the floor to confirm winnings and issue jackpot payouts by hand. The unexpected event transformed one of Las Vegas' most active gaming floors into a partially functional space, with employees working diligently to keep operations running smoothly. More Staff from Closeby Resorts, Brought In A spokesperson for Station Casinos stated that the property promptly mobilized additional personnel from neighboring resorts to assist with the situation, specifically to handle the high volume of hand-paid jackpots and to provide updates to guests seeking information. It took several hours to pinpoint the exact cause of the failure, with power being restored in stages until full operations were back online by approximately 5 pm. Management has launched an internal investigation to determine why the circuit breaker tripped and to assess whether further preventative measures are required. Although the situation was rectified by the end of the day, it served as a reminder of how rapidly technical malfunctions can impact large-scale resort facilities. Temporary power outages are not uncommon in Las Vegas, where intricate electrical grids support expansive gaming areas, dining establishments, and entertainment venues. Similar incidents have affected other Sin City properties in recent years, often stemming from equipment malfunctions, potential cyber threats, power cable theft, or storm-related damage. 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) - Brendan Sorsby's future is set to be determined, or at least significantly impacted, during a Monday hearing before Judge Ken Curry at the 99th District Court in Lubbock County, Texas. The athlete, who is currently suspended from the upcoming NCAA football season, is seeking a court order to overturn the association's decision, which would allow him to return to play. As the hearing progresses, further details have emerged regarding the extent of Sorsby's gambling activities during his time with Indiana, Cincinnati, and Texas Tech. According to a 111-page affidavit obtained and reported by ESPN's David Purdum, citing OutKick, Sorsby placed a total of up to $90,000 in bets over a four-year period. The Scale of Sorsby’s Gambling His gambling began while he was a player for the Indiana Hoosiers and continued through his time at other universities, utilizing platforms such as Hard Rock Bet and FanDuel, as well as fantasy sports platforms like Underdog and PrizePicks. The report indicates that Sorsby's extensive gambling does not appear to be linked to any attempts to use insider information to influence betting markets, and no evidence currently supports such claims. Instead, he was an active bettor across various sports, including college football, the NBA, the PGA Tour, and MLB. Sorsby also enlisted others to place bets on his behalf. His personal wagers amounted to approximately 2,900 bets totaling over $30,000. His friends placed an additional $60,000 in bets for him. A particularly concerning instance occurred during the 2022 season when Sorsby, while redshirting, placed 40 bets on his own team, Indiana, stating it was a way to feel more connected to the team. He maintained that all his bets on Indiana were for the team to win and that he ceased betting on the Hoosiers immediately before his debut game against Penn State. While the NCAA has acknowledged this specific detail, it has also upheld its universal rule: student-athletes are prohibited from betting on any sport that includes collegiate-level competition. Sorsby Pushes Back Against the NCAA Sorsby's defense team has criticized the NCAA's confrontational approach, arguing that the player requires support for his recovery from a gambling addiction rather than further punitive measures. A complaint filed by Sorsby's legal team, seeking an injunction against the NCAA's ban, stated, "Sorsby is currently ineligible to play for Texas Tech due to prior violations of the NCAA’s sports gambling rules. Rather than support a student-athlete’s recovery from a gambling addiction, the NCAA has weaponized his condition to shore up a facade of competitive integrity." Additional betting activity by Sorsby includes 50 bets placed on Indiana's basketball team, totaling over $1,400, and 300 bets on college football amounting to $6,500. He also placed three bets on Cincinnati basketball for a total of $3,500 and paid $5,000 to an individual to place bets for him on NBA, MLB, and PGA Tour events while he was at Texas Tech. 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 Florida Gaming Control Commission and the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office are continuing their joint crackdown on the illegal land-based gambling industry across the state. FGCC and Police Take Down Two Illegal Gambling Locations in Florida In the most recent collaborative operation between the state’s regulatory and enforcement agencies, a total of 69 unlicensed slot machines were confiscated. Raids were carried out on Wednesday, May 27, at two separate sites across Sarasota County. The targeted sting, named Operation Early Morning, involved the execution of two search warrants at 4235 Clark Road in Sarasota and at Bingo Palace at 2029 South Tamiami Trail in Venice. Following the raids, investigators seized 30 slot machines at the Sarasota location and 39 at the Venice venue, along with $62,376 recovered in cash. This action is the latest step against the illegal gambling sector, which has continued to spread across Florida despite regulatory pushback and active law enforcement intervention. Speaking on the latest operation, Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) Chair Julie Brown once again stressed the importance of cracking down on the illegal industry and targeting these unlicensed venues. “Illegal gambling operations are not harmless businesses. They operate outside the law, avoid oversight, create opportunities for crime, and take money from Florida communities. This operation reflects our continued commitment to working with law enforcement partners to protect Floridians and enforce the law wherever illegal gambling activity is found,” Brown added, in remarks on the latest operation. FGCC director of gaming enforcement L. Carl Herold voiced support for his colleague’s comments. He praised a recent decision by Florida lawmakers to introduce two new enforcement units and strengthen the regulator’s response to such illegal venues, noting the change came just in time to address the rapid growth of these illegal businesses. New Divisions Set to Help FGCC Respond to Illegal Gambling Growth in Sarasota She specifically highlighted the new Sarasota County-based enforcement unit, which will enable faster response times, build local partnerships, and apply pressure to bad actors. “Illegal casinos are spreading into communities across Florida, and they require a focused, coordinated law enforcement response,” Herold noted. “We are proud to work alongside Florida’s Division of Gaming Enforcement and their effort to address illegal gaming operations and adult arcades,” concluded Sarasota Sheriff Kurt. A Hoffan, in his comments on the completed operation. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - A new study has sparked fresh doubts about the trustworthiness of the UK’s main gambling survey, indicating that participation figures could be substantially inflated across several activities. The analysis, conducted by Regulus Partners researcher Dan Waugh, contrasts official survey outcomes with industry data and highlights notable inconsistencies. New Analysis Indicates GSGB Might Inflate Casino and Betting Participation The Gambling Survey for Great Britain (GSGB) was introduced in 2023 as a large online survey with roughly 20,000 respondents annually. The UK Gambling Commission has recognized it as a critical reference point for understanding gambling habits and related risks. However, the latest results imply the survey’s projections may not reflect actual activity in the regulated gambling market. Waugh’s research entailed comparing survey answers with data provided by operators regarding casino visits, soccer pools, and betting exchanges. For every category, the survey’s participation numbers were much higher than what operators had documented. For casino activity, the GSGB reported that millions of visits were made specifically for table games over a set time frame. Yet official industry data revealed total casino visits were significantly lower than that—even before accounting for visitors who don’t play table games. This suggests the survey’s estimates could be several times higher than the actual participation level. Study Points to Survey Bias as Primary Driver of Gambling Data Discrepancies In the case of soccer pools, the gap was even more pronounced. The survey data showed a player base far larger than what the sole market operator reported. Betting exchange usage followed a similar pattern—survey estimates were again statistically much higher than those derived from market data. The study explains these differences by citing common issues in survey design. One potential reason is that individuals who volunteer to complete gambling-related surveys are more likely to gamble than the general population. Other problems include low response rates and sampling imbalances that can skew results. Waugh also pointed out that if the survey figures were correct, they would suggest the existence of large unreported gambling markets—something he finds improbable. Instead, he argues, structural biases within the survey are the more likely cause of the discrepancy. These findings are important for policymakers as GSGB data has been used in discussions around gambling regulation and harm reduction. Waugh urges regulators to place greater emphasis on operator data rather than relying exclusively on survey-based evidence. Despite ongoing criticism, the UK Gambling Commission still views the GSGB as one of the most thorough studies of its type. However, as it faces further scrutiny, it’s likely to stoke the debate over its accuracy. 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) - New York federal prosecutors have ramped up their case against former NBA guard Terry Rozier, claiming he accepted a six-figure sum to deliberately cut short his playing time in a game during his stint with the Charlotte Hornets. Indictment Alleges Rozier Assisted Bettors With Planned Early Game Exit Per a newly updated indictment, investigators believe Rozier colluded with a group of bettors to exit a March 2023 matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans early. The alleged plot was meant to impact wagers tied to his individual performance, specifically bets that he would not hit his typical statistical benchmarks, The New York Times reported. Court filings show Rozier had discussed his plans with an acquaintance, who then passed the details on to gamblers. Those individuals are said to have placed large wagers under the assumption that the player would get limited time on the court. Rozier left the game in the first quarter with underwhelming stats and just over nine minutes of playing time. The initial negotiated payment was allegedly around $100,000, but that sum was later reduced after some bets failed to pay out, as his total rebound count was higher than expected, authorities said. The scheme depended on non-public information that was unavailable to the general public and sportsbooks, giving bettors an unfair edge, prosecutors note. Rozier Case Grows As Gambling Scheme Ensnares Additional Defendants However, the case has expanded into a broader probe involving multiple accused individuals and claims of fixed game results and insider betting. One of the charged gamblers has already admitted in court to paying a professional player to manipulate his performance. Prosecutors have identified Rozier as the athlete referenced in that admission. Rozier has denied any wrongdoing. His legal team says the case is built on unreliable testimony from cooperating witnesses who are seeking lighter sentences. His lawyer has also challenged the legal basis of the charges, arguing that recent Supreme Court precedent limits the scope of federal fraud statutes in cases involving intangible information. Rozier, who already faced wire fraud allegations, now faces counts of sports bribery and conspiracy to commit fraud. The NBA and Hornets have also been listed by prosecutors as parties allegedly harmed by the scheme. The case has raised broader questions about the integrity of professional sports in the era of legalized gambling. It has long been assumed that highly paid athletes would have little incentive to risk their careers for comparatively small sums, but the case indicates these risks still exist. Rozier, who earned over $160 million over the course of his NBA career, has not played since his arrest last year. He has filed a motion to dismiss the charges, but a judge has not yet issued a ruling on the request. Legal proceedings are ongoing, and the future trajectory of the case remains unclear. 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) - Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby is seeking to have his college eligibility reinstated after the NCAA imposed a permanent ban on him due to violations of gambling rules. A hearing concerning his request for an injunction is scheduled for Monday in Lubbock County District Court. Key Details Sorsby received a ban from the NCAA following an inquiry into his sports betting activities. Court documents indicate he placed thousands of bets totaling at least $90,000. Sorsby has successfully completed a 35-day program for gambling addiction. Brendan Sorsby's NCAA Gambling Case Details Sorsby does not dispute the fact that he placed bets. Instead, his legal counsel contends that the NCAA should consider the case from a mental health perspective, citing diagnoses of gambling disorder and anxiety disorder. Sorsby is currently undergoing treatment for these conditions. According to court documents reviewed by ESPN, Sorsby utilized the names of friends and family members to place bets at various sportsbooks during his collegiate career. The filings state that these bets amounted to at least $90,000. The documents also reveal that Sorsby placed at least 40 bets on the Indiana team while he was redshirting for the Hoosiers. However, his lawyers deny that he bet on any games in which he participated for Indiana.Sorsby issued the following statement: “Once I became part of the active roster with an opportunity to play, I immediately stopped betting on Indiana. However, my gambling on other sports did not stop; it escalated and became compulsive. “What started small when I was in high school turned into a daily habit of betting on all kinds of sports, including some sports that I didn’t follow and had no interest in like tennis and Romanian soccer. Gambling became an addiction.” NCAA's Response Ahead of Lubbock Hearing On Friday, the NCAA submitted a motion requesting the court to dismiss the injunction. The association argued that reinstating Sorsby's eligibility could lead to "destabilizing ramifications."Sorsby's legal team holds a different view of the case. Attorney Scott Tompsett stated that the NCAA should focus on the actions involved and the underlying medical condition. “Brendan asks only for the NCAA to abide by its commitment to evaluate his reinstatement appeal based on his actual conduct and the mental health condition that spurred it,” Sorsby's attorney Scott Tompsett wrote. This case emerges at a time when college sports are experiencing an increase in betting-related issues involving athletes, teams, and integrity rules. The NCAA has encouraged state regulators to place restrictions on certain college sports betting markets, particularly those involving individual college athletes. A new judge will preside over the proceedings on Monday, following the recusal of Judge Philip Hayes, who holds undergraduate and law degrees from Texas Tech. 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) - Following accusations of unlawful gambling at the poker establishment, Houston law enforcement conducted a raid on Lucky J Social Club Wednesday evening. Authorities apprehended a minimum of three individuals and confiscated over $350,000 in currency and gaming devices. Key Details Authorities stated that three males are confronting misdemeanor counts related to facilitating gambling. Approximately 80 to 90 individuals were present at Lucky J Social Club when the raid occurred. Officials might file additional charges as the inquiry proceeds. Houston Raid Targets Lucky J Social Club The police operation at Lucky J Social Club utilized SWAT team members and drones. Footage captured at the location displayed numerous patrons holding their hands up as officers navigated the premises. The three apprehended males are facing misdemeanor charges for promoting gambling. Nevertheless, officials have not excluded further legal action, and local news sources provided varying arrest numbers, with some reporting up to five individuals detained. Michael Wynne, a former federal prosecutor who has defended Texas poker clubs, informed local press that the case might expand.“My current assessment of this unfolding situation is that there could be further charges, including money laundering, or a federal probe,” Wynne stated. “We will observe what unfolds in the next few days. Additionally, I would not be shocked if we witness additional raids.” Allegations of Casino Games at Lucky J Social Club Texas poker establishments typically function via membership structures where patrons pay fees instead of a traditional rake. This arrangement has allowed many venues to remain operational for years, despite casino gambling being prohibited in Texas. Reports indicate that local grievances regarding Lucky J had accumulated over several months. These complaints likely centered on casino-style games like blackjack or baccarat, as poker clubs already operate openly under the social club framework. Prior to the raid, Houston police dispatched undercover detectives to the venue to monitor activities. According to PokerNews, officers positioned themselves in the waiting area while drones conducted surveillance inside the property.Johnny Chan and the Venue's History The venue holds a longstanding link to the Houston poker landscape. Johnny Chan, a 10-time World Series of Poker bracelet champion, was the former owner of the site during its operation as 88 Social. Chan divested the property in 2021. Subsequently, the club underwent multiple name changes, initially to 101 Richmond in December 2021, then Elite Social Club, and finally Lucky J Social Club under its present ownership. The site had already attracted scrutiny prior to the raid. In 2025, 20 patrons were robbed as they exited the club. Another Houston establishment, the now-defunct Legends Poker Room, also experienced shootings and robberies that same year before shutting down. Increased Enforcement for Texas Poker Clubs The raid on Lucky J occurred just months after the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission targeted The Lodge Poker Club in Round Rock this past March regarding money laundering accusations. That case resulted in frozen assets and staff reductions at the venue. Eventually, a grand jury chose not to indict, and The Lodge resumed operations earlier this week. Nonetheless, the Houston raid demonstrates that Texas poker rooms continue to occupy a precarious legal standing. While clubs may function via memberships, law enforcement retains the power to act if investigators suspect illegal casino gambling or associated financial crimes occurred. 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) - Finland is set to end Veikkaus’ monopoly over online casino and sports betting services on July 1, 2027. This licensing reform has turned state ownership of the firm into a pressing political and commercial issue. Key Things to Note Per Jari Vähänen’s estimates, Veikkaus could carry a total valuation of up to €4.5 billion. The company’s online casino and sports betting division may be valued between €1 billion and €1.5 billion. Finnish political parties remain divided on whether to pursue a full sale, partial sale, or continued full state ownership of the firm. Customer Base Could Be the Core Determinant of Actual Value Potential buyers will not only assess the Veikkaus brand when evaluating a purchase. The company’s customer database may hold equal weight in valuation calculations. Veikkaus has as many as 2.5 million long-standing existing customers. As the country shifts from a monopoly-controlled system to a licensed Finnish online gambling market, this customer list could give the operator a significant head start over private betting sites and online casino brands. “If they cannot retain these customers through the transition, the value of Veikkaus’ licensed business will be far lower. But if they launch their new operations with 2.5 million customers intact, they will dominate the market,” Jari Vähänen told public broadcaster Yle last week.Vähänen, a former senior executive at Veikkaus who now works as an industry consultant, also noted that foreign operators have made inquiries about the company. “Several gaming firms have reached out to us to ask if Veikkaus might be put up for sale,” he told Yle. His maximum valuation estimate for the firm hits €4.5 billion. This figure is calculated using a 10-times multiple on Veikkaus’ annual gaming surplus, which stands at roughly €450 million. He valued the digital gambling segment, which covers online casino and sports betting services, at €1 billion to €1.5 billion. Lotto and gaming machine operations are expected to make up around €3 billion of the total valuation. However, Finland does not have an unlimited window of time to make a decision. Veikkaus’ returns have dropped by nearly half over the past five years, and lengthy delays could reduce buyer interest ahead of the launch of the licensed market.Veikkaus has already split into two separate business units to prepare for the transition. One unit focuses on competing in the open online market, while the other retains control of the remaining monopoly operations. This restructuring gives Finland a more straightforward sale option, but it also makes related policy decisions more complex. Some parties already see little justification for the state to remain involved in the gambling sector. SDP Party Secretary Mikkel Näkkäläjärvi said “the state has no specific strategic interest in owning a gaming company in this scenario”. Mika Lintilä of the Centre Party stated that Veikkaus was “no longer a strategically important company for the state in the same way as it was previously”. Liike Nyt is pushing for full privatization and a public stock market listing for the firm. The Left Alliance opposes this approach, with MP Timo Furuholm defending Veikkaus as a reliable, proven source of government revenue. Coalition parties have adopted a more cautious, gradual stance. The National Coalition Party is calling for a civil service review of the proposal’s market effects and social impact. The Swedish People’s Party has not issued a public position, as Minister Joakim Strand oversees ownership steering matters. The Finns Party and Christian Democrats have warned against using sale proceeds to fund recurring public spending, while keeping gambling harm prevention as a top priority. For Vähänen, the ownership issue arises well before any potential sale takes place. Finland will be drafting regulations for the licensed gambling market while still owning the company that will have to compete under those same rules. “State ownership of a gambling company operating in a competitive market is, at the very least, a questionable approach,” he wrote in a 2024 draft response to the initial liberalization framework. 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) - Eusebio Tanco, chairman of DigiPlus Interactive Corp, believes licensed online gaming operators in the Philippines should adhere to the same standards as publicly listed companies. Key Facts DigiPlus operates BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone in the Philippines. Tanco stated public listings would foster fairer competition. He also connected the idea to efforts against illegal online gambling. Tanco: Listed Status Can Raise Industry Standards Eusebio Tanco used DigiPlus’s annual stockholders meeting on Friday to deliver a direct message on regulation: licensed online gaming firms should face the same transparency, tax, and governance rules as listed companies. “We need to level the playing field in this industry,” Mr Tanco stated. “We are a listed company, we are transparent and report regularly. We follow strong corporate governance, and we pay the right taxes.” DigiPlus is already a Philippines-listed company. Its main brands include BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone. BingoPlus is recognized as the country’s first government-approved online bingo platform, ArenaPlus covers sports betting, and GameZone focuses on casual and arcade games. Another group unit operates casino slot arcades. Tanco argued private online gaming operators do not always face the same public reporting pressure as listed firms. In his view, a listing rule would give regulators, investors, and players a clearer view of licensed operators. He said: “The regulator should require all licensed online operators [in the Philippines] to be listed. I think that’s the only way to level the playing field.” The proposal also ties to a broader policy concern in the Philippine online gaming market. PAGCOR and other authorities have been working to keep more gambling activity within the licensed system, where operators pay taxes and follow national rules. For Tanco, stronger listed-company standards could support that goal. He said authorities should focus on ways “to help transfer the players from illegal operators to the legal, licensed operators.” 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) - U.S. Senator Brian Schatz is drafting a federal bill that would prohibit micro prop bets and grant the Federal Trade Commission authority to take action against firms assisting illegal offshore sportsbooks. Good to Know The legislation would ban wagers on individual, standalone moments during games. The FTC could pursue payment processors collaborating with unlawful offshore sportsbooks. Schatz presented the plan at a Senate Commerce subcommittee hearing focused on sports betting. Schatz wants federal enforcement to target companies that help illegal sportsbooks transfer funds. The Hawaii senator noted the FTC could go after payment processors that knowingly work with offshore operators. This approach won’t fix every gambling issue, he said, but it would give regulators a clearer path into a market often outside U.S. licensing systems. “We think we, legislatively, have a pathway here. It doesn’t solve every problem, and it certainly doesn’t solve every problem as it relates to the challenges that individuals and society [are] facing with gambling,” said Schatz, a senior member of the Senate Commerce Committee.“But if you empower the FTC to go after the payment processors, then they would have a perfect right to go and say, ‘You may not work with these offshore shops if they are not complying with federal law having to do with micro prop bets.’” Micro prop betting would also face a direct ban under the proposal. These wagers focus on small in-game events—like a single pitch, possession, or player action—rather than final scores or broader game results. Schatz said this structure raises both integrity and gambling harm concerns. “Micro prop [bets are] insidious in that [they] can be manipulated by a player or anyone else,” said Schatz. “The more micro you get, the more insidious it is, from an integrity standpoint. But it also taps into the addictive, manic, algorithmically-driven problem that we’re dealing with. I think this particular problem is especially acute and needs to be dealt with immediately.”The hearing occurred as lawmakers reviewed sports betting growth, prediction markets, offshore sportsbooks, and consumer risks. Recent NBA and MLB betting cases have also raised concerns about wagers tied to single-player actions and nonpublic information. 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.