Penn Sees Strong Q1 Performance with Casino Focus Amid Sports Betting Disappointments
Penn Sees Strong Q1 Performance with Casino Focus Amid Sports Betting Disappointments

(AsiaGameHub) -   Penn Entertainment‘s share price jumped more than 11% after the firm released its Q1 results last week. The company recorded significant growth from its online casino segment, and is focusing on leveraging its land-based properties to promote its digital division. In-person retail operations still make up the majority of Penn’s revenue. The company’s 42 properties across 19 U.S. states generated $1.4 billion, a 2.8% increase compared to Q1 2025. Thirty of these venues are located in states that offer either online sports betting or iGaming. While announcing the results, CEO Jay Snowden said he expects the company’s digital segment to turn profitable by the end of the year. Online Casinos Post Record Revenue Penn’s interactive segment generated $172.5 million, up from $161.9 million in the same period one year prior. Online casinos were the main driver of this growth, with revenue rising 15% from Q1 2025. Snowden noted that Hollywood Casino‘s standalone app has “really good momentum.” Penn launched the platform in Pennsylvania in December 2024, before expanding the service to Michigan. The company is using its brick-and-mortar Hollywood Casino locations in these states to promote the brand. Converting existing in-person casino customers and retail sports bettors into online casino players is a core company strategy. Snowden shared that 60% of its online casino customers were originally sports betting users. New Casino Developments Deliver Strong Results Hollywood Casino will also open a new property in Aurora this coming June. Last year, the company redeveloped its Hollywood Joliet location, converting it from a riverboat casino into a full-scale casino resort. The updated location hit record revenue levels in Q1. Snowden said the company remains “excited about the anticipated returns on our development project investments based on the success to date from our recent openings at Hollywood Casino Joliet and M Resort.” M Resort Hotel Tower opened at the company’s Nevada property this past December, wrapping up a $206 million expansion project. Just like the Joliet casino, it posted record revenue in this year’s first quarter. theScore Aims for Alberta Launch In Canada, theScore is Penn’s flagship brand, and since the wind-down of ESPN Bet, it has also expanded its presence across the U.S. once again. Alberta will launch its regulated gambling market later this year, and Penn hopes to capture a substantial share of the new market. “Look, we’ve already launched in Ontario and we hold a very strong market share there today,” Chief Technology Officer Aaron LaBerge stated. “It’s a core part of our gaming business, and we expect to achieve similar market share in Alberta based on the investments we’re making ahead of launch.” The company confirmed it is investing around $20 million in customer acquisition for the Alberta market. After shifting to its simplified business strategy, Penn’s stock price now sits at $17.24, back to the level it was at in October of last year. The company still has a long way to go to recoup the billions of dollars it invested in Barstool Sports and ESPN Bet, but there are clear signs that it is now moving in the right direction. 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.

Pollard Banknote’s CFO Set to Retire
Pollard Banknote’s CFO Set to Retire

(AsiaGameHub) -   Pollard Banknote has announced that Rob Rose will be retiring from his position as executive vice president, finance and CFO at the conclusion of the year. Canada.- Pollard Banknote Limited has confirmed that Rob Rose will step down as executive vice president, finance and chief financial officer on December 31, 2026. The search for his replacement is currently underway. Rose has been part of the company’s executive leadership for thirty-one years. He has directed major financial milestones, including the 2005 IPO, the transition from a private family-owned business to a public corporation, and various debt financing initiatives. Co-CEO John Pollard stated: “Rob has been a key figure in Pollard Banknote’s evolution from a small private printing firm with $40m in revenue and three Canadian locations to a publicly traded international leader. We now provide a comprehensive suite of printed and digital products to the lottery and charitable gaming sectors, with $600m in revenue and 20 sites across North America and Europe. “With Rob’s leadership, the company achieved a successful IPO, shifted from an income trust to a corporate share structure, secured multiple financings to support our expansion, and completed over a dozen acquisitions. We wish to congratulate and thank Rob on behalf of the board of directors, our employees, and the entire company for his outstanding contributions.” Rose added: “It has been a distinct honor to work with the incredible people throughout the Pollard group. I am very thankful for the passion and professionalism of our teams and am happy to assist with a smooth transition over the next few months. I look forward to watching the company pursue its strategic goals under new financial leadership and will continue to support the team as the business grows and succeeds.” 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.

Tennessee Sweepstakes Casinos Stay in Legal Gray Area as Lawmakers Fail to Agree on Ban
Tennessee Sweepstakes Casinos Stay in Legal Gray Area as Lawmakers Fail to Agree on Ban

(AsiaGameHub) -   Tennessee did not enact a law that would have specifically outlawed sweepstakes casinos. A failure to agree on legislation between the Senate and House meant no bill was sent to Governor Lee Marks prior to the session's conclusion on Friday. A bill moving through the House sought to ban online sweepstakes games operating with dual-currency systems. The Senate had also given its approval to the ban the previous month. Just as an official state ban seemed imminent, last-minute complications halted the bill's advancement. Amended Bill Stalls Progress In a strategic shift, the House passed an amendment to HB1885 that eliminated all references to sweepstakes casinos, with a 67-20 vote in favor of HA1152. The revised bill addressed illegal gambling in broader terms instead of singling out sweepstakes casinos. The Senate did not accept the amendment. A separate proposal to authorize a study on the effects of legalizing and regulating sweepstakes casinos in Tennessee was also not approved. Current Status of Tennessee Sweepstakes Casinos Despite the lack of a new law prohibiting sweepstakes casinos, most operators have already ceased operations within the state. According to CasinoBeats, at least 39 platforms now list Tennessee as a restricted jurisdiction. This follows action by Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti, who issued numerous cease-and-desist letters to companies he accused of running illegal gambling operations. “The only certainty with an online sweepstakes casino is that it will take your money,” stated Attorney General Skrmetti. “Considerable effort is made to present these sweepstakes casinos as legitimate, but ultimately, they are not. They evade any regulatory oversight that would guarantee honesty or fairness. Our Office was glad to chase these shady operations out of Tennessee and will keep working to protect Tennesseans from illegal gambling.” Louisiana Renews Efforts to Ban Platforms Similar to Tennessee, Louisiana has utilized existing laws to take action against sweepstakes casinos. However, legislators have once more introduced new bills proposing an official ban on the platforms. The House passed the most recent bill last week with a 99-0 vote. This approval occurred even though Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry vetoed comparable legislation the year before. Landry pointed to current state laws banning illegal gambling, along with the enforcement authority of the Attorney General and the Gaming Control Board. Mirroring Tennessee's approach, the state dispatched dozens of cease-and-desist letters to operators considered to be functioning illegally. An examination of major platforms showed that 60 companies list Louisiana as a restricted state, a significantly higher number than in Tennessee, though lower than in states that have formally banned sweepstakes casinos. In California and Nevada, which passed bans last year, 67 platforms have exited the state. This indicates that while states like Tennessee and Louisiana possess enough authority to force out a majority of operators, enacting specific legislation remains the most effective method for halting the controversial gambling enterprises. 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.

CFTC Files Lawsuit Against New York Over State Crackdown on Prediction Markets
CFTC Files Lawsuit Against New York Over State Crackdown on Prediction Markets

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has initiated legal proceedings in New York to stop the state's measures against licensed prediction market platforms. In a press release, the agency stated, “New York has attempted to apply state laws to CFTC-registered entities using cease-and-desist letters and civil enforcement lawsuits.” The CFTC is pursuing an injunction to bar the state from further enforcement actions against the registered firms. CFTC Responds to NY AG Lawsuits This move comes after New York Attorney General Letitia James sued Coinbase and Gemini, two operators licensed by the CFTC, last week. James alleges these platforms break state laws by providing illegal gambling services. The CFTC counters that it holds exclusive oversight of the industry and, as a federal body, possesses superior authority compared to state regulators. CFTC Chairman Michael Selig said, “CFTC-registered exchanges have been hit with a wave of state lawsuits aiming to restrict Americans' access to event contracts and challenge the CFTC's exclusive regulatory jurisdiction over prediction markets.” Separately, Wisconsin lodged a complaint last week against Kalshi, Polymarket, Crypto.com, Robinhood, and Coinbase. Legal disputes between regulators and prediction markets are now active in 16 states. CFTC Vows to Defend Companies “New York is the latest state to disregard federal law and longstanding precedent by trying to enforce state gambling laws against CFTC-registered exchanges,” Selig continued. “As I've stated previously, the CFTC will not permit overzealous state governments to erode the agency's established authority over these markets.” Earlier this month, the CFTC sued gambling regulators in Arizona, Connecticut, and Illinois over their actions targeting prediction markets. A judge issued a preliminary ruling supporting the CFTC and prevented Arizona from pursuing criminal charges against Kalshi. Insider Trading Scandals Put Pressure on CFTC Most state complaints focus on CFTC-licensed firms offering sports-related markets. States argue these markets constitute sports betting and should be regulated accordingly. Further pressure on the CFTC has arisen from several insider trading incidents involving its licensees. Last week, U.S. soldier Gannon Ken Van Dyke was arrested for betting on the capture of Nicolas Maduro on Polymarket. Van Dyke, who was part of the operation, used his insider information to win more than $400,000 on related markets. Betting on war-related markets is formally banned by the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA). These markets were on Polymarket's international site, which is not supposed to be accessible to U.S. residents. Nevertheless, because Polymarket is now CFTC-regulated in the U.S., legislators are calling for the agency to act more forcefully against the platform. Regulators are Supposed to Regulate In his newsletter last week, prediction market analyst Steve Ruddock highlighted a contrast between gambling regulators and the CFTC. Ruddock wrote, “State gambling regulators enforce accountability on the industry, whereas the Commodity Futures Trading Commission allows the industry to self-regulate.” He illustrated this with a hypothetical scenario of an athlete caught betting on their own games at a regulated sportsbook. The operator would “need to provide an explanation, present a concrete prevention plan, and face a fine or penalty that escalates with each violation, depending on the operator's negligence and the severity of the breach.” In Van Dyke's case, however, the CFTC has complained about the soldier but seems to be taking no steps against Polymarket, even as it continues to advertise banned war markets to users. Attorney Stephen Piepgrass told CasinoBeats, “I believe the CFTC will seek chances to use its enforcement power by acting quickly and firmly against activities that seem to breach CFTC rules, like insider trading.” “Should the CFTC prove it is vigilantly and competently monitoring these markets, it weakens the states' argument that they are the most suitable regulators.” Under the present administration, though, the agency seems very hesitant to enforce rules against licensed companies. The New York lawsuit indicates it is prepared to legally protect these platforms from challenges instead. 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.

VICI Properties reveals closing date for sale-leaseback transaction with Golden Entertainment
VICI Properties reveals closing date for sale-leaseback transaction with Golden Entertainment

(AsiaGameHub) -   The deal is anticipated to finalize on or about April 30.  US.- VICI Properties has revealed that all necessary gaming regulatory and shareholder approvals have been secured for its previously announced $1.16 billion acquisition of the land, real estate, and improvements of seven casino properties from olden Entertainment. The transaction is set to close around April 30pending the satisfaction of remaining customary closing conditions. p> VICI notedoted that upon the deal’s closure, it will enter into a triple-net master lease with a newly formed entity owned by Blake L. Sartartini—chairman and CEO of Golden Entertainment—which entity will have acquired Golden’s operating business.> Golden Entertainment shareholders will receive approximately 24.3 million newly issued VICI shares in exchange for their outstanding Golden stockock. VICI will assume and immediately retire Golden Entertainment’s $426 million in outstanding debt using a combination of cash on hand and net proceeds from the settlement of existing forward sale agreements. The company further stated that the Golden Master Lease will feature an initial annual rent of $87.0 million, an initial term of 30 years, and four 5-year tenant renewal options. In March, VICI Properties announced a CAD$200.6 million ($144.4 million) acquisition of the real estate assets of Deerfoot Inn & Casino, Great Northern Casino, and two limited-service hotels adjacent to the Great Northern Casino in Alberta, Canada. This deal is tied to Pure Casino Entertainment Partnership’s pending take-private acquisition of Gamehost. 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.

TCSJOHNHUXLEY is about to display intelligent software and advanced table solutions at G2E Asia 2026
TCSJOHNHUXLEY is about to display intelligent software and advanced table solutions at G2E Asia 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   The company will present its newest innovations at G2E Asia 2026, which will take place at The Venetian Macao from May 12 to 14. Press release.- TCSJOHNHUXLEY is poised to unveil a significant advancement in live gaming at G2E Asia 2026, scheduled to be held at The Venetian Macao from May 12 to 14, 2026. Visitors to Booth B1338 will have the opportunity to see a range of intelligent software and sophisticated display technologies designed to maximize table profitability across casino floors. While continuing to emphasize its renowned core product offerings, this year's exhibition will highlight how data-driven insights and integrated smart hardware can enhance operational performance for contemporary operators. Building on over five decades of manufacturing expertise, TCSJOHNHUXLEY remains dedicated to delivering innovations that extend beyond conventional equipment, providing a comprehensive, long-term partnership for casinos globally.  A key feature of the event will be the launch of T-Connect 2, the latest iteration of the company’s all-encompassing table management system. This advanced software platform incorporates smart sensors to deliver real-time data, enabling operators to optimize their gaming floors through a flexible and modular approach to game management. T-Connect 2 functions as the central control for the connected pit, improving security and streamlining operations for numerous casinos throughout Asia.  The company will also showcase its latest display innovations, including the Dynamic Display System (DDS) and the adaptable Ora Winning Number Display series – recognized for their superior clarity, customization options, and dependability in displaying crucial game information. A standout exhibit will be the pioneering Ora Vue Blackjack Display Controller, which introduces a new dimension to the game by utilizing advanced camera recognition technology for automatic card entry. This intelligent system enhances the player experience by providing immediate access to hand histories, live odds, and past statistics, making gameplay more engaging, transparent, and accessible to players of all skill levels. The Ora Vue Blackjack Display Controller integrates seamlessly with the Ora Luxe Winning Number Display, creating a fully connected and visually polished solution for modern gaming environments.  To further generate excitement, TCSJOHNHUXLEY will demonstrate its highly acclaimed Supernova Progressive Jackpot System, a distinctive and customizable platform engineered to boost player engagement and elevate excitement on the gaming floor. This unique system allows operators to design their own jackpot configurations, perfectly suited to their specific gaming floor, offering a smooth integration of traditional gameplay with contemporary rewards.  Further underscoring the company’s dedication to operational excellence is the eagerly awaited Chipper Champ 3, representing a significant advancement in the digital transformation of table operations. Featuring a sophisticated sorting hub that ensures exceptional accuracy along with real-time connectivity, the system is powered by a re-engineered engine built for superior performance. By simplifying chip handling and enhancing efficiency, Chipper Champ 3 solidifies its status as the industry standard for Roulette operations.  These innovations complement the company's globally recognized core product range, which includes precision-crafted Roulette wheels and Gaming Tables, as well as dependable Dice Shakers.  Rebecca Kingswell, TCSJOHNHUXLEY global head of operations and managing director APAC, stated: “G2E Asia 2026 provides us with an outstanding opportunity to highlight our commitment to leading innovation in the industry. We are eager to connect with our partners in the region and demonstrate how our latest developments can transform table performance and drive tangible growth. Our primary focus remains on delivering the impactful solutions that operators require to thrive in an evolving market.”  A visit to the TCSJOHNHUXLEY stand offers more than just a product display; it's a chance to understand why the company is a trusted, long-term partner for casinos worldwide. Attendees can explore one of the industry's most comprehensive portfolios for live gaming, encompassing everything from traditional craftsmanship to state-of-the-art electronic systems. The expert team will be available for personalized consultations to address specific operational challenges and illustrate how innovation, quality, and support can deliver enduring value. 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.

TaDa Gaming Strengthens Its Presence in South Africa in Partnership with Sunbet
TaDa Gaming Strengthens Its Presence in South Africa in Partnership with Sunbet

(AsiaGameHub) -   A player-focused provider and a customer-centric platform have announced their collaboration in South Africa. Press release: TaDa Gaming is expanding further into the vibrant South African igaming market through its latest partnership with Sunbet, one of the country’s leading online gaming and sports betting operators. This new collaboration supports TaDa Gaming’s ongoing growth in regulated markets and further solidifies its presence in South Africa’s fast-evolving online gaming sector. As the winner of the SiGMA Africa Slot Newcomer of the Year 2025 award, TaDa Gaming’s mobile-first, player-centric, and expertly localized games stand out due to their dynamic features and mechanics, immersive themes,and user-friendly onboarding that aligns with local preferences. Sunbet customers will gain immediate access to TaDa Gaming’s popular Fortune Gems series, including Fortune Gems 500—currently the top slot game across African regions—while the retro slot machine design of Rapid Gems 777 has quickly made it a favorite among players. Distribution is managed by Light & Wonder Inc. Founded in 2010, Sunbet is a well-established operator with deep insights into its audience and market dynamics. Part of the globally renowned Sun International group, Sunbet holds licenses in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia, with its headquarters in Sandton, Johannesburg. Committed to delivering a more personalized gaming experience for its players, Sunbet’s customer-focused approach has driven impressive recent growth. Adding TaDa Gaming’s award-winning content to Sunbet’s offerings will only enhance the operator’s reputation for innovative and trustworthy gaming experiences. Ray Lee, Director of Business Development at TaDa Gaming, commented: “We are delighted to partner with Sunbet. Their strong customer focus and reputation for being at the forefront of innovative content give us opportunities to expand our expertise, improve our localization efforts, and continue delivering exceptional gaming experiences to more players across South Africa.” Tyler Gentle, Casino Product Manager at Sunbetfollowed: “Great games are those that players return to. They strike the perfect balance between simplicity, reward, and engagement. TaDa Gaming’s games do exactly that—and more. They’re accessible, engaging, and importantly, built to be played. That’s why we’re so excited to have them as part of Sunbet’s lineup.” 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.

A “Mountain-and-Sea Pact” Spanning 4,000 Kilometers — Highlights from Xingcheng City Promotion Event in Sanya
A “Mountain-and-Sea Pact” Spanning 4,000 Kilometers — Highlights from Xingcheng City Promotion Event in Sanya

In April, Sanya is bathed in gentle sea breezes and swaying palm trees. On the beach at Dadonghai Scenic Area, performers dressed in traditional Chinese attire transformed into “promotion ambassadors,” inviting tourists to interact and creating a striking scene along the shoreline. This was not a local folk event, but a promotional showcase from over 3,000 kilometers away—Xingcheng. From April 23 to 25, Xingcheng held its city promotion event in Sanya under the theme “Xingcheng Encounters; A Date with the South China Sea.” Traveling from the Bohai Bay to the shores of the South China Sea, Xingcheng presented its four signature highlights—ancient city culture, hot spring wellness, seaside vacations, and its thriving swimwear industry—initiating a dynamic north-south urban dialogue. A “Mobile Xingcheng” Debuts in Sanya At the CDF Sanya International Duty Free Shopping Complex, the “Xingcheng Encounter” exhibition hall was designed as a condensed version of the city. In the cultural display zone, visuals of ancient city walls blended with costumed NPCs, while in the swimwear section, visitors used AI-powered virtual fitting mirrors to instantly try on outfits, experiencing both the fashion-forward design and technological edge of Xingcheng swimwear. The promotion also extended to major Sanya landmarks, including Dadonghai Scenic Area and Luhuitou Scenic Area. Daily flash performances, cultural merchandise giveaways, and traditional game interactions ensured that “Xingcheng” appeared frequently in tourists’ photos and social media posts. A Swimsuit Connecting North and South On April 25, Sanya Haichang Fantasy Ocean Night City was transformed into a fashion runway. A spectacular swimwear show themed “Tides from North to South, Weaving the Blue Together” featured 60 swimwear designs. With waves crashing nearby and lights shifting across the stage, the runway became not just a fashion display, but a vivid showcase of Xingcheng’s 40-year swimwear industry heritage. Known as the “Swimwear Capital,” Xingcheng produces one-quarter of the world’s swimwear, with an annual output value of RMB 15 billion. Meanwhile, Sanya serves as a major consumption hub for swimwear. This event marked a precise alignment between Xingcheng’s industrial supply chain and Sanya’s consumer market. During the event, Xingcheng signed cooperation agreements with multiple cultural tourism enterprises and platform partners in Sanya, covering project development, brand promotion, and mutual tourist exchanges. Through a single product—swimwear—the two coastal cities discovered new avenues for collaboration. From “Going Out” to “Going In” Over three days, the promotion encompassed city exhibitions, cultural tourism inspections, investment matchmaking, official presentations, and the swimwear showcase—combining industrial cooperation with brand communication. A Xingcheng official noted that the cultural tourism sector has become a key driver for expanding domestic demand and boosting consumption. Resource complementarity, mutual tourist flows, and industrial integration between northern and southern cities are emerging as new pathways for high-quality development. “Xingcheng offers culture, industry, and products, while Sanya provides traffic, scenarios, and channels. Together, this is a case of value co-creation,” the official said. “This event has revealed new possibilities for north-south collaboration,” the official added. “Looking ahead, we hope to connect Xingcheng’s hot spring wellness offerings with Sanya’s seaside resorts, creating multi-destination travel routes that allow visitors to experience two distinct lifestyles in a single journey.”

跨越四千公里的“山海之约”——兴城市城市推介活动·三亚站侧记
跨越四千公里的“山海之约”——兴城市城市推介活动·三亚站侧记

四月的三亚,海风温润,椰影婆娑。大东海景区沙滩上,身着国风服饰的演员化身推介官,邀请游客互动,成为海岸线上一道独特的风景。这一幕,不是三亚本地的民俗活动,而是来自3000多公里之外——辽宁葫芦岛兴城市的城市推介现场。 4月23日至25日,以“兴城奇遇·南海之约”为主题的兴城市城市推介活动在海南三亚举行。从渤海湾到南海之滨,兴城带着古城文化、温泉康养、滨海度假、泳装产业四张名片,跨越山海,展开了一场南北双向奔赴的城市对话。 一座“移动的兴城”亮相三亚 走进中免集团三亚国际免税城,“兴城奇遇记”城市展厅被设计成一个浓缩版的兴城。文化展示区里,古城墙的影像与古装NPC交相辉映;泳装展示区前,游客对着AI试衣镜一键换装,感受兴城泳装的潮流设计与科技质感。 据了解,此次推介活动还走进了大东海景区、鹿回头风景区等三亚热门地标。每天分时段的快闪演绎、文创礼品派发、传统游戏互动,让“兴城”二字出现在很多游客的镜头里和朋友圈中。 一件泳装串起南北协作 4月25日,三亚海昌梦幻海洋不夜城化身时尚秀场。一场以“潮涌南北 共织蔚蓝”为主题的泳装大秀精彩上演。60套泳装作品依次亮相。海浪拍岸,灯光流转,T台上的泳装不仅是时尚的表达,更是兴城泳装四十年产业积淀的集中展示。 作为“泳装之都”,兴城泳装年产量占全球四分之一,年产值达150亿元。而三亚是泳装消费的流量入口。此次活动,正是两地产业链与消费端的精准对接。 推介会现场,兴城与三亚多家文旅企业、渠道平台签署合作协议,涵盖文旅项目开发、泳装品牌推广、客源互送等内容。南北两座滨海城市,因一件泳装,找到了更多合作的触点。 从“走出去”到“走进去” 三天时间,推介活动涵盖城市展厅、文旅考察、招商交流、城市推介、泳装大秀等板块,既有产业对接,也有品牌传播。 兴城市相关负责人表示,当前,文旅产业已成为扩内需、强消费的重要抓手。南北城市之间的资源互补、客源互送、产业互联,正在成为文旅产业高质量发展的新路径。兴城有文化、有产业、有产品,三亚有流量、有场景、有渠道,二者的结合,是一场“价值共创”。 “这次活动让我们看到了南北协作的更多可能性。”兴城市相关负责人说,“未来,我们希望能把兴城的温泉康养和三亚的滨海度假串联起来,打造‘一程多站’的南北联线产品,让游客一次出行,体验两种不同的生活方式。”

跨越四千公里的“山海之约” — 兴城市城市推介活动·三亚站侧记
跨越四千公里的“山海之约” — 兴城市城市推介活动·三亚站侧记

四月的三亚,海风温润,椰影婆娑。大东海景区沙滩上,身着国风服饰的演员化身推介官,邀请游客互动,成为海岸线上一道独特的风景。这一幕,不是三亚本地的民俗活动,而是来自3000多公里之外——辽宁葫芦岛兴城市的城市推介现场。 4月23日至25日,以“兴城奇遇·南海之约”为主题的兴城市城市推介活动在海南三亚举行。从渤海湾到南海之滨,兴城带着古城文化、温泉康养、滨海度假、泳装产业四张名片,跨越山海,展开了一场南北双向奔赴的城市对话。 一座“移动的兴城”亮相三亚 走进中免集团三亚国际免税城,“兴城奇遇记”城市展厅被设计成一个浓缩版的兴城。文化展示区里,古城墙的影像与古装NPC交相辉映;泳装展示区前,游客对着AI试衣镜一键换装,感受兴城泳装的潮流设计与科技质感。 据了解,此次推介活动还走进了大东海景区、鹿回头风景区等三亚热门地标。每天分时段的快闪演绎、文创礼品派发、传统游戏互动,让“兴城”二字出现在很多游客的镜头里和朋友圈中。 一件泳装串起南北协作 4月25日,三亚海昌梦幻海洋不夜城化身时尚秀场。一场以“潮涌南北 共织蔚蓝”为主题的泳装大秀精彩上演。60套泳装作品依次亮相。海浪拍岸,灯光流转,T台上的泳装不仅是时尚的表达,更是兴城泳装四十年产业积淀的集中展示。 作为“泳装之都”,兴城泳装年产量占全球四分之一,年产值达150亿元。而三亚是泳装消费的流量入口。此次活动,正是两地产业链与消费端的精准对接。 推介会现场,兴城与三亚多家文旅企业、渠道平台签署合作协议,涵盖文旅项目开发、泳装品牌推广、客源互送等内容。南北两座滨海城市,因一件泳装,找到了更多合作的触点。 从“走出去”到“走进去” 三天时间,推介活动涵盖城市展厅、文旅考察、招商交流、城市推介、泳装大秀等板块,既有产业对接,也有品牌传播。 兴城市相关负责人表示,当前,文旅产业已成为扩内需、强消费的重要抓手。南北城市之间的资源互补、客源互送、产业互联,正在成为文旅产业高质量发展的新路径。兴城有文化、有产业、有产品,三亚有流量、有场景、有渠道,二者的结合,是一场“价值共创”。 “这次活动让我们看到了南北协作的更多可能性。”兴城市相关负责人说,“未来,我们希望能把兴城的温泉康养和三亚的滨海度假串联起来,打造‘一程多站’的南北联线产品,让游客一次出行,体验两种不同的生活方式。”

跨越四千公里的“山海之约” — 兴城市城市推介活动·三亚站侧记
跨越四千公里的“山海之约” — 兴城市城市推介活动·三亚站侧记

四月的三亚,海风温润,椰影婆娑。大东海景区沙滩上,身着国风服饰的演员化身推介官,邀请游客互动,成为海岸线上一道独特的风景。这一幕,不是三亚本地的民俗活动,而是来自3000多公里之外——辽宁葫芦岛兴城市的城市推介现场。 4月23日至25日,以“兴城奇遇·南海之约”为主题的兴城市城市推介活动在海南三亚举行。从渤海湾到南海之滨,兴城带着古城文化、温泉康养、滨海度假、泳装产业四张名片,跨越山海,展开了一场南北双向奔赴的城市对话。 一座“移动的兴城”亮相三亚 走进中免集团三亚国际免税城,“兴城奇遇记”城市展厅被设计成一个浓缩版的兴城。文化展示区里,古城墙的影像与古装NPC交相辉映;泳装展示区前,游客对着AI试衣镜一键换装,感受兴城泳装的潮流设计与科技质感。 据了解,此次推介活动还走进了大东海景区、鹿回头风景区等三亚热门地标。每天分时段的快闪演绎、文创礼品派发、传统游戏互动,让“兴城”二字出现在很多游客的镜头里和朋友圈中。 一件泳装串起南北协作 4月25日,三亚海昌梦幻海洋不夜城化身时尚秀场。一场以“潮涌南北 共织蔚蓝”为主题的泳装大秀精彩上演。60套泳装作品依次亮相。海浪拍岸,灯光流转,T台上的泳装不仅是时尚的表达,更是兴城泳装四十年产业积淀的集中展示。 作为“泳装之都”,兴城泳装年产量占全球四分之一,年产值达150亿元。而三亚是泳装消费的流量入口。此次活动,正是两地产业链与消费端的精准对接。 推介会现场,兴城与三亚多家文旅企业、渠道平台签署合作协议,涵盖文旅项目开发、泳装品牌推广、客源互送等内容。南北两座滨海城市,因一件泳装,找到了更多合作的触点。 从“走出去”到“走进去” 三天时间,推介活动涵盖城市展厅、文旅考察、招商交流、城市推介、泳装大秀等板块,既有产业对接,也有品牌传播。 兴城市相关负责人表示,当前,文旅产业已成为扩内需、强消费的重要抓手。南北城市之间的资源互补、客源互送、产业互联,正在成为文旅产业高质量发展的新路径。兴城有文化、有产业、有产品,三亚有流量、有场景、有渠道,二者的结合,是一场“价值共创”。 “这次活动让我们看到了南北协作的更多可能性。”兴城市相关负责人说,“未来,我们希望能把兴城的温泉康养和三亚的滨海度假串联起来,打造‘一程多站’的南北联线产品,让游客一次出行,体验两种不同的生活方式。”

跨越四千公里的“山海之约” — 兴城市城市推介活动·三亚站侧记
跨越四千公里的“山海之约” — 兴城市城市推介活动·三亚站侧记

四月的三亚,海风温润,椰影婆娑。大东海景区沙滩上,身着国风服饰的演员化身推介官,邀请游客互动,成为海岸线上一道独特的风景。这一幕,不是三亚本地的民俗活动,而是来自3000多公里之外——辽宁葫芦岛兴城市的城市推介现场。 4月23日至25日,以“兴城奇遇·南海之约”为主题的兴城市城市推介活动在海南三亚举行。从渤海湾到南海之滨,兴城带着古城文化、温泉康养、滨海度假、泳装产业四张名片,跨越山海,展开了一场南北双向奔赴的城市对话。 一座“移动的兴城”亮相三亚 走进中免集团三亚国际免税城,“兴城奇遇记”城市展厅被设计成一个浓缩版的兴城。文化展示区里,古城墙的影像与古装NPC交相辉映;泳装展示区前,游客对着AI试衣镜一键换装,感受兴城泳装的潮流设计与科技质感。 据了解,此次推介活动还走进了大东海景区、鹿回头风景区等三亚热门地标。每天分时段的快闪演绎、文创礼品派发、传统游戏互动,让“兴城”二字出现在很多游客的镜头里和朋友圈中。 一件泳装串起南北协作 4月25日,三亚海昌梦幻海洋不夜城化身时尚秀场。一场以“潮涌南北 共织蔚蓝”为主题的泳装大秀精彩上演。60套泳装作品依次亮相。海浪拍岸,灯光流转,T台上的泳装不仅是时尚的表达,更是兴城泳装四十年产业积淀的集中展示。 作为“泳装之都”,兴城泳装年产量占全球四分之一,年产值达150亿元。而三亚是泳装消费的流量入口。此次活动,正是两地产业链与消费端的精准对接。 推介会现场,兴城与三亚多家文旅企业、渠道平台签署合作协议,涵盖文旅项目开发、泳装品牌推广、客源互送等内容。南北两座滨海城市,因一件泳装,找到了更多合作的触点。 从“走出去”到“走进去” 三天时间,推介活动涵盖城市展厅、文旅考察、招商交流、城市推介、泳装大秀等板块,既有产业对接,也有品牌传播。 兴城市相关负责人表示,当前,文旅产业已成为扩内需、强消费的重要抓手。南北城市之间的资源互补、客源互送、产业互联,正在成为文旅产业高质量发展的新路径。兴城有文化、有产业、有产品,三亚有流量、有场景、有渠道,二者的结合,是一场“价值共创”。 “这次活动让我们看到了南北协作的更多可能性。”兴城市相关负责人说,“未来,我们希望能把兴城的温泉康养和三亚的滨海度假串联起来,打造‘一程多站’的南北联线产品,让游客一次出行,体验两种不同的生活方式。”

Brazilian regulator bans prediction markets from betting on sports or politics
Brazilian regulator bans prediction markets from betting on sports or politics

(AsiaGameHub) -   Kalshi faces unfavorable news ahead of the FIFA World Cup as the National Monetary Council has ruled that prediction markets are not permitted to cover sports. Brazil.- The National Monetary Council (CMN), the entity responsible for shaping Brazil's monetary and credit policies, has issued a ruling that will restrict the function of prediction markets within the country. Its Resolution No. 5,298, endorsed by Banco Central do Brasil President Gabriel Galípolo, stipulates that contracts cannot be linked to outcomes in sports, politics, or entertainment. The regulation, which will become effective on May 4, well before the FIFA World Cup, prohibits financial institutions from offering derivatives tied to political, electoral, social, cultural, or entertainment events. These derivatives must exclusively pertain to economic and financial assets. In its official statement, the CMN cited the growing popularity of prediction market platforms as the reason for this action, noting that they "operate without their own regulation, unlike the betting sector," which was regulated at the beginning of last year under Law No. 14.790/2023, signed by President Lula da Silva in late 2023. Finance Minister Dario Durigan has reported that the telecommunications agency Anatel has already blocked 28 platforms that presented themselves as providers of derivative financial products but were instead offering bets on a wide array of subjects. “The predictions market violates the law passed by the National Congress. Therefore, the product offered by these platforms cannot be regulated,” Durigan stated during a press conference in Brasília. Durigan also conveyed that President Lula remains “very concerned” about the rising number of Brazilians falling into debt due to gambling and indicated that the government is exploring new measures to "tighten" regulations and oversight. President Lula has previously expressed support for a ban on online casino gambling, which was a late addition to Brazil's gambling regulations. Some lawmakers are advocating for a complete ban on online betting in Brazil, which would effectively reverse last year's regulations, though this is unlikely to garner sufficient support. In the interim, a new presidential decree concerning gambling in Brazil is anticipated to restrict access for customers receiving financial aid or those in debt, while also imposing further limitations on gambling advertisements. The National Monetary Council's position on prediction markets is unwelcome news for Kalshi, whose co-founder and chief operating officer Luana Lopes Lara originates from southern Brazil. Kalshi, a prominent prediction market in the US, launched in Brazil in January through a collaboration with XP Inc, marketing its platform as an investment product. This announcement also followed closely after six companies in the sector declared their intention to establish the Brazilian Association of Predictive Markets (ABPred), an organization to represent companies interested in developing prediction market offerings. The association was founded by VoxFi, Futuriza, Eu Já Sabia, i9 Mkt Tech, Mercado Prévio, and Prévias. According to ABPred, its objective is to foster the ecosystem of binary contracts in Brazil and ensure the sector's sustainable growth through self-regulation mechanisms and a "more transparent environment." The Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM) continues to monitor the sector, but no timeframe has been set for any potential specific regulations. In Europe, there has been controversy surrounding the swift approval of a gambling license for a prediction market operator in Gibraltar. 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.

Ten individuals charged in Ukraine for illicit online gambling ring
Ten individuals charged in Ukraine for illicit online gambling ring

(AsiaGameHub) -   The people facing charges include two Russian nationals and a Ukrainian woman who is married to one of them. Ukraine.- Ruslan Kravchenko, Ukraine’s Prosecutor General, has announced that charges have been filed in connection with an illegal online casino network operated by two Russian citizens and the wife of one of those men. Reportedly, the suspects have been charged with committing crimes as part of an organized criminal group and engaging in illegal gambling activities under Part 3 of Article 28, Part 2 of Article 203-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. Three of the ringleaders were additionally charged with laundering the proceeds of crime under Part 3 of Article 209. The prosecutor general stated that payments were made using cryptocurrency, including stablecoins (USDT). Players transferred funds to the operators’ crypto wallets. To legitimize their profits, the money was first accumulated in accounts of a company registered in Estonia before being transferred to offshore companies, Kravchenko said, as reported by the Ukrainian news agency, Interfax Ukraine. Assets equivalent to over UAH5 bn (around €97m) were reportedly laundered through this method. “Two Russian citizens and the wife of one of them, a Ukrainian citizen, created a large-scale online gambling network,” Kravchenko wrote on Telegram. “They recruited seven more Ukrainians into the operation. Through affiliated IT companies, scheme participants ran at least five online casino websites. Some of them had previously operated legally, but after their licences were revoked, the organisers created new sites with the same names and continued the illegal business”. The two Russian citizens were served with notices of suspicion in absentia, while the Ukrainian citizen received their notice in person. Authorities are working to determine the whereabouts of the remaining seven participants. Notices of suspicion were served on them through relatives in the manner prescribed by law, Kravchenko said. 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.

Boyd Gaming posts Q1 revenue gain
Boyd Gaming posts Q1 revenue gain

(AsiaGameHub) -   The company's revenue reached $997.4 million, marking a rise from the $991.6 million reported for the same quarter in 2025. US.- Boyd Gaming Corporation has announced its financial performance for the first quarter ending March 31. The firm's revenue was $997.4m, an increase compared to the $991.6m recorded in the corresponding period of 2025. As per the report, net income fell to $105.5m from $111.4m, while adjusted EBITDAR decreased to $317.4m from $337.5m. The corporation's Midwest & South segment experienced growth in both revenue and adjusted EBITDAR compared to the previous year. This performance was attributed to favorable comparisons against the prior year's severe winter conditions and the benefits of recent property investments. The Las Vegas Locals segment felt the effects of persistent softness in the destination business and disruptions from the continuing renovation work at Suncoast. Conversely, the online segment saw sustained expansion from its online casino gaming operations, alongside contributions from third-party market access agreements that were in line with the levels seen in the latter half of 2025. The Managed & Other category reported growth in revenue and adjusted EBITDAR, propelled by ongoing increases in management fees from the Sky River Casino in Northern California. Keith Smith, president and CEO of Boyd Gaming, stated: “Our Q1 performance demonstrates the advantages of our diversified operations, our effective concentration on operational efficiencies, and our continuing capital investment program. At the property level, we saw growth in both revenue and adjusted EBITDAR year-over-year, with property margins again surpassing 39%. These outcomes were bolstered by sustained increases in play from both core and retail customers across the company, fueled by widespread strength in our Midwest & South segment. “Moving forward, we are confident that our robust balance sheet, varied portfolio, balanced capital allocation strategy, and seasoned management team collectively place us in a strong position to keep generating long-term value for our shareholders.” Boyd Gaming also recently launched Cadence Crossing in Henderson, Nevada. This new property is situated adjacent to the Jokers Wild Casino, near the intersection of Boulder Highway and Warm Springs Road, and features more than 450 slot machines. 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.

Banijay Entertainment finalizes Tipico Group acquisition
Banijay Entertainment finalizes Tipico Group acquisition

(AsiaGameHub) -   Tipico is now part of the Banijay Gaming division, alongside Betclic and Admiral Austria. France.- Banijay Entertainment has successfully completed its acquisition of the Germany-facing Tipico Group, thereby broadening its gaming operations. The French entity had initially announced its intention to acquire a 65 per cent stake from CVC Capital for €3bn in October of the previous year. Tipico will now operate within the newly established Banijay Gaming division, which already encompasses Betclic in France and Admiral Austria, acquired from Novatech last year. In January, the group divested its stake in Bet-at-home AG. The company reports a consolidated customer base of 6.5 million across Germany, France, Portugal, Austria, Poland, and Côte d’Ivoire. Banijay Group will retain a 65 per cent ownership of Banijay Gaming’s capital, sharing it with CVC and the founders of Tipico and Betclic. There are plans to increase Banijay Group's stake to a minimum of 72 per cent in the coming years. The restructuring includes leadership changes: Joachim Baca will move from his role as Tipico Group CEO to become Vice-Chairman of Banijay Gaming’s board. Mate Bacic, previously CEO of Tipico Austria, has been appointed as the new Tipico Group CEO. Nicolas Béraud, founder and former CEO of Betclic, will assume the position of Chairman of Banijay Gaming’s board. Julien Brun has been promoted from Betclic COO to CEO. This acquisition follows Banijay's joint venture with RedBird IMI, which resulted in the shared ownership of All3Media and the formation of one of the world's largest content production groups. The company projects that, on a pro forma basis, its combined entities would have generated €7.4bn in revenue, €1.6bn in adjusted EBITDA, and €1.2bn in adjusted free cash flow in 2025. The company anticipates double-digit growth for the expanded gaming division, bolstered by estimated medium-term synergies of €100m. Commenting on the transaction, Béraud stated: “This combination positions Banijay Gaming as a truly scaled European platform, offering enhanced diversification and greater exposure to large, fully regulated markets. By integrating our shared DNA, technologies, trading expertise, and customer platforms, we will accelerate product innovation, improve our omnichannel offering, and provide a more seamless and engaging experience for our players. Our immediate focus is on realizing the full potential of this merger to drive growth across all our markets.” 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.

Flutter reveals the winners of Tech4Good Awards
Flutter reveals the winners of Tech4Good Awards

(AsiaGameHub) -   The gaming operator’s Alpha Hub startup initiative will provide support to the winning companies. UK.- Flutter Entertainment has revealed the recipients of its most recent Tech4Good Awards. This project, organized by the gambling firm’s Alpha Hub startup programme in collaboration with Beyond Sport, has awarded two tech startups as part of an effort to showcase its social impact amid ongoing pressure from UK legislators for stricter gambling advertising regulations. The top prize was awarded to GoodGym, a platform that motivates walkers, runners, and cyclists to perform community service while they exercise. Established in 2009, the startup currently operates in 68 regions across the UK and is recognized for its AI-driven tool, Coach, which assists users in finding local opportunities to engage and build community connections. The runner-up is Civic Dollars, a Belfast-based firm that created a geo-fencing community currency application designed to incentivize outdoor exercise. For every half-hour spent in public areas, users accumulate “Civic Dollars,” which can be exchanged for health-related courses or contributed to local charitable organizations. The Tech4Good Awards feature a total prize pool of £60,000, alongside customized guidance from both Alpha Hub and Beyond Sport. Adam Burgess, Director of Programmes at Beyond Sport, stated: “By pairing financial grants with specialized capacity-building assistance, these awards empower organizations to leverage technology to expand solutions that boost physical activity and generate sustainable health and community benefits.” Flutter established Alpha Hub in 2018 to link emerging businesses with its various brands, such as FanDuel in the US, and Sky Bet and Paddy Power in the UK and Ireland. These partnerships have covered areas including responsible gambling, product development aimed at women, and, more recently, horse racing innovation via the Future of Racing Summit held with the British Horseracing Authority (BHA). 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.

SBC Summit Americas to shine a light on the future of affiliation and marketing strategy in North America
SBC Summit Americas to shine a light on the future of affiliation and marketing strategy in North America

(AsiaGameHub) -   The gathering will unite top-tier industry professionals to analyze how operators and affiliates are navigating fierce competition. They will discuss utilizing artificial intelligence, new social media platforms, and sophisticated marketing technology to enhance acquisition, boost conversion rates, and foster long-term player involvement within shifting regulatory frameworks. Press release.- With the battle for North American players intensifying, SBC Summit Americas is set to guide industry players beyond conventional methods. The event will highlight innovative engagement strategies through its specialized North America Marketing & Affiliates track. Scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, the agenda features five panel discussions with prominent marketing experts. These sessions will explore how companies are sharpening their acquisition tactics, increasing conversion efficiency, and developing more enduring player lifecycles. Attendees will discover how to leverage AI for better player interaction, manage changing advertising rules with certainty, tap into fresh acquisition avenues like TikTok, and establish brands that prioritize player retention. Rasmus Sojmark, the CEO and founder of SBC, remarked: “Modern affiliates must manage a broader range of channels, platforms, and partnership structures than ever before. The environment is growing more intricate due to social media, content creation, AI, and martech. This specific track aims to simplify that complexity and provide participants with clear insights into what truly fuels expansion.” The track kicks off with the Affiliate Leaders Panel: The New Face of Affiliates: Branding, Voice, and Value. This session will investigate the evolution of affiliates from mere traffic sources into comprehensive marketing brands. Industry leaders Brian Christopher (FlipTheSwitch.com), Stuart Simms (FairPlay Sports Media), Manuel Stan (Catena Media), and Zaire Williams (Exclusive) will discuss how top affiliates are cultivating dedicated followings through distinct brand identities, tailored content, and deeper engagement. They will also address how these changes are altering the value affiliates provide to operators across the region. With mobile-centric and social media strategies becoming vital for player interaction, the panel Beyond the Link: Redefining Affiliate Growth Through Emerging Channels will look at how affiliates are becoming community-focused, content-driven brands. Featuring James White (Hottakes), Caleb Dykema (Vault Sports), Jon Bowden (Playstar), and Bryan Bennett (NorthCo Strategy), the discussion will cover how platforms such as TikTok, YouTube Shorts, podcasts, and live streams are changing acquisition. It will also focus on how affiliates are establishing trust and ensuring long-term viability in a competitive market. The session titled AI, Martech & the Player Journey: Redefining Engagement will delve into how machine learning and AI are reshaping operator-player connections. Experts including Vasilii Gamov (Peaky Ads), Jeremy Groves (Evenbet), Dan Morrison (Fast Track), and Adrianna Samuels (STX) will explain how operators are integrating AI tools with modern martech to stay ahead. The panel will also look at how strategic investments in AI can improve the player experience, refine marketing spend, and encourage lasting loyalty. Additional sessions will explore how North American affiliates can seize new opportunities in markets like Brazil, while another segment will focus on how operators and affiliates use modern martech to improve player acquisition and engagement. SBC Summit Americas is scheduled for June 9-11 at the Broward County Convention Centre in Fort Lauderdale. It is expected to attract 10,000 attendees interested in the North American and Latin American gaming and betting sectors. Across five stages and two breakout areas, participants can attend panels on leadership, sports betting, casino gaming, payments, technology, regulation, compliance, and player safety, featuring insights from some of the industry's most prominent figures. 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.

Today’s NHL Best Bets & Player Props – April 24
Today’s NHL Best Bets & Player Props – April 24

(AsiaGameHub) -   The NHL Playoffs press on this evening with three matchups, and we’ve got your back with top bets and player prop picks. Here’s a breakdown of tonight’s schedule: Lightning vs. Canadiens 7 p.m. ET Golden Knights vs. Mammoth 9:30 p.m. ET Oilers vs. Ducks 10 p.m. ET Best Bets: Player Props for Lightning vs. Canadiens We’re utilizing odds from DraftKings Sportsbook for all three games this evening. Cole Caufield OVER 0.5 Goals (+120) Tampa Bay has done an excellent job containing Cole Caufield through the first two games of the series. Caufield hasn’t found the back of the net yet, and he’s been limited to just three shots. While Caufield has chipped in three assists, expect him to get back to scoring form on his home ice at the Bell Centre. He led the Canadiens with 51 goals during the regular season, ranking second in the NHL only behind Nathan MacKinnon. Brandon Hagel OVER 0.5 Points (-175) Brandon Hagel has been playing exceptionally well through two games, notching three goals, four points, and four shots on goal. Going back to the regular season, he’s scored a goal in seven of his last 10 games. We’re backing Hagel to record a point for the third straight playoff game. He tallied 36 goals and 38 assists during the regular season, plus a stellar +34 plus/minus rating that ranked 13th in the NHL. Best Bets: Player Prop for Golden Knights vs. Mammoth Carter Hart OVER 23.5 Saves (-135) Las Vegas goaltender Carter Hart was kept busy in the first two games of the series. He stopped 27 shots in a 3-2 loss before turning away 31 in a 4-2 win. The series moves to Utah for Game 3. Expect Utah’s shot volume to be high tonight. The Mammoth averaged 26.8 shots per game on home ice, up from 25.51 on the road. Best Bets: Player Prop for Oilers vs. Ducks Lukas Dostal OVER 25.5 Saves (-130) Here’s another netminder who’s been extremely busy. Anaheim’s Lukas Dostal made 33 saves in Game 1 and 30 in Game 2. The last time Dostal faced the Oilers in the regular season, he stopped 30 of 33 shots. The total for this game is 6.5, with heavy juice on the OVER at -155. We anticipate plenty of shots and goals again tonight. The Ducks lead all playoff teams with an average of 4.5 goals per game, while the Oilers rank second at 4.0. The series is tied 1-1 and now heads to Anaheim. 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.

Frogo Prevents €26M+ Losses from Game Integration Bug, Terminating “Digital Gold Rush”
Frogo Prevents €26M+ Losses from Game Integration Bug, Terminating “Digital Gold Rush”

(AsiaGameHub) -   In the following piece, Volodymyr Todurov, CEO of Frogo, details how a multi-layered, real-time fraud detection strategy successfully mitigated a €26 million-plus “digital gold rush” sparked by a game integration error. Opinion.- Within the digital business landscape, automation is frequently touted as the key to scaling. However, without appropriate safeguards, it can become a double-edged sword. For a high-volume operator (with over 100,000 daily active users) processing 98 percent of payouts via automated approval, this efficiency is standard. But what occurs when a third-party game provider experiences a major logic error? Recently, a glitch in an Amatic game integration transformed an operator’s platform into a “Digital Klondike.” Players realized they could exploit the system for “extra” wins, resulting in an additional €26 million in Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) with an anticipated 98 percent payout rate at scale. In such scenarios, every second counts in determining whether an operator remains solvent or faces a liquidity crisis. Here is how Frogo reduced a potential eight-figure disaster to a manageable 4 percent loss. The Challenge: When Automation Becomes a Risk Most fraud prevention systems are built to identify “known” patterns. Conversely, provider-side glitches are “Black Swan” events—unpredictable, viral, and capable of bypassing standard player-level restrictions. The Scale: With 98 percent of payouts auto-approved, the system was essentially left wide open. The Velocity: Word of the vulnerability spread rapidly through communities of bad actors. The Frogo Solution: The “Anti-Fraud Mosaic” Rather than relying on a single firewall, we utilize a multi-layered scoring architecture that monitors the entire ecosystem, simultaneously tracking the player, the game, the session, and payout velocity. 1. Beyond the Player: Game-Level Intelligence While other systems focused on identifying “suspicious accounts,” Frogo’s AI Module targeted the game itself. The Metric: A sudden, simultaneous drop in GGR and a spike in Return to Player (RTP). The Result: The system pinpointed the anomaly at its source, enabling the operations team to isolate the problematic game before the exploit could spread further. 2. Advanced Statistical Safeguards Static limits are easily bypassed by abusers. We employed Rolling-Window Calculations to detect: The “Profitability Spike”: A sudden increase in the number of users experiencing winning sessions across the platform. Behavioural Dissonance: New players moving immediately from deposit to withdrawal without engaging in organic gameplay or onboarding bonuses—a hallmark of “fortune hunters.” 3. Real-Time Payout Scoring (The Final Gate) Frogo’s Scoring Engine automatically halted payments that exhibited abnormal balance growth or turnover speed. By the time the “gold rush” reached its peak, our system was auto-declining 96 percent of fraudulent requests, while ensuring a smooth experience for all legitimate players. Business Impact: Turning Loss into Resilience The results are clear: Potential Exposure: €26M+ Actual Loss: Limited to 4 percent. Operational Efficiency The system proved highly resilient: the payout rate rose by only 8 percent day-over-day. The operator avoided the need for a total site shutdown or the emergency recruitment of 50 manual reviewers; the platform managed the crisis autonomously. Key Highlights Seamless User Experience: No legitimate players were impacted. The genuine user base continued to play without any friction or disruption. Precision Targeting: Anti-fraud measures surgically identified and restricted only the small segment of high-risk users responsible for the eight-digit GGR surge. Is Your Automation Protected? This incident is not an anomaly—it is a warning. As the industry shifts toward full automation, the risks associated with “blind spots” are increasing. At Frogo, our goal is to ensure high-load operations remain safe and predictable. We do more than block fraud; we safeguard your liquidity. Is Your Infrastructure “Black Swan” Ready? Standard anti-fraud protocols often fail when a glitch originates from the provider. At Frogo, we believe proactive auditing and transparency are essential for maintaining market integrity. We encourage industry leaders to conduct a technical review of their automated scoring workflows to uncover potential vulnerabilities. Leap Into Safety. By Volodymyr Todurov, CEO at Frogo. 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.