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(AsiaGameHub) - Canada’s federal securities regulator has approved two companies to begin trading in prediction markets as it cautiously dips its toes into this highly contentious investment category. The Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) has authorized Interactive Brokers Canada and Toronto-based Wealthsimple to launch trading in event contracts, which will be finalized by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC)—the agency that supervises CFTC-licensed platforms such as Kalshi, PolyMarket, and Crypto.com. CIRO oversees investment dealers and establishes rules for event contract trading. A separate body, the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA), collaborates with provincial securities regulators across Canada to ensure national consistency. Louis Morisset, former chair of the CSA, stated: Binary options are the leading form of investment fraud facing Canadians today, and the impact of these scams on individuals is immense. CIRO has clarified that only a limited variety of contracts will be allowed: their maturity dates must be at least 30 days away, and they can be based on economic, environmental, or financial indicators. All these contracts will be classified as derivatives, so they will be subject to the same rules and oversight from both CIRO and participating provincial regulators that govern options trading. Additionally, CIRO noted that event contracts related to elections, political nominations, referenda, or any activity unlawful under Canadian law will not be permitted. This aligns with the CSA’s prior ban on short-term binary options, which were also strongly associated with fraud and harm to the investing public. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Kalshi, a provider of prediction market services, has had its ban upheld by a state judge in Nevada. The State of Nevada asserts that the services offered by Kalshi are gaming-adjacent and fall under the scope of gambling regulatory rules. Judge Jason Woodbury of the First Judicial District Court based in Carson City has ruled to issue a preliminary injunction that prevents Kalshi from selling contracts tied to sporting events, all types of entertainment events, and elections unless it holds a valid gaming license issued by the State of Nevada. Judge Woodbury issued the temporary restraining order (TRO) on the grounds that the court determined purchasing contracts linked to a specific sporting event is nearly identical to placing wagers through a licensed casino or bookmaker. The court's ruling also challenges Kalshi's claim that its products qualify as federally regulated "swaps" under the oversight of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Speaking on this latest development, U.S. Gaming Law and Sports Betting Attorney Daniel Wallach called the ruling a key milestone for state regulators, writing on LinkedIn: Major win for Nevada, which now joins Massachusetts as the first two states to obtain a preliminary injunction against Kalshi. The legal landscape across the country remains highly fragmented www.bcljs.com, with Nevada being one of just a small number of states with an active court-ordered ban on offering Kalshi services. The regulatory environment for this space still remains fragmented in nature. The Nevada Council on Problem Gambling and the Dr. Robert Hunter International Problem Gambling Centre submitted amicus briefs to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals regarding the risks connected to the accessibility, transaction speed, and product design of the products and services available via Kalshi. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Paradise Co. reported that its casino revenue for March dropped by 39.6 percent year-on-year and 44.0 percent compared to February, totaling US$32.8 million (KRW49.5 billion), though the operator provided no specific reasons for the decline. Although the total drop rose by 9.7 percent sequentially to US$389 million (KRW587.7 billion), overall casino revenue fell during the month, driven by a 43.4 percent year-over-year decrease in table revenue to US$29.1 million (KRW44.0 billion). For the first quarter of 2026, total revenue reached US$152 million (KRW229.7 billion), representing a 1.8 percent increase over the same period last year. During this quarter, table games revenue grew by 1.0 percent, machine revenue rose by 23.6 percent, and the total table drop climbed 3.6 percent to US$1.17 billion (KRW1.76 trillion). Paradise Co. operates three casino resorts in Seoul, Busan, and Jeju, and holds a 55 percent majority stake in the Paradise City integrated resort, a joint venture with Japan’s Sega Sammy Holdings. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The Department of Justice has confirmed that all Philippine offshore gaming operator hubs have ceased operations in the Philippines, following a government crackdown that effectively dismantled the sector. Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida informed reporters that the extensive enforcement campaign resulted in the closure of 80% of previously active hubs within one month of their expiration date. He stated unequivocally that there are no legally sanctioned POGOs currently operating within the country, nor are there any operating illegally. He further reiterated the government's official position that no POGO operations will be permitted in the Philippines. Despite the official shutdown of the sector, the Department of Justice has indicated that monitoring of these operations will continue. The DOJ will maintain close surveillance and will intervene if any illegal activity is discovered or reported, as anticipated. The Department of Justice will persist in its active efforts to ensure that any group choosing to operate outside the law will be reported, and appropriate measures will be taken against them. While the DOJ has declared the country a POGO-free zone, it seeks to alleviate any doubts about its commitment to addressing the issue. The continuation of monitoring activities signals that the government will not tolerate a return to unauthorized POGO-related activities in the wake of this closure. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The inaugural Gods of Poker festival took place in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from March 26 to April 5, with all games hosted at NagaWorld. During the series, Kunal Patni emerged victorious in the Main Event, while Martijn Gerrits secured the Player of the Series title for the second consecutive time. The GOP circuit now moves to its next destination, Incheon, South Korea, for a stop scheduled in May. Good to Know Kunal Patni clinched the GOP Phnom Penh Main Event victory from a field of 289 entries, generating a prize pool of $500,000. Martijn Gerrits finished in the money in 16 tournaments, won 6 trophies, and topped the Player of the Series leaderboard with 25,637 points. The GOP Incheon festival is set for May 15-24 at Paradise City, featuring 83 events, including a Main Event with a guaranteed $700,000 prize pool. Popular Indian Poker Pro and Influencer Kunal Patni Wins Main Event Kunal Patni knows the gauntlet is his after seeing the cards hit the table. Photo Credits: Gods of Poker When the final cards were dealt in Phnom Penh, two players stood out. Kunal Patni departed with the prestigious black-and-gold Main Event championship, and Martijn Gerrits secured another Player of the Series victory following an extensive campaign in side events. This provided a successful conclusion to the Cambodian festival and a positive result for the GOP brand to build upon at its next Asian event. Patni captured the Main Event, marking his first major live tournament title. The tournament attracted 289 entrants, creating a $500,000 prize pool, and concluded with Patni winning $109,540. In a post-win interview, Patni expressed his triumph with a single word: “YES!!” Miyoung Cho, the runner-up, earned $66,980 for another deep tournament run. Feng Yang finished in third place for $45,515, followed by Rohit in fourth with $33,135 and Murata Haruto in fifth with $25,330. The remaining final table payouts were awarded to Peng Sen Wu, Wei Yan, Alen Bakovic, and Ngoc Khanh Le.Gods of Poker Phnom Penh Main Event Final Table Results Result Player Prize 1st Kunal Patni $109,540 2nd Miyoung Cho $66,980 3rd Feng Yang $45,515 4th Rohit $33,135 5th Murata Haruto $25,330 6th Peng Sen Wu $20,080 7th Wei Yan $16,370 8th Alen Bakovic $13,650 9th Le Ngoc Khanh $11,595 Back to Back Player of the Series Wins Martijn Gerrits takes his second Gods of Poker Player of the Series Crown. Photo Credits: Gods of Poker Separate from the Main Event, Martijn Gerrits continued his impressive form on the tour. Following a GOP Taipei POS win, the Dutch player cashed in 16 events in Phnom Penh and secured 6 trophies, accumulating 25,637 points to claim the series title. Gerrits now holds 11 GOP trophies and two POS crowns. Jun Yan Kok placed second in the standings, with Alfie Adam finishing third. The Phnom Penh festival also saw other notable winners as the schedule concluded. Daniel Neilson won the GOP High Roller, claiming the silver gauntlet and $14,400, once again defeating Miyoung Cho after her second-place finish in the Main Event. In the Kraken Stack event, Patrik Selin prevailed following a heads-up ICM deal, taking home the trophy and $10,090, while Wah Yan Chow received $9,073. The Gods of Poker 2026 season is structured around its Cronus format, which the brand states is designed to emphasize skill, patience, and deep play over the frenzy of late registration. Phnom Penh was featured as a new stop on the 2026 tour, with Incheon next on the calendar. Paradise City will be the venue for GOP Incheon from May 15 to 24, offering a schedule of 83 events headlined by a Main Event with a $700,000 guarantee. The complete schedule is available here. 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) - DraftKings has introduced a new betting offering in Oregon named DK Replay, centered on actual batter-pitcher exchanges from previous MLB plate appearances. The markets operate throughout the day, and the launch has swiftly garnered pushback from analysts who argue the product resembles casino gaming far more than traditional sports betting. Good to Know DK Replay allows users to wager on the results of pitches from historical batter-pitcher duels. DraftKings rolled out the product discreetly in Oregon, yet the response from across the industry was instant. Critics claim the product is iGaming disguised as sports betting. DK Replay Appears to Be a Casino Product in Sportsbook Clothing The most pointed critiques of DK Replay aren’t actually about baseball itself—they’re about its format. DraftKings introduced a feature within its sportsbook app that numerous industry insiders view as a quick-turnover gambling game with a sports-themed exterior. The setup is straightforward. A bettor is presented with three on-screen options: in play, ball or hit by pitch, and strike or foul. A roughly 15-second countdown timer runs. The user selects a market, places a bet, and then watches an animated depiction of the pitch result to determine the outcome. The names of the batter, pitcher, and game date are only revealed once the at-bat concludes. Even then, only the first five pitches of the at-bat are available for betting. Why Critics Argue DK Replay Isn’t True Baseball Betting During the betting period, DraftKings conceals player identities, replacing them with bronze, silver, or gold tags. This eliminates most of the factors that typically matter in baseball betting. Bettors don’t have access to information like handedness, team context, ballpark details, weather conditions, defensive setup, or game situation. The pitcher isn’t even shown visually, and every batter is depicted as right-handed—even if the actual hitter was left-handed.This is significant because baseball betting generally relies on context, which DK Replay largely removes. What’s left is a game focused on pitch outcomes, driven by speed and a lack of detailed information. Speed and House Edge Fuel the Casino Comparison We tested the product using a $10 bankroll and concluded that it functions more like a casino game than a sports betting market. In a sample of 20 bets, the average vigorish (vig) was 10.15%—far higher than the 4.76% vig typical of a standard -110 two-way market. The speed of play also stands out. In our reviewed sample, bets were placed approximately every nine seconds. This pace is much more similar to slot or table game activity than to regular sports betting, where bettors typically have more time, access to more data, and greater control over their choices. The payout structure further reinforces this impression. Except for one instance in a 3-0 count where the “in play” odds hit +7400, the potential for high returns was limited. In our sample, “in play” payouts averaged around +1000, and most outcomes were much closer to even-money returns—giving the product a vibe more akin to blackjack or Pai Gow than to a sportsbook focused on real pregame or live markets.Oregon regulators defended the format, stating it “does not rely on a random number generator.” Critics don’t consider this the core problem. Their argument is that bettors aren’t truly engaging with baseball in any meaningful manner. They’re watching a simplified graphic, placing bets on quick outcomes, and doing so within a product that provides little of the informational advantage associated with real sports wagering. An example from the original review illustrates this gap clearly: Brooks Raley was labeled with bronze, despite having a 2.50 ERA over the past five seasons—ranking 16th among 255 relievers with at least 100 innings in that period. A bettor would have no way of knowing this before placing a wager, as DraftKings reveals almost no information that could help someone make a more informed betting decision. Critics argue this is intentional. DK Replay retains the superficial terminology of baseball but strips away the depth that typically distinguishes sports betting from machine-based gambling. In a state where online casinos are still illegal, this is precisely why the launch has generated such controversy. FAQ What Exactly Is DK Replay? DK Replay is a DraftKings betting product available in Oregon, rooted in real historical batter-pitcher interactions. Users wager on the results of pitches from previous at-bats. Why Is DK Replay Facing Criticism? Critics argue it feels less like baseball betting and more like an online casino product embedded within a sportsbook app. How Does DK Replay Function? Users select one of three outcomes for each pitch sequence, place a bet, and then view an animated result following a brief countdown.What Makes DK Replay Different From Traditional Sports Betting? It conceals player names before bets are placed, eliminates most game context, settles bets extremely quickly, and features a structure that resembles casino gaming more than traditional sports betting. 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) - Cambodia has for months projected a tougher stance against cybercrime, online scam centers, and illicit activities associated with casinos. However, a new Amnesty International report asserts that the issue persists within the licensed casino industry, involving venues connected to major operators and politically influential individuals. Good to Know Amnesty states casino proprietors oversee at least 12 sites where abuse was recorded by investigators. The report identifies three casinos belonging to Kok An. Cambodia has combined recent raids and arrests with license measures and enhanced cybercrime enforcement. Amnesty Report Contradicts Cambodia's Crackdown Assertions Amnesty International reports that twelve casinos in Cambodia are directly connected to scam compounds where torture, forced labor, child labor, and human trafficking have occurred. Citing licensing records from the Commercial Gambling Management Commission, the organization stated casino owners have direct control over at least 12 distinct properties where abuse was documented by survivors and investigators. Three of those casinos are owned by Kok An, a Sino-Cambodian businessperson and politician associated with Anco Brothers Co Ltd. The properties cited in the report are located in casino-dense regions such as Sihanoukville and border towns like Poipet, where gambling has long been fueled by Thai demand and cross-border movement. This narrative contradicts Cambodia's repeated assertions that it is dismantling scam compounds and increasing oversight of commercial gambling. Since 2025, officials have announced thousands of arrests related to cybercrime, including "pig butchering" scams—a fraud model based on fabricated romantic or investment relationships that later coerce victims into fake cryptocurrency or high-yield investment schemes.In January and February, Cambodian authorities reported shutting down 190 scam centers, including 44 casinos allegedly implicated in technology-facilitated fraud. Officials also revoked licenses connected to Prince Group Holdings. Cambodian authorities subsequently arrested Chen Zhi and extradited him to China, where he is charged with offenses including fraud, money laundering, human trafficking, and torture. The regulator has portrayed these actions as evidence of its intent to “strengthen regulation of the commercial gaming sector … and ensure operations are conducted lawfully”. Amnesty contends the broader record paints a different picture. Montse Ferrer, Co-Regional Director, stated: “establishes a clear link between Cambodia’s licensed casinos and its scamming compounds. At a time when the government says it is dismantling the scamming industry, the evidence shows it is simultaneously recognising the plans for casino properties where abusive scamming compounds are run.” Ferrer added: “If the government is serious about ending this slave-driven industry, it must investigate all scamming compounds in the country.” The UNODC recently praised Cambodia for intensifying its efforts against cyberfraud, a criminal market valued at roughly $40 billion annually. Nevertheless, the Amnesty report maintains that enforcement actions alone have not severed the connection between casino licenses, scam compounds, and the abuses within them. For Cambodia's casino sector, this sustains significant regulatory risk, reputational harm, and ongoing questions about enforcement. FAQ What did Amnesty International allege about Cambodia casinos? Amnesty alleged that licensed casino properties in Cambodia were directly connected to at least 12 scam compound locations where investigators documented abuses such as forced labor, trafficking, torture, and child labor. Who is Kok An in the report? Kok An is the Sino-Cambodian businessperson and politician identified in the report as the owner of three casinos implicated in the scam compound allegations. What are pig butchering scams? Pig butchering scams are online fraud operations where criminals cultivate trust over time, frequently via romantic or investment conversations, before convincing victims to transfer money to fraudulent platforms. What action has Cambodia taken against scam compounds? Cambodia reports making thousands of arrests, closing scam centers, revoking certain casino licenses, and broadening cybercrime enforcement. Amnesty argues these measures have not eliminated the fundamental links between licensed casino properties and abuse. 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) - Candidates for South Carolina governor hold divergent views on gambling. During a recent Republican debate, two contenders unequivocally opposed casinos, while two others indicated openness to restricted expansion or a public referendum. Key Points During a recent debate, Ralph Norman and Alan Wilson both linked casinos to increased crime and societal detriment. Josh Kimbrell expressed potential support for restricted physical gaming establishments in economically disadvantaged regions, but opposed online expansion. Nancy Mace asserted that gambling is already present in the market and suggested that voters should have the ultimate decision. Nancy Mace articulated the most expansive stance among the candidates. She contended that gambling is already a reality through prediction markets and maintained that the electorate should potentially have the ultimate decision. “It exists already,” she stated. “I would wish to examine any proposed laws and regulations. I would seek the Legislature’s perspective. We operate as a republic, and they represent their constituents. I would be amenable to conducting a referendum – to ascertain the desires of South Carolina’s populace? “Should it be a closely divided matter, what would the majority of citizens… prefer, whether concerning online or physical establishments, and these are the available choices rather than a single individual dictating. I would want everyone to contribute their opinion because it remains a contentious subject in certain communities where it would be entirely unwelcome.” Josh Kimbrell similarly allowed for some flexibility, but exclusively for land-based gambling within specific state regions. He opposed broader online expansion, instead advocating for restricted development in economically challenged counties. “I do not believe South Carolina ought to become Atlantic City, and I have not, in fact, supported expanding online gambling access for everyone,” he remarked. “However, one must also recognize that there will be finite prospects in particular economically struggling regions that could gain from a resort akin to what Bristol, VA, possesses.”This statement referenced the bipartisan I-95 Economic and Education Stimulus Act of 2025. The proposed legislation aimed to establish a state gaming commission and permit casino licenses in certain less affluent counties. Though introduced by lawmakers in January, the bill now appears unlikely to advance this session. Ralph Norman adopted an opposing viewpoint, characterizing casino gambling as an immediate danger. He further implied that funds from the gaming industry might be reaching his electoral opponents. “I will resist casinos, and it is imperative to discover which candidates on this platform are accepting contributions from the gambling sector,” he declared. “I will refrain from doing so. It is a moral failing; when casino gambling seeks to establish itself here… it leads to child trafficking, sex trafficking, and various forms of exploitation. I will stand against it and actively combat it.” Alan Wilson supported a comparable position, but based his argument on information he reportedly gathered from law enforcement and religious organizations throughout the state. “Regarding physical casinos, I have traversed this state,” he stated. “I have engaged in extensive discussions with law enforcement officials, and I have conversed extensively with the faith community. They harbor serious apprehensions about physical casinos being introduced here because we have observed in other states that such establishments attract criminal elements.” “I believe it would be harmful to our state collectively to permit physical casinos here.”Pamela Evette is likewise seeking the Republican nomination, despite her absence from the debate. Opinion polls indicate a tight contest, with some surveys placing Evette marginally in the lead, while others show Mace either ahead or tied with Norman among the frontrunners. South Carolina Democrats also feature three contenders in their primary election. Nevertheless, that aspect of the race has garnered less attention following several decades without a Democratic governor. Primary elections for both political parties are scheduled for June 9. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - On the night of April 1, Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee saw two players win a combined $395,542.98 in jackpots, with one guest securing two consecutive victories. The most significant streak involved a player who initially secured $149,880 from a $200 wager on a Buffalo Link slot machine. Subsequently, this individual won an additional $137,662.98 jackpot with a $100 bet on another Buffalo Link game. Meanwhile, another player walked away with $108,000 following a $500 bet on a Dragon Link slot machine. The casino noted other substantial payouts in March as well. A player scored $138,024 on March 24 with a $10 bet on a Dragon Link machine. Just two days after, on March 26, a different player claimed $150,790 with a $10 wager on a Buffalo Link machine. In 2025 alone, players at Seminole Casino Hotel have accumulated over $444 million in total jackpot winnings. 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) - Decentraland is now available on the Epic Games Store, providing the virtual world with a new channel to access a broader audience of gamers. The platform's release occurred on April 2 and included a complimentary in-game wearable for new users who join via the Epic Games Store version. Good to Know Decentraland launched on Epic Games Store on April 2 New users can claim the Epic Arrival Shield at Genesis Plaza The free item is limited to players using the Epic build Decentraland Opens Epic Store Access With New User Reward To attract new players, Decentraland is providing the Epic Arrival Shield to users who download and access the platform through the Epic Games Store. The wearable item can be collected from a dispenser located at Genesis Plaza at coordinates 0,0. The launch was also marked by a community event held at the Decentraland Theatre on the evening of April 2. Attendees were encouraged to wear all-blue outfits for the celebration. Decentraland continues to develop its social features alongside gameplay. The platform regularly schedules events like movie nights, live music performances, trivia contests, parkour challenges, and mini-games. Access continues to be free, and community-led governance remains a fundamental aspect of the project's framework. FAQ When did Decentraland launch on Epic Games Store? It launched on April 2. What free item are new users getting? They can claim the Epic Arrival Shield. Where can players collect the wearable? It can be found at Genesis Plaza at coordinates 0,0. Who can get the Epic Arrival Shield? The offer is exclusive to new players using the Epic Games Store version of Decentraland.What kind of platform is Decentraland? It is a virtual world platform centered on social interaction, events, and community involvement. 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) - Kentucky legislators have forwarded HB 904 to Governor Andy Beshear following a disorganized final session day at the state Capitol. The piece of legislation combines revisions to sports betting policies, fantasy sports regulations, fixed-odds horse racing provisions, and new restrictions related to prediction markets. Good to Know HB 904 received two separate Senate approvals in a single night following a procedural mistake The legislation increases the minimum age required to open a sports betting account from 18 to 21 New wording related to prediction markets emerged as the most contentious point of debate Prediction Market Wording Sparked the Final Major Dispute The most intense disagreement centered on prediction markets. A prior draft of the bill would have banned operators including FanDuel, DraftKings, and Fanatics from operating in Kentucky’s sports betting market if they hosted prediction market platforms anywhere else in the United States. That proposed provision carried significant stakes. Those three operators hold valid Kentucky licenses and make up the vast majority of the state’s sports betting-linked tax base, which generates more than $40 million per year. Pushback mounted rapidly. Over the weekend, FanDuel displayed a pop-up notification within its Kentucky-facing app warning users they might lose access to the platform. The group Protect Our Freedoms Kentucky also rolled out an online tool that allowed users to contact legislators and voice opposition to the bill. By Wednesday morning, the contested wording had been adjusted. The revised draft no longer prohibits licensed operators from operating in Kentucky if they offer prediction market services in other states. Instead, it bars Kentucky-licensed racetracks, sportsbooks, and fantasy sports operators from partnering with any service provider that offers prediction market event contracts within Kentucky’s borders. This more limited wording still left senators with concerns. Senate Minority Floor Leader Gerald Neal questioned whether the service provider provision could prevent Churchill Downs from broadcasting the Kentucky Derby across the country if one of its broadcast partners ran advertisements for prediction market platforms Kalshi or Polymarket. Sen. Jason Howell initially confirmed that this was a possibility, then walked back his statement and said he was not familiar with the specific details of Churchill Downs’ contracts. That response appears to have cost the bill support from several senators representing the Louisville area. Sen. Cassie Chambers-Armstrong said, “That’s a very big issue.” Legislation Addresses Sports Betting, Fantasy Sports and Horse Racing HB 904 impacts a large portion of Kentucky’s gambling market. Representatives Michael Meredith and Matthew Koch sponsored the measure, which consolidates policy proposals that had been in development for more than a year. For sports betting specifically, the bill increases the minimum age to open an account from 18 to 21. It also prohibits player prop bets for in-state college athletes. In addition, the legislation establishes a regulatory framework for fantasy sports operators and adds fixed-odds horse racing wagering as an allowed activity in Kentucky. Meredith told Gambling Insider that the two sponsors combined separate policy efforts they had been leading. Koch had been working on charitable gaming reform, while Meredith had been developing the fantasy sports regulatory side. Both policy tracks were eventually merged into a single bill, which went through multiple rounds of revisions before legislators settled on the final version. The evening brought one additional unexpected twist. After the first vote, senators realized they had attached an out-of-order floor amendment that would have barred licensed operators from accepting credit card deposits. Because that amendment was tied to the original House version of the bill rather than the revised committee substitute, it could not remain in place. Senators then held a second vote to remove the amendment. The Senate first passed the bill at roughly 10 p.m. ET on Wednesday by a 24 to 13 vote. After the procedural issue came to light, senators voted again and reached the same 24 to 13 outcome. Around one hour later, the House approved the Senate’s changes by a 64 to 19 vote. Timing was a critical factor. Wednesday was the final day before legislators recessed ahead of the veto period. Meredith noted that waiting until the last two session days on April 14 and 15 would have created significant risk. If Beshear vetoed the bill at that point, legislators would not have the opportunity to hold an override vote. By advancing HB 904 now, the Republican supermajority retains the ability to override a potential veto. This article is provided by a third-party. 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(AsiaGameHub) - BGaming has launched Gates of Power, a fresh online slot centered on Zeus, quick round progression, and high volatility. This title was created in collaboration with Perfect Position and joins BGaming’s #Entertainment lineup. Good to Know Gates of Power features a 6×5 grid where wins can land anywhere Power Spins, Free Spins, and Super Spins form the core of the game’s feature set The slot offers a maximum win potential of 15,000x BGaming Incorporates Zeus Into a Fast-Paced, High-Volatility Slot Gates of Power draws on the well-known Ancient Greece theme, yet BGaming designed the game with speed and easy bonus access in mind. Wins can occur anywhere on the 6×5 grid, followed by cascades that clear space for new symbols. Lightning strikes introduce multipliers, while Bolt symbols trigger additional multipliers above the reels. Scatter symbols can activate Free Spins or Super Spins. Power Spins ensures either a Bolt or Scatter symbol appears on every spin, with multipliers of at least x50. Players can also access bonus rounds via a Buy Bonus option, and Bonus Hunt mode unlocks Super Spins at a lower cost than the standard bonus purchase route. BGaming stated the slot was developed using a data-driven approach in partnership with Perfect Position. The goal was to create a game suitable for streaming, social content, and extended player engagement for operators. Alongside its feature lineup, Gates of Power boasts a highly volatile math model and targets players seeking larger swings and greater payout potential. Igor Bondarenko, Product Owner of Publishing at BGaming, said: “Ancient Greece is among the most popular slot themes of all time, and we’ve injected fresh energy into it with the launch of Gates of Power. “Working with Perfect Position, we’ve built a data-driven slot ideal for fast-paced sessions and streaming opportunities. It’s also one of our highest-paying and most volatile titles, and we’re excited to see the thrilling wins and powerful emotions it will bring to our players.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - A trio of progressive slot jackpots at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City resulted in a total payout of $953,811, with all three winners securing their prizes with modest bets. A man from Willoughby, New Jersey, received the biggest win, converting a $3 wager into a $585,911.80 wide-area progressive jackpot on a Light & Wonder machine called Journey to the Planet Moolah. A second gambler hit a jackpot of $193,597.40 with a $5 bet on an IGT Triple Diamond slot. The third prize, amounting to $174,301.64, was won from a $5 wager on a Screaming Links Scarabs of Egypt game by Lightning Gaming. The identities of all three winners were kept private at their request. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Lotte Tour Development announced a strong recovery for Jeju Dream Tower in March, with casino sales climbing 24.3% year-over-year and 23.8% month-over-month, reaching KRW40.4 billion (US$26.7 million). This resurgence was supported by improved performance across both table games and slot machines, following a period of significantly lower activity in the preceding month. Table Game Revenue saw a 24.0% increase, totaling KRW38.4 billion (US$25.4 million), while Machine Revenue advanced by 30.3% to KRW2.05 billion (US$1.35 million). Hotel Revenue also experienced substantial growth in March, rising 43.3% from the previous year to KRW5.88 billion (US$3.88 million). Casino Visitation reached 53,587 in March, marking its highest level since October, and Table Drop grew by 19.6% to KRW188.9 billion. These increases in visitation and gaming activity indicate a positive outlook for Jeju Dream Tower, anticipating continued growth into the second quarter of 2023. For the first quarter of 2026, Casino Revenue saw a 40.3% year-over-year increase, accumulating KRW118.6 billion (US$78.4 million). Table Games revenues were the primary driver of this surge, increasing by 41.5% to KRW112.9 billion (US$74.6 million), while Machine Sales rose by 19.6% to KRW5.67 billion (US$3.75 million). Hotel Revenue also improved by 27.9% compared to 2022 figures, reaching KRW18.0 billion (US$11.9 million). With positive trends observed in Visitation, Table Drop, and revenues across both gaming and hospitality sectors, Jeju Dream Tower concludes the First Quarter with renewed momentum. The robust March results effectively counteracted February’s slower performance and have strengthened the resort’s position for a successful Second Quarter. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Belgium's regulated gambling market saw its first year-on-year downturn in 2024 since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Official figures for total Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) show a 4.86% drop compared to the previous year, with overall revenue declining from €1.69 billion in 2023 to €1.61 billion in 2024. This significant contraction was largely driven by a poor performance in the land-based sector, coupled with a modest decline in the online segment; both sectors continue to represent the bulk of the market. Online GGR fell by 2.7% year-over-year, from €946.7 million (56.7%) to €919.1 million (57.1%), while land-based revenue saw a more pronounced decrease of 7.59%. All gambling verticals witnessed fluctuations this year relative to the last. The casino sector was a standout performer, posting a 7.32% increase to reach total revenue of €638.45 million—with online channels accounting for roughly 75% of that figure. Conversely, revenue from arcade licensing fell from €437.2 million (8.94%) to €384.75 million (11.95%), mainly due to a sharp 23.8% plunge in online income, despite a minor uptick in offline revenue. Low-stakes gaming revenue fell by another €222 million, a decrease of 21.71%, and café bingo revenue dropped by 24.7%. Sports betting GGR has been in a consistent year-on-year decline since 2020, falling from €389.94 million (10.4%) to €364.3 million (6.59%). For instance, offline sports betting revenue decreased by 13.58% compared to the previous year, while the online segment saw a much smaller decline of 2.11%. The retail betting sector continues to face challenges, with the number of licensed shops dropping by over 18% since 2008—from 535 licensed by the Belgian Gaming Commission to 408 this year. This has contributed to an overall decline of nearly 18% in land-based sports betting revenue. While gambling still constitutes the majority of total revenues, this trend intensified during the pandemic. However, regulators have voiced concerns about a potential shift to illicit or illegal gambling platforms and advocate for more research into illegal gambling activities. 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) - Malta-based B2B tech firm River Tech is reported to have made roughly 30 staff redundant following a French court's order to freeze a subsidiary's bank account, severely hampering its business activities. Reports state that some employees allege they are still awaiting their final pay. The St Julian's-headquartered company confirmed it issued redundancy notices to workers throughout all its entities, encompassing the senior leadership team, CEO, and CFO. On March 13th, an investigative judge at the Paris Court mandated the freezing of the firm's operational bank account, holding up to €51.2 million. On March 20th, River Tech's subsidiary, with board approval, voted to commence winding up and dissolution procedures in accordance with Maltese law. The company stated that the account freeze has substantially prevented the subsidiary from meeting its financial duties. The board of River Tech adopted a parallel resolution for the parent company and initiated legal proceedings in a Maltese court to wind up and dissolve the parent entity. Upon appointment, the liquidator for both the parent and subsidiary will oversee the winding-up process and decide on creditor repayments, adhering to the legal payment hierarchy. Additionally, the company has sought the nomination of a provisional administrator to take on temporary management responsibilities pending the case's final outcome. River Tech stated that the account freezing is connected to a matter brought forward by France's Central Racing and Gaming Service, a division of the National Police, adding that it pertains to a criminal probe involving a former client of River 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.