Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - Spanish iGaming content provider R. Franco Digital has broadened its international presence further by securing a significant partnership agreement with GameTech operator Novibet, encompassing various regulated markets across Europe and Latin America. This partnership entails integrating R. Franco Digital’s extensive portfolio of diverse, high-performing games into Novibet’s platform—an move that will not only boost the operator’s selection of premium casino titles but also give players in multiple regions the opportunity to experience immersive, top-tier gaming content. This collaboration further solidifies R. Franco Digital’s reputation as a leading provider in key markets spanning two continents. The initial set of games launched on Novibet’s platform includes Strange Spins, Valentine’s Dates, Aphrodite, Link City, and 40 Super 7 FS. With their impressive gameplay mechanics and local cultural touches, these titles have won over players and serve as an effective tool to elevate Novibet’s entertainment-focused casino experience even further. This move underscores R. Franco Digital’s ongoing commitment to global expansion and demonstrates its readiness to collaborate with top-tier operators in both mature and emerging markets. Javier Sacristán Franco, International Business Director at R. Franco Digital, said: Teaming up with a leading GameTech operator like Novibet is a testament to the quality and flexibility of our content. Their robust presence in both Europe and Latin America aligns seamlessly with our strategic objectives. We’re confident that our recent popular titles—such as Link City and Aphrodite—will strike a chord with Novibet’s audience, delivering the high-caliber entertainment experience players expect. We look forward to a long and successful partnership as we continue to grow together. Fotini Matthaiou, Executive Director of Casino at Novibet, added: Elevating our casino offerings through strategic content partnerships remains a core priority for Novibet. R. Franco Digital’s portfolio brings engaging, high-quality gaming experiences that strengthen our value proposition, in line with our commitment to delivering premium entertainment and long-term player value across our regulated markets. This partnership marks an important milestone in expanding our footprint across Europe and Latin America, as we continue to enrich our content library with diverse, locally relevant experiences for our international audience. 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) - Albania's online sports betting sector is now governed by new regulations approved by the Council of Ministers. This represents a significant transformation in the nation's approach to gambling oversight. The government aims to increase supervision and control over digital betting platforms. Mandatory identity checks for players and logging of all transactions are now required for each online wager. Officials describe this initiative as an initial step toward creating a more transparent and regulated market. In principle, these measures are intended to enhance overall openness. The objective is for betting operators to function with the rigor of regulated financial entities. Their software must go beyond being a simple tool, with websites compelled to adhere to stringent quality benchmarks. This shift likely entails enhanced security protocols and more definitive audit records. Significant responsibility will fall on the underlying platform infrastructure. Companies must demonstrate the ability to uphold secure systems as a prerequisite for licensing. Technical Standards and Customer Protection The regulatory framework establishes clear technical standards for the industry. The Council of Ministers has defined minimum requirements for both hardware and software. Operators may only use certified servers to host online games. Furthermore, mobile applications are required to deploy robust security features. Providers of digital tools or backend services must make substantial investments in dependable, modern technology, with no shortcuts permitted. Under the law, customer registration is a central component. Operators must integrate comprehensive identity verification systems to ensure every new user is thoroughly vetted. Additionally, personal data must be safeguarded, and services are restricted to adults legally permitted to gamble. Fundamentally, these rules are crafted to deter fraudulent activity and ensure adherence to national laws, at least in theory. Financial Oversight and Market Impact The government has assumed complete oversight of the sector's financial activities. All deposits, payments, and transfers are tracked in real-time via government-run systems. Operators must maintain a continuous link with multiple national agencies, necessitating strong data processing capacity. In effect, the government documents every transaction from its inception, promoting transparency and accountability across the system. Offshore gambling websites have long posed a significant challenge for Albania. These unlawful platforms have caused considerable harm, including incidents of money laundering and fraud—most prominently in 2023 when three major scams were uncovered. Licensed firms are obliged to follow strict safety and transparency rules, creating a standard that illicit sites cannot meet. By enforcing these rigorous standards, the government seeks to motivate players to choose licensed operators that offer real consumer protection. The March 2026 announcement ushered in these changes. Moving forward, all new market entrants will be subject to close scrutiny, involving routine software audits and oversight of individual payouts. Clandestine and insecure betting practices are set to be eradicated. Consequently, this regulatory overhaul will affect any business seeking to operate in the market. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Fortuna Entertainment Group (FEG) has reached an agreement to acquire a 70% stake in TOPsport, the leading gambling operator in Lithuania. This deal provides FEG with a controlling interest in the nation's premier betting platform. The Prague-based organization announced the acquisition on LinkedIn, noting it represents a record-breaking transaction for its parent company, Penta Investments. The specific purchase price was not disclosed. TOPsport currently holds approximately 54% of the Lithuanian gaming market and reported an EBITDA exceeding 65 million in 2025. Through this acquisition, FEG makes its debut in the Baltic region, expanding its operations to a total of eight countries. Founded in 2002 as the first licensed betting operator in Lithuania, TOPsport has grown to become the most-visited online gambling platform in the country. It also maintains a physical presence with over 50 land-based gaming venues across the territory. The growth of the Lithuanian gambling sector has kept pace with TOPsport’s expansion. During the first half of 2025, the market saw gross gaming revenues of 131.5 million. Projections indicate that annual revenue could reach 376 million by 2028, with Lithuanians having some of the highest per capita gambling expenditures in Europe. Dieter John, who assumed the role of FEG’s CEO in January 2025, stated: The Baltics are a region offering significant growth potential for FEG. Entering the Lithuanian market by acquiring its leader is a vital move in our determined long-term expansion strategy. The transaction has been submitted to Lithuanian regulators for formal approval. For Penta, the Czech-Slovak private equity firm that owns FEG, this acquisition is likely the largest single investment in its gaming portfolio so far. Established by Jaroslav Hak and Marek Dospiva, Penta manages a $5.5 billion enterprise spanning healthcare, finance, media, real estate, and manufacturing. FEG represents the gambling arm of this portfolio, which reported a net profit of 621 million euros in 2024. Expansion through acquisition remains a key driver for FEG. Originally established in the Czech Republic in 1990 and previously listed on the Prague and Warsaw exchanges, the company came under Penta's full ownership in 2018. In 2025, FEG acquired a 51% stake in lob, the second-largest betting firm in Montenegro. This followed previous acquisitions of Romania’s Casa Pariurilor and Croatia’s PSK Sports, reinforcing its long-term presence in Eastern Europe. The company now operates in seven European markets: the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Croatia, Romania, Montenegro, and Lithuania. With a workforce of over 5,000, FEG continues to expand its team. This growth occurs as Lithuania introduces stricter regulations; amendments effective in November 2025 will raise the legal gambling age to 21 and implement significant restrictions on sports betting advertisements as a precursor to a total ban. FEG itself was previously considered for a sale. In 2024, Penta explored the possibility of divesting the company, with rumors suggesting a valuation of 2 billion euros and JPMorgan involved in early talks, though the plan did not ultimately move forward. 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) - Sri Lanka is considering the introduction of further regulations for its betting sector. The government has set a target date of 30 June 2026 for the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) to become fully operational. Creating this authority would bring both online and physical gambling under a single regulatory framework. This would end the current situation where a significant portion of the industry, particularly online, operates with minimal oversight. In keynote addresses at the Global Game Conference (GGC) 2026 in Colombo, officials revealed the project aims not just to control the industry but to chart a course for its sustainable growth. Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe stated that Sri Lanka is collaborating to foster an environment that encourages innovation and expansion. He added: Technology combined with creativity will propel this industry forward, and Sri Lanka is privileged to participate. He also mentioned that the government will back both local and foreign companies seeking to grow their operations in the nation. He said: From the government's viewpoint, we will provide our complete support to advance this industry domestically and across the region. Officials emphasized the sector's ability to draw big-spending tourists, especially from neighboring regions. Deputy Transport Minister Ranasinghe observed that Sri Lanka's closeness to India makes it a strategic hub for the area. Ranasinghe said: We possess considerable potential for such industries, particularly serving expanding nearby markets like India. The shift is also a response to rapidly evolving market dynamics. Studies show 60 to 70 percent of gambling in Sri Lanka occurs online, complicating transaction tracking and tax collection. The government has aligned the gambling industry more directly with broader economic goals, such as boosting tourism. The sector has recently diversified beyond local venues, moving toward large resorts and luxury travel offerings. Authorities are targeting three million international tourist arrivals by 2026, with gambling projected to yield $250 million annually and bolster public funds via taxation. Recent policy changes support this approach, including raising the gambling tax from 15% to 18% and increasing casino entry fees to generate additional income. For many, the launch of the GRA is a pivotal moment. Attendees at the GGC conference stressed that clearer regulations would boost Sri Lanka's appeal to the gambling sector, especially as several other Southeast Asian countries tighten their gambling rules. Separately, a Diamante Tech representative informed SiGMA News at the conference that interest in Sri Lanka is rising. In principle, more defined regulations could attract a greater number of operators. The representative noted: Based on the exhibitors and attendees, many are from across Asia, and there's a feeling that attention is now turning to the Sri Lankan market. He added that the new policy direction offers prospects for online providers: This is a very positive step… and a strong opportunity. The sector is poised for growth. Despite the optimistic outlook, significant challenges remain. Experts note that formalizing a currently largely informal online market is a massive undertaking, reliant on enforcement capabilities, robust technical systems, and cooperation with international partners, among other factors. By targeting a mid-2026 launch for the GRA, officials signal an intent not only to manage the fast-evolving gambling landscape but also to establish Sri Lanka as a premier regional destination for the industry. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Estonian remote gambling operators have voluntarily contributed over €1.4 million following a drafting error in the 2026 tax law that temporarily eliminated their tax liabilities. These payments, covering earnings from February and March 2026, represent the government's share that would have been collected had the Gambling Tax Act been properly implemented from the beginning of the year. According to ERR News, Ministry of Finance spokesperson Siiri Suutre stated: February donations, including income tax, amounted to roughly €815,000, while approximately €595,000 has been received so far in March. The March total is not yet final, and we anticipate additional contributions. The tax exemption arose because legislative amendments approved in December 2025 inadvertently eliminated lucky games from the tax base due to a drafting error, rendering remote gambling tax-free at the start of 2026. Parliament member Aivar Kokk highlighted the consequences: Games of chance and remote gambling were excluded from this year's tax framework, resulting in online casino games being untaxed throughout 2026. Consequently, lawmakers moved swiftly to pass an emergency technical amendment that restored the 5.5% tax on remote gambling effective March 1, 2026. This adjustment was designed to synchronize tax collection with standard monthly filing schedules, as confirmed by the Riigikogu Finance Committee. The Estonian Association of Gambling Operators suggested voluntary contributions, though only a few licensed remote operators have participated to date. Evelyn Liivamgi from the Finance Ministry noted that companies are reacting variously and cautioned that complete recovery of the lost tax revenue would be extremely challenging. She commented: Experience demonstrates that people are typically far more eager to make commitments than to follow through on them. The Ministry's preliminary estimate places the two-month tax liability at approximately €3.5 million, based on January and February income reports—slightly below the initial €4 million projection. For context, annual remote gambling tax revenue was budgeted at around €27 million. Officials emphasized that the precise shortfall will only be determined after reviewing annual tax filings. The Ministry continues monitoring voluntary contributions, though the revised Gambling Tax Act is now in effect. This situation highlights Estonia's ambitions in the competitive iGaming sector and signals its intent to establish itself as the region's premier online gambling destination. 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) - Thai authorities appear to have stepped up their crackdown on illegal online gambling, targeting the Eu9thaff website network alongside other tech-related offenses the Thai government aims to resolve. On March 13, 2026, the 6th Provincial Police Region—overseen by its Investigation Division 2—launched an operation following directives from government and Royal Thai Police leaders. Senior officials, including the commander of the 6th Provincial Police Region, led the effort, which focused on shutting down gambling sites hosted on Eu9thaff3.com—platforms accused of luring users to place online bets. According to investigators, they decided to intensify their probe into the site—which facilitated online betting—to uncover the network’s operators. After analyzing data and connections, they obtained eight arrest warrants for individuals charged with running illegal gambling via electronic systems and facilitating the transfer of illicit funds. In principle, this action could break the chain of larger financial crimes associated with such platforms. To date, four individuals have been detained in connection with the case. Among them is a 33-year-old woman from Chiang Rai who is believed to have managed bank accounts used to transfer trust funds in a recruitment scam. Law enforcement seized a mobile phone, bank documents, and a 2023 Ford Ranger pickup truck from her to conduct a thorough financial investigation. Next is a 30-year-old woman from Phayao, who is suspected of controlling accounts linked to the platform’s banking system. Authorities took her phone to assist with the investigation. Additionally, two other suspects—a 32-year-old man from Chiang Rai and a 41-year-old man from Chiang Mai—were found to have ties to the network’s financial activities. The latter, who purportedly runs a medical clinic, was arrested in Mae Ai district, where a small amount of ketamine was also discovered and seized. Officials noted that the search for the remaining four suspects continues. Police are tracking money trails and scrutinizing properties to gather evidence for the court—most importantly for violations of anti-money laundering laws. 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) - Over a year has passed since Uzbekistan legalized gambling and online betting, yet the nation has not granted any bookmaking licenses, according to Askarjon Zakirov, a representative of the National Agency for Advanced Projects, who spoke at a recent press briefing. Zakirov noted that although businesses show considerable interest, demonstrated by their active market research and examination of regulatory frameworks, no company has yet formally applied. The majority of operators are still unprepared to satisfy all requirements and will need additional time to finalize their preparations. In addition to the stringent standards and strict conditions set by the government, operators face challenges related to capital requirements, maintaining adequate reserves, implementing player identity verification systems, and integrating with the Unified State Register of Betting and Players. Government officials are developing new measures to safeguard users and minimize the risk of market manipulation. Significantly, the core technological infrastructure has been substantially completed. For example, the national Unified State Register of betting and players has been established and is nearing full operation. Uzbekistan legalized gambling and online betting effective January 1, 2025, followed by the introduction of licensing and regulatory guidelines. Each license lasts five years and costs 500 basic units, equivalent to 206 million soums or approximately 1.5 million rubles, which is the standard fee for new applicants. 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 2026 legislative session in Florida concluded without the passage of any bills targeting illegal gambling. While several proposals moved forward, with one even passing both chambers in differing versions, no legislation was enacted before the session adjourned on March 13. Good to Know SB 1580 came closest but died when the Senate did not take up House changes. HB 189 was the broad House proposal and never reached a final vote. Florida regulators keep the same enforcement tools they had before the session. For the second consecutive year, Florida's legislature did not approve measures that would have strengthened regulations concerning illegal gambling. As a result, illegal gambling arcades remain in a legal gray area, and sweepstakes platforms are not subject to new restrictions. SB 1580 Came Closest SB 1580 represented the most viable opportunity for reform. The Senate passed the bill unanimously in early March. Subsequently, the House made amendments and passed its own version on March 11. With just two days remaining, the Senate did not revisit the legislation. This bill would have established new criminal offenses for individuals who knowingly or recklessly participate in or profit from illegal gambling. It also aimed to extend liability to government employees involved in certifying, licensing, or hiding illegal gaming operations, increase penalties for gambling houses, and impose new restrictions on internet gambling. Another component proposed a Limited Slot Machine Surrender Program, granting operators immunity in exchange for turning in their machines.House Changes Added Friction Amendments made in the House contributed to its failure. One change would have permitted licensed gambling establishments to relocate up to 1,320 feet without losing their licenses. Additional concerns were raised that the wording could inadvertently affect veteran groups. These issues were left unresolved. HB 189 pursued a more comprehensive approach. The extensive, 100-plus-page bill aimed to reform multiple areas of Florida's gambling laws. Its provisions would have prohibited internet gambling and online sports betting not covered by the Seminole Tribe compact, increased penalties for operating or advertising gambling houses, created new violations for illegal gambling advertisements, and expanded the enforcement power of the Florida Gaming Control Commission. It also targeted broader aspects of the illegal gambling trade, such as transporting individuals for gambling purposes, making false claims about machine legality, and implementing harsher penalties for repeat offenders. Despite this, HB 189 stalled before a final House vote. Some of its elements were later incorporated into SB 1580, which intensified the disagreement between the chambers. Other related bills made little progress. SB 1164 and HB 591, which had similar objectives, failed to advance beyond initial committee hearings. SB 204, which emphasized regulatory clarity over new criminal penalties, moved through two Senate committees before also stalling.Illegal Arcades Stay in Play The proliferation of illegal gambling arcades throughout Florida was a primary motivator for lawmakers to address the issue. Many of these venues operate in a murky legal zone, often presenting themselves as amusement arcades or skill-based game businesses. Regulatory action has intensified; in 2025, the FGCC seized $14,474,336 and 6,725 illegal slot machines across the state, more than doubling the approximately $7 million seized the previous year. While sweepstakes casinos were not explicitly mentioned in the primary bills, provisions in HB 189 and HB 591 concerning internet gambling and dual-currency prize models could have applied to them. With the failure of both bills, these potential restrictions are not in effect. 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) - Elon Musk has outlined plans for a chip production project involving Tesla and SpaceX. The proposed facility, named Terafab, would be constructed near Tesla's operations in Austin, with the aim of fulfilling internal demand for AI and robotics chips. Good to Know Musk noted that chip supply is not keeping up with demand from Tesla and SpaceX. The proposed Terafab site would be located near Tesla's headquarters and the Austin gigafactory. Musk did not provide a timeline for the project during the Austin event. Musk Wants Direct Control of Chip Supply Rather than relying on external semiconductor suppliers, Elon Musk suggests Tesla and SpaceX may need to develop their own solution. Speaking at an event in downtown Austin on Saturday night, Musk stated that current chip manufacturers are not producing quickly enough to meet the needs of artificial intelligence and robotics across his companies. “We either build the Terafab or we don’t have the chips, and we need the chips, so we build the Terafab.” A photo displayed during the event indicated the site would be situated close to Tesla's headquarters and the company's gigafactory in Austin. This location would place the project adjacent to one of Tesla's primary manufacturing centers, while also linking it closely to broader work in AI, automation, and robotics.Musk described a very high target for output. He said the plan is to produce chips capable of supporting 100 to 200 gigawatts of computing power per year on Earth, along with a terawatt in space. He did not clarify when the project could start or how long construction and production setup might take. This absence of a timeline is significant because semiconductor manufacturing is one of the most challenging industrial sectors to execute. Chip fabrication requires extensive engineering expertise, lengthy build cycles, complex supply chains, and major capital investment. Musk is well-known for setting highly ambitious goals, and Bloomberg highlighted that he does not have a background in semiconductor manufacturing. Even so, the reasoning behind the proposal is easy to understand. Tesla is expanding further into AI and robotics, while SpaceX also requires more computing power for advanced systems. If external supply remains tight, an in-house or tightly controlled chip operation could give Musk greater certainty over one of the most critical components of that technology stack. 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) - Maestro has introduced Mezzamine, a Bitcoin credit platform designed around Bitcoin mining economics. The offering targets institutional investors who wish to generate yield from idle BTC, while also providing mining firms with an additional avenue for obtaining capital. Good to Know Mezzamine initially launched via a collaboration with Sazmining. The platform aims to deliver an annual yield of approximately 8% to 9% in Bitcoin for investors. Its credit structure is secured by future mining rewards rather than traditional fiat-based debt models. Maestro Tries a Bitcoin Native Answer to Mining Finance Mezzamine is structured as a Bitcoin-denominated credit market, moving away from conventional dollar loans or new equity sales. This is significant as many miners receive income in Bitcoin yet take on debt in dollars. A sharp decline in Bitcoin's price can strain balance sheets and increase the risk of liquidation due to this currency mismatch. Maestro aims to reduce this friction. Through this new framework, institutional investors can allocate Bitcoin to credit facilities linked to anticipated mining production. Returns are derived from block rewards produced by additional hardware and increased hashrate. Maestro reports existing demand, noting that mining companies exploring alternative funding have expressed interest in financing exceeding 1,500 Bitcoin.Protection during bear markets is a key feature. The platform employs hedging mechanisms connected to both Bitcoin's price and mining operational expenses. Essentially, the objective is to prevent a scenario where dropping prices lead directly to margin calls or compulsory asset sales. The model is instead designed to mirror how mining operations genuinely generate revenue via block rewards. For institutional investors, this presents a distinct Bitcoin yield approach. Instead of keeping BTC inactive or lending within a fiat-centric system, they can deploy coins into a credit facility connected to mining and aim for returns in Bitcoin. Miners gain from access to funding that more closely aligns with the asset they generate. The inaugural program is already operational with mining services provider Sazmining. Maestro states the platform is intended for asset managers, family offices, corporate treasuries, and similar professional investors. This direction aligns with a wider trend in digital asset markets, where an increasing number of financial products are being developed natively within the Bitcoin ecosystem rather than relying on external fiat systems. A native Bitcoin credit market also provides the industry with an additional foundational component as institutional participation expands. Mining companies have traditionally relied on outside lenders, equipment financing, or equity sales. Solutions like Mezzamine indicate an alternative path, where capital, collateral, and yield all remain intrinsically linked to the economics of Bitcoin mining. 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) - Hailey Welch has spoken out about the aftermath of the HAWK memecoin’s collapse, connecting the incident to months of public backlash, threats, and legal scrutiny surrounding the unsuccessful token launch. Good to Know HAWK was launched in December 2024 and temporarily hit a market capitalization exceeding $490 million. The token plummeted by over 91% the following day, sparking online allegations of a rug pull. A lawsuit filed by investors targeted the team and organizations behind the launch, though Welch was not included. Hailey Welch States HAWK Aftermath Left Her Traumatized Hailey Welch, commonly referred to online as the Hawk Tuah girl, shared that the collapse of HAWK and the subsequent public response took a significant personal toll. In an interview with Andrew Callaghan on Channel 5, Welch mentioned she was drawn into a crypto project she didn’t fully comprehend. “I got talked into doing something that I didn’t know anything about, really, but you’ve got to be really careful what you put your name on,” Welch told Andrew Callaghan of the Channel 5 YouTube channel on Friday. Welch stated she collaborated with an FBI investigation in 2025 and was exonerated of any misconduct. She added that she received none of the launch funds and lacked the technical expertise required to develop or manage the memecoin.Despite this, public outrage targeted her. Welch revealed she received death threats and remained out of public view for months as tensions escalated over the failed launch. “I was starting to get death threats and everything else. People telling me I owe them all this money, and I’m like, ‘I didn’t do this.’ I’m sitting here, and I’m the one getting hit for this. It’s rough. It’s one of those things where if you come out of the house, you put your head down.” HAWK launched in December 2024 and quickly reached a market cap of over $490 million within hours. By the next day, the token’s value had fallen to approximately $41 million—an over 91% collapse. This drop led to widespread rug pull claims across crypto social media platforms and kept the project in the spotlight across gaming, influencer, and digital asset news. Welch also noted that the actual losses incurred by retail investors were lower than many people believed during the backlash. Per her attorney, the total losses for individual investors amounted to around $200,000.Additionally, a lawsuit filed by investors in December 2024 alleged that the team and entities behind HAWK’s launch sold unregistered securities. Welch was not a defendant in the case. 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) - PENN Entertainment intends to launch Hollywood Casino Aurora on June 24, pending regulatory clearance. This new land-based venue in Aurora will succeed the enduring riverboat establishment on the Fox River, introducing an expanded entertainment scope to the greater Chicago area. Good to Know Hollywood Casino Aurora is scheduled to take the place of the existing riverboat casino on the Fox River. The new facility will feature a hotel, a retail sportsbook, a spa, an event center, and upwards of 1,200 gaming positions. PENN indicates the location will hire approximately 700 employees, almost twice the size of the existing workforce in Aurora. PENN Gets Ready for a Larger Aurora Casino and Resort PENN is preparing to transition Aurora gaming operations to a freshly constructed facility near Interstate 88, opposite Chicago Premium Outlets, moving away from the outdated floating casino model. This shift is significant as land-based casinos typically offer operators greater capacity for accommodations, dining, entertainment, and year-round events compared to older riverboat configurations. The project is valued by PENN at $360 million. Upon its debut, Hollywood Casino Aurora will become the company's second newly constructed venue in the Chicagoland area, following the August 2025 opening of Hollywood Casino Joliet. This provides PENN with a modernized retail casino presence in a Midwest market where operators continue to depend significantly on in-person gaming, hospitality, and sportsbook visitors. “We are just months away from unveiling another premium entertainment hub in the greater Chicago region,” stated Jay Snowden, CEO and President of PENN Entertainment. “We are excited to build on the successful launch of Hollywood Casino Joliet last summer with another new land-based site, reinforcing our retail footprint in the Midwest and strengthening our community ties.”Gaming represents just one component of the offering. The upcoming Aurora facility will boast 226 hotel rooms, over 1,200 gaming positions, a retail sportsbook, a spa, an outdoor entertainment area, and a 12,000 square foot event center. Additionally, PENN anticipates the site will employ roughly 700 staff members, almost doubling the staffing numbers associated with current Aurora operations. Dining is also receiving significant focus. PENN announced that celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis will launch Sorella by Giada, an Italian California fusion eatery. Boulevard Food & Drink Hall will introduce concepts from Stephanie Izard and other collaborators, providing the casino with a blend of local favorites and new culinary choices. For regional casino operators, food and beverage offerings can help increase time spent on-site and expand the demographic beyond traditional gamblers. Rafael Verde, PENN Senior Vice President of Regional Operations, remarked: “These celebrated restaurateurs will offer our guests exceptional dining experiences at the new Hollywood Casino Aurora. Combined with our hotel, event center, spa, and other amenities, visitors will enjoy a lively atmosphere at this new local destination.”Meetings and live events form another key element of the strategy. PENN noted that the event center is already accepting reservations for conferences, weddings, and entertainment acts, with public event disclosures anticipated shortly. This strategy aligns with a comprehensive casino resort model where gaming, lodging, dining, sports betting, private functions, and live shows operate cohesively under a single roof. Regarding the project's backing, Gaming and Leisure Properties Inc. is projected to supply $225 million in financing at a 7.75% capitalization rate around the opening. The City of Aurora is providing $50 million, and PENN stated the remaining $21 million is expected to be finalized by the end of the year. Concurrently, the firm is collaborating with the Illinois Gaming Board to move operations from the existing riverboat Hollywood Casino Aurora to the new land-based location. FAQ When will Hollywood Casino Aurora open? PENN Entertainment has indicated that June 24 is the scheduled opening date, contingent on regulatory authorization. What is replacing the old Aurora casino? The existing riverboat casino on the Fox River will be succeeded by the new land-based Hollywood Casino Aurora. Where is the new property located? The location is situated near Interstate 88, directly across from Chicago Premium Outlets. What features will the new casino include? The venue will feature 226 hotel rooms, over 1,200 gaming positions, a retail sportsbook, a spa, an outdoor entertainment area, and a 12,000 square foot event center.How many jobs will the property support? PENN projects that the new Hollywood Casino Aurora will employ approximately 700 individuals. What dining options are planned? PENN confirmed that Sorella by Giada, led by Giada De Laurentiis, will launch at the venue, accompanied by Boulevard Food & Drink Hall concepts featuring Stephanie Izard and other partners. How is the project being financed? Gaming and Leisure Properties Inc. is set to contribute $225 million, the City of Aurora is adding $50 million, and the remaining $21 million is anticipated by year's end. 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) - Allwyn is seeking alternative methods to develop its own sportsbook technology following the termination of its agreement with Novibet. This development was shared during the group's FY25 earnings call, where company leaders also highlighted PrizePicks as a valuable resource for prediction markets and attracting new customers. Good to Know Allwyn abandoned the Novibet acquisition following input from the Hellenic Competition Commission. Executives stated that proprietary sportsbook technology continues to be a strategic objective. PrizePicks provides Allwyn with a substantial customer base and a unified application for DFS and predictions. Allwyn Looks Elsewhere for Sportsbook Tech After Novibet Deal Falls Apart Allwyn continues to pursue its own sportsbook technology, despite the failure of its Novibet acquisition. On the FY25 earnings call, CEO Robert Chvátal confirmed that sportsbook technology is still a focus and that the company has begun evaluating other possibilities. The Novibet deal was announced earlier this month but was subsequently called off after the Hellenic Competition Commission provided feedback. “This interest in the sportsbook technology remains on the radar of Allwyn,” Chvátal stated.Chvátal stated. “We have already started exploring other opportunities when it comes to sportsbook technology, to maybe solidify our sportsbook position in some markets of Allwyn.” CFO Kenneth Morton emphasized that internalizing sportsbook technology is a definite priority. He noted that while Allwyn already manages the majority of its lottery technology, which is crucial for user experience and sustained success, sports betting is the final component not yet handled in-house. “Sports betting is the one bit that we don’t currently have in-house, which we do think is strategically important. So we certainly see benefits to having it in-house, but as Robert said, there are many other ways that we can achieve that.”PrizePicks was another major topic of conversation. Allwyn secured a deal last September to purchase a 62.3% share in the DFS operator for an initial $1.6 billion, with additional payments contingent on performance across three years. The transaction was finalized in January, and Morton indicated the company is well-placed to pursue expansion in the US prediction market. Morton explained that PrizePicks holds an advantage as it does not require the same level of expenditure on customer acquisition as some competitors. He added that integrating DFS and predictions into a single application improves the user experience and reduces the cost of acquiring customers. “A number of operators have launched actually with three apps, so DFS, OSB and predictions in separate apps,” Morton added. “Essentially, to some extent you’re having to acquire the same customer three times. “That’s not the case for PrizePicks. On day one they went live with predictions within their DFS app, which is obviously better for the user experience, but it’s also much better from the customer acquisition cost perspective.” Allwyn also announced FY25 net revenue of €4.1 billion, a 4% increase compared to the previous year. Adjusted EBITDA also grew by 4%, reaching almost €1.6 billion. The company anticipates finalizing its merger with OPAP this month, following shareholder approval in February, which will form a combined entity worth €16 billion. 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 Nevada court has provided state regulators with a recent victory in the ongoing dispute concerning prediction markets. Following a temporary restraining order issued on Friday, Kalshi is now prohibited from offering contracts related to sports, elections, and entertainment events in Nevada. A subsequent court hearing has been scheduled for April 3. Good to Know A Nevada court issued a temporary restraining order preventing Kalshi from offering sports, election, and entertainment event contracts within the state. According to the Nevada Gaming Control Board, the decision means that all known unlicensed prediction markets are now restricted in Nevada. A hearing to determine if a longer-term injunction will be imposed is set for April 3. Nevada Cuts Off Kalshi as Prediction Market Fight Keeps Growing Although Kalshi previously secured an early victory in Nevada, the situation has now reversed. The Friday order prevents the company from offering or enabling sports, election, and entertainment event contracts in the Silver State. This strengthens the position of Nevada regulators after months of legal battles over whether these contracts constitute unlicensed gambling. State regulators have consistently contended that Kalshi is operating without the gaming license mandated by Nevada law. In the court order, Judge Jason Woodbury stated that the Nevada Gaming Control Board has a reasonable likelihood of success. Reuters reported that the judge determined Kalshi's event contracts linked to college basketball, professional football, and elections fall under a Nevada I This is significant because Kalshi has persistently argued a contrasting position. The company maintains that federal oversight by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission places its event contracts beyond the reach of state gambling control. Nevada has dismissed this perspective, and the judge concurred, at least for the time being, permitting the state's case to proceed.The Kalshi case is also part of a broader conflict playing out across multiple states. Nevada has already compelled other operators to accept state-specific limitations. Court documents from Nevada indicated that Crypto.com ceased offering sports contracts to Nevada residents, while Robinhood agreed to halt offering sports event contracts in the state pending an 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) - Ezugi, Evolution's live casino brand, has broadened its partnership with Bally's Intralot by launching a selection of its live casino and RNG titles on the Bally Bet Sports & Casino platform in the UK, which reinforces its position in the North American market. This deployment provides UK players with access to various Ezugi games including live dealer Ultimate Roulette, Unlimited Blackjack, Horse Racing Auto Roulette, among others. Simultaneously, Ezugi introduced a Bally's-branded edition of EZ Marble Race, representing the company's first customized game version developed specifically for a partner platform. Furthermore, this expanded partnership has also enabled Ezugi to collaborate with Bally's North America Interactive in regulated jurisdictions like Ontario and New Jersey. These markets, which form part of Ezugi's North American expansion strategy, have been instrumental in building its regional footprint. Bally's Intralot, an iGaming and lottery solutions provider, was established following the divestiture of Bally's International Interactive Business in October 2025. The company is publicly traded on the Athens Stock Exchange. It merges Bally's consumer-focused digital assets with INTRALOT's deep expertise in lottery operations within regulated markets. Through Bally's Intralot, customers gain access to a wide range of products and services including online gaming, lottery eLottery, and sports betting. Christel Marioni, VP Commercial Partnerships at Bally’s Intralot, said: Ezugi's games have been part of our Ontario and New Jersey iGaming offerings for some time, and our players have responded very positively to them. Expanding our entertainment options by incorporating distinctive Ezugi content into our UK online platform was a logical next step. The Bally's-branded EZ Marble Race game stands out as a particularly unique and innovative title that aligns seamlessly with Bally's heritage while supporting our contemporary goal of delivering exceptional, immersive entertainment experiences for our players. The Bally's-branded EZ Marble Race is a marble racing game inspired by pinball, featuring five marbles racing along a track enhanced with arcade-style components. The title integrates visual elements that reference Bally's legacy with Ezugi's marble racing gameplay, which utilizes random sequences to determine results. James Robert Smith, Head of Commercial (EU) & Strategy at Ezugi, added: Launching our first exclusive, branded version of EZ Marble Race represents a milestone moment for Ezugi, and partnering with the legendary Bally's brand to do so is a tremendous honor. It's also remarkable that the Ezugi and Evolution brands, along with our group's online slots portfolio featuring NetEnt, Red Tiger, and Big Time Gaming, play such a significant role in Bally's online expansion strategy across the UK and North America. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - William Hill has contacted players who withdrew funds and is asking for the money to be repaid. The operator's issue occurred within the Jackpot Drop opt-in pool, leading players to mistakenly believe they had won the jackpot. Many of these players shared news of their jackpot wins on social media, which were later revealed to be false. Circulating screenshots on X showed one account with a balance of £236,000 and another with £142,000. Additional posts indicated that large sums were temporarily credited to accounts before being manually corrected. The accounts involved were subsequently frozen for investigation, and the Jackpot Drop game was temporarily removed from the website. William Hill is now attempting to reclaim the money that was withdrawn during the window after the erroneous credits were applied but before the accounts were locked. William Hill Online has provided customers with its bank details, including sort codes and account numbers, and has formally requested the return of the funds. The correspondence read: During a routine review of platform activity, we identified an issue affecting the Jackpot Drop game which resulted in incorrect sums being credited to players’ balances and withdrawals being processed incorrectly. As a consequence of this issue, funds were incorrectly credited and, in some cases, withdrawn from a number of customer accounts, including yours, that were not generated through valid or properly functioning gameplay. Our review has confirmed that certain balances credited to your account and subsequently withdrawn did not arise from valid gameplay and are attributable to the issue affecting the Jackpot Drop game. William Hill points to clause 8 in its Terms and Conditions, which permits the company to void transactions, modify account balances, and recover any funds paid out in error due to a technical fault or game malfunction. As a gesture of goodwill, the bookmaker has offered customers the chance to retain 11% of the withdrawn amounts. It remains unclear if this is a standard offer for all affected clients or if it depends on the sum withdrawn. Customers have been given a three-day deadline to return the money and must also sign a settlement agreement to resolve the matter formally. A spokesperson said: During a routine review of platform activity, we identified an issue affecting the Jackpot Drop game which temporarily resulted in incorrect sums being credited to players’ balances and withdrawals being processed incorrectly. Whilst we quickly identified and resolved this issue, for a short period of time funds were erroneously credited to some customer accounts that were not correctly generated through valid or properly functioning gameplay. We have contacted relevant customers to clarify the issue, and are in the process of retrieving the funds in line with our standard terms and conditions. We have been grateful for our customers’ understanding on this matter. The error could prove highly damaging for William Hill, potentially resulting in a significant financial loss if a large portion of the user funds is not returned or is kept under the goodwill terms. Some angry customers have threatened legal action to keep what they believe are their legitimate winnings, which could lead to a protracted dispute. The company's terms and conditions are expected to be a critical factor if the situation escalates. Similar cases have arisen in the UK before. In 2021, the High Court ruled that Betfred must pay a player a £1.7 million jackpot, despite the bookmaker's refusal based on a game defect. Likewise, in March 2025, a judge permitted a gardener to keep a £1 million jackpot after Paddy Power contested the payout citing a computer error. Even if the matter is settled out of court, the operator could still face a substantial financial impact from either completely unrecovered withdrawals or the amounts deducted under the goodwill agreements. 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.