日期: 2026年4月10日

(AsiaGameHub) -   Admiral has secured its third European market collaboration with Yggdrasil, marking a new partnership between the operator and the games studio in Serbia. Players using the operator’s platform in the Serbian iGaming sector now have access to Yggdrasil’s gaming library, featuring the studio's newest releases alongside a curated collection of YGG Masters titles. Bogdan Miladinovic, Head of Online Casino at Admiral Serbia, stated: “We are thrilled to bring Yggdrasil’s content to our Serbian players. “As a market-leading operator, teaming up with a reputable content provider like Yggdrasil aligns with our commitment to providing top-tier games and an elevated player experience.” Through an integration via the Bragg Gaming Group platform, Admiral now offers over 100 titles from Yggdrasil’s portfolio, including popular games such as Raptor 2, Vikings Go Berzerk, and Valley of the Gods. Giovanni Fodera, Regional Manager at Yggdrasil, remarked: “Admiral has established itself as a vital partner for Yggdrasil. Following our successful expansion in Italy and Croatia, moving into the Serbian market was the logical progression. “We are eager to deepen our partnership and continue expanding our footprint across all of Admiral’s operational territories.” Earlier this year, Admiral also launched Yggdrasil’s content across its Italian and Croatian platforms. Paulina Ostrzycka, Client Success Manager at Yggdrasil, noted: “Launching with AdmiralBet represents a significant achievement, as it serves as Yggdrasil’s debut operator partnership in Croatia. “The Croatian market is well-suited for our games, and our collaboration with Bragg has facilitated a seamless rollout, allowing us to reach new audiences rapidly. We are enthusiastic about building on this momentum with a robust initial selection and a defined schedule for future content releases.” Žarko Žuvela, Head of Online at Admiral, added: “Our goal is to provide a premium online casino experience, and our partnership with Yggdrasil allows us to enhance the standard for our Croatian players. “Their games are recognized for their immersive mechanics and high-quality entertainment, and we are pleased to have them live on Admiral.hr, with further content additions planned as we continue to grow and refine our platform.” 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) -   BetConstruct AI has introduced its newest product for sportsbooks, the Retail Jackpot Engine. This solution is engineered to enhance player involvement by providing retail customers with an additional layer of experience. It integrates a customizable jackpot directly into the core of the sportsbook environment. Brands have full command over this product, utilizing a three-tiered jackpot structure. This structure can be optimized to function as a single, unified pool across an entire partner network, as separate pools for individual betting shops, or as a custom group cluster based on criteria such as city, district, or VIP status. The triggers for the jackpots are also customizable, offering two available modes: an amount-based trigger that activates when a predetermined value is reached, or a time-based trigger that activates after a specific duration has passed. Jackpot amounts are prominently showcased on all in-store displays, including shop screens, cashier terminals, and self-service kiosks. Live jackpot values can also be printed directly onto betting tickets, serving as a reminder to players on their receipts. “By encouraging repeat visits, extending the time spent in-shop, and increasing overall sportsbook turnover, the engine generates a multiplying return of excitement. This strengthens both the operator's revenue and the player's bond with the brand,” BetConstruct AI stated. 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) -   Vegangster has enhanced the integration of artificial intelligence into its platform by incorporating the Model Context Protocol (MCP). The AI developer Anthropic originated the term MCP, which describes a standardized method for tools to interface with AI applications, enabling AI to comprehend context, access data, and execute tasks. An illustration of this is how Anthropic's AI assistant, Claude, can derive context from applications like Google Drive. Applying this to the iGaming sector, Vegangster stated that this integration will enable the company to standardize the interaction of AI agents with its platform systems across various functions, thereby eliminating the necessity for distinct integrations. For instance, partners will be able to deploy AI agents to address player support inquiries or utilize prompts to refine player lists, analyze performance metrics, and modify configurations. Michael Oziransky, Vegangster's Chief Product Officer, remarked: “The interaction of AI agents with our platform represents a significant transformation. The applications we observe currently are merely the most apparent ones. “The true benefit of MCP lies in its adaptability. This innovation paves the way for entirely novel operational approaches and development opportunities atop the platform. We are proud to be pioneers in introducing this to iGaming.” Vegangster indicated that the integration is presently in its beta phase, with plans for broader availability anticipated in the near future. Last month, Vegangster’s Chief Executive Officer, Max Chertkov, conveyed his conviction to iGaming Expert that AI is poised to evolve into a 'fundamental operational layer within contemporary casinos'. He stated: “Through instant responses and continuous 24/7 operation, AI minimizes friction during critical points in the player experience. This consistent performance aids in sustaining activity and fostering extended player lifecycles, all without necessitating a continuous expansion of support teams.” Nevertheless, Chertkov cautioned that human discretion remains crucial for handling non-standard and contentious situations. “An escalation framework is the optimal approach: allow AI to manage the initial level, and then have your human team intervene when solutions are required,” he further explained. Interested in more content of this nature? Explore the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the dedicated hub for all multimedia from SBC, where our team provides in-depth coverage of major stories across the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate, and payments sectors. 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) -   We are aware that the sponsorship sector is undergoing a major transformation for UK iGaming operators, but could a fresh route to visibility emerge? While the Premier League has long been considered the premier source of sponsorship for global exposure, a fresh contender is emerging, one that avoids the heavy regulatory burdens and lobbying pressures of traditional sports. This weekend, ‘The Gypsy King’ Tyson Fury returns to the ring, but his comeback will unfold on a fresh platform that threatens to push the commercial ceiling of sports broadcasting to new heights. Fury will step into the ring on Netflix, a service accessible to millions of households and not restricted to sports enthusiasts, thereby significantly boosting the commercial potential for sports featured on the platform. Although Netflix is unlikely to disrupt the UK football broadcasting landscape, it is focusing on major events to attract global attention and top-tier talent, offering operators a chance to tap into new demographics and secure widespread visibility. In a strategic move, Sky Vegas has seized this chance to partner with Netflix, with the company’s Marketing Director, Sam Behar, labeling it a ‘landmark broadcast’ event. While Tyson Fury’s return, alongside Conor Benn’s bout, is a significant event for the UK market, Netflix’s foray into sports is not confined to domestic viewers. In May, Jake Paul’s MVP Promotion will join Netflix in its debut into MMA, featuring global icons like Nate Diaz, Francis Ngannou, and Ronda Rousey. This creates a substantial opportunity for iGaming operators to engage with fans via the streaming giant. Additionally, in a recent interview with Ariel Helwani, Ngannou, the Pan-African ambassador for Premier Bet, confirmed that fighters in the event will be permitted to display their own sponsors on their gear. This greatly expands the promotional possibilities for commercial partners interested in Netflix’s sports initiatives. This opens up significant opportunities for operators to forge partnerships with athletes and utilize creative content to engage players across various digital channels. The next two months will witness two pivotal moments in Netflix’s expansion into combat sports, but as the broadcasting landscape evolves, will the commercial synergy between iGaming and combat sports remain a powerful alliance? 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) -   Nederlandse Loterij, the Netherlands’ national lottery provider and largest gambling operator, has announced it will pursue its legal rights against Qbet—an operator—and all associated entities backing it. Qbet, owned by Novatech alongside 55Bet (another illegal entity targeting Dutch consumers), was designated by Nederlandse Loterij as “the largest illegal gambling site” in the Netherlands. In light of this, the licensed operator stated it will aim to permanently shut down Qbet and its broader hierarchy using every legal tool available to it. Nederlandse Loterij filed a comparable lawsuit against Lalabet in 2025—marking the first case of its size. Hearings for that matter are ongoing in The Hague. The progression of this latest case involving Novatech will be worth watching, given that the company holds a license in Curaçao—an autonomous nation under the Dutch Crown—though the legal frameworks of Curaçao and the Netherlands are closely linked. Notably, Novatech was recently slapped with a record €25 million (£22 million) fine by the Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), for providing illegal gambling services. The Nederlandse Loterij’s lawsuit will now add another layer to the mounting legal pressure on the company. That said, there’s nothing preventing Novatech from simply giving up its Curaçao license—an action that would restrict the legal options available to counter it. Arjan Blok, Chief Executive Officer at Nederlandse Loterij, commented: “Players can still access illegal gambling sites with ease—no age verification, no game limits, and they’re offered irresponsible bonuses and deceptive payment methods. “At the same time, 200,000 Dutch citizens are gambling illegally. These are the players who face the highest risks, as they gamble more frequently and wager larger sums on unlicensed platforms. “That’s why Nederlandse Loterij is stepping up to take responsibility—we’re taking the largest illegal gambling site to court, targeting not just the direct operator but also all those behind the scenes who enable it. Our goal is to block illegal gambling sites and keep them blocked.” Blok has been outspoken about the challenges confronting the Dutch gambling market, especially regarding unlicensed black market operators and the declining channelisation rates in the regulated sector. At the most recent Gaming in Holland event—covered extensively by SBC News—the Nederlandse Loterij CEO reaffirmed his full commitment to collaborating closely with the KSA to permanently shut out the black market. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   An Independent Board Committee has provided a unanimous recommendation for investors to accept a share purchase bid from the son of the Ainsworth Game Technology (AGT) founder. Kjerulf Ainsworth, son of company founder Len Ainsworth, is offering shareholders AU$1.30 (£0.69) per share to purchase up to 5.5% of each investor's stake. This move could potentially increase his own ownership in the firm to a maximum of 13.29%. This follows a comparable offer made by Kjerulf Ainsworth last year at the same price point, which concluded on 30 January and resulted in him securing 318,529 shares.  A message to shareholders from the Independent Board Committee stated: “While the Proportional Offer only involves a small fraction of your Ainsworth Shares, the Independent Board Committee believes the Offer Price represents an acceptable premium and has consequently recommended unanimously that Ainsworth Shareholders accept the Proportional Offer of $1.30 per Ainsworth Share (barring any superior proposal).” The committee pointed out that the bid carries a premium of over 23.8% compared to AGT’s closing share price the day before the announcement, and a 23.6% premium over the one-month volume-weighted average price of AGT shares traded prior to the announcement date. Ongoing dispute with Novomatic This bid is the most recent development in the protracted battle for control over AGT. Kjerulf Ainsworth launched his initial offer as a response to takeover attempts by Novomatic, which remains the primary shareholder in AGT, to acquire the slot machine manufacturer. That specific attempt failed when Novomatic’s Transaction Implementation Deed was ended in February. Nevertheless, the Austrian organization has continued to grow its stake in AGT to 67.39% via an off-market takeover effort. Novomatic had offered shareholders AU$1 (£0.53) per share, a figure that investors, spearheaded by Ainsworth, claimed at the time was a significant undervaluation of the company.  This occurred despite the Independent Board Committee also supporting Novomatic’s bid and advising shareholders to accept it if no better offer was presented. In addition to the shares from his first bid, Ainsworth has bought another 2.7 million shares on the market at prices between AU$1.04 (£0.55) and AU$1.09 (£0.59), according to the latest update. AGT shareholders have until 27 April to reach a decision on the proposal, unless the cutoff date is extended as has happened previously. 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 specialized Player Protection Symposium will be a central feature of the SBC Summit Canada 2026, convening regulators, operators, and safer gambling specialists to deliberate on enhancing player safeguards within the Canadian industry. This symposium will be integrated into the broader conference agenda, scheduled for May 19-21, 2026, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. The event will utilize three stages to deliver expert insights into the Canadian gaming landscape, featuring dedicated tracks on Leadership, Affiliates & Advertising, and Payments & Compliance, in addition to a range of interactive masterclasses. The Symposium will confront the most significant safer gambling challenges in Canada, including the strain that new game mechanics exert on current regulatory structures, pinpointing internal compliance deficiencies, and developing marketing that is both compelling and responsible. Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and Founder of SBC, stated: “With the continued expansion of Canada’s market, the complexities surrounding player protection are intensifying. Issues ranging from grey-market operations to advancing game mechanics reveal distinct gaps that require attention. The Player Protection Symposium aims to elevate this discussion and tackle it directly.” A panel titled, Upholding Player Protection: Learning from those established in Canada, will investigate methods for companies to reinforce their internal compliance mechanisms. Specialists Nicole Hanna (Director, Policy and Controls, OLG), Andrew Howie (Senior Counsel – Data Privacy, Betsson), Keno Maseli (Social Responsibility and Sustainability Manager, Great Canadian Entertainment), Tracy Parker (Senior Vice President, Accreditation, Advisory and Insight, Responsible Gambling Council), and Paul Pellizari (Vice President, Global Social Responsibility, Hard Rock) will assess the missteps of entities that have previously fallen short of compliance. This session will further assist operators in detecting internal compliance vulnerabilities within their own systems and in constructing more robust player safety frameworks. The session, Are Game Mechanics Exposing Weaknesses In Regulation? will delve into how new game mechanics and personalized engagement tools are pushing the boundaries of Canada's existing regulatory frameworks. Presenters Tony Plaskow (CEO, Pixiu Gaming), Mike Randall (RG Expert, Gaming Labs), Karl Rempel (Senior Manager, Technology Regulation and Compliance, AGCO), and Dr Alyssa Wilson (Associate Professor, California State University) will evaluate if regulators are matching the pace of technological change and how improved cooperation with operators can protect vulnerable players. The session ‘Beyond Regulation: Understanding Who’s Most at Risk in Canada’s Evolving Gambling Market’ will assess the growing accessibility of gambling for younger and at-risk individuals in Canada. Experts Elaine McDougall (SVP Strategy and Programs, Responsible Gaming Council), Dr. Michael Naraine (Associate Professor, Brock University), together with panel moderator Arash Madani (Canadian Sports Broadcaster), will discuss how operators and regulators can emphasize education and support to promote responsible betting among new participants. Another featured session, Fragmented Rules, Hidden Risks: Tackling Grey-Market Gambling in Canada, will question whether Canada's disjointed regulatory landscape heightens the danger of players migrating to grey market operators. Analysts Andreas Ditsche (CEO, iGaming.com), Jenny Lu (Strategic Consultant, Pixiu Gaming), Oscar Silver (Trade Analyst, Waterhouse Investments), Geoff Zochodne (Senior Industry Reporter, Covers) will identify shortcomings in Canada's regulations and propose strategies to manage them and curb the growth of undesirable markets. The SBC Summit Canada is projected to assemble more than 3,000 stakeholders from across Canada. Over three days, attendees can anticipate targeted networking events, a comprehensive conference agenda, and a vibrant exhibition floor all geared towards fostering genuine business opportunities. Reserve your tickets for the SBC Summit Canada today! VIP Event Pass – Entry to the exhibition floor, all conference sessions, and evening networking events for CA$995 Group VIP Pass – Purchase VIP Passes for only CA$795 each when buying three or more – an ideal option for bringing your team! Complimentary passes are available for operators and affiliates upon application. 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) -   Dave Hammond has stepped down from his position as Chief Operating Officer at the UK Tote Group, concluding an eight-month tenure in the role and a three-year period with the company. He originally became part of the organisation in April 2023 as Chief Commercial Officer, later advancing to the COO role in August of the same year. Before his time at the UK Tote Group, Hammond occupied significant positions with Inspired Gaming Group, Paddy Power Betfair, SBTech, and DraftKings. Dave Hammond. Credit: UK Tote Group Additionally, he established the UK-based Betconsultancy.com in 2018 and concurrently served as the head of the sports betting blockchain venture, Spartos. Commenting on Hammond's exit, Alex Frost, Chief Executive Officer of the UK Tote Group, stated: “We extend our gratitude to Dave for his major role in the Tote’s expansion while he was a member of our team. “He is embarking on a long-awaited career break and will continue to be a valued friend to the company. We send him our best wishes for his future endeavours.” UK Tote’s resilience despite headwinds The UK Tote Group, a long-standing fixture in UK horse racing pool betting, is now seeking a new senior executive during a period of mounting challenges for the horse racing sector. Only last month, the company's Chief Revenue Officer, Paddy Desmond, spoke to an audience in Manchester about the necessary steps for the sport to recover and expand its audience and involvement, while also combating the illegal gambling market. “In my view, a significant part of the issue relates to the governance of racing,” he remarked during the Illegal Gambling Prevention Conference hosted by Deal Me Out. “An excessive amount of authority in British racing lies with the race courses, and with four distinct race course bodies, alignment is not guaranteed and they are often unwilling to cede control. “This makes it challenging to unite behind a comprehensive promotional strategy for the sport and to involve trainers and jockeys effectively. “Media rights present another complication. I participated in the commercial committee for two years and witnessed the internal disputes; the current structure is simply not effective.” Even with concerns in a core market, the UK Tote Group has successfully concluded a number of important commercial agreements both inside the horse racing industry and beyond. The group acts as the Official Principal Partner for the Wigan Warriors' men's and women's squads and also finalized an agreement with BetMakers more than a year ago to supply its quantum technology – a partnership that Hammond was heavily involved in. Having operated for almost a century, Frost has consistently expressed a positive outlook for both his firm and horse racing. However, the departure of a key figure introduces a further challenge at a pivotal moment for the industry. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Hollywoodbets has expanded its gaming library in South Africa by entering into a new content agreement with Tom Horn Gaming. Under this partnership, Tom Horn’s suite of games—featuring popular titles such as the 243 Crystal Fruits series, Book of Aladdin, and Majestic Coins—is now accessible to Hollywoodbets customers across the country. Wade Dorkin, Head of Product at Hollywoodbets, stated: “We are excited to bring Tom Horn Gaming’s portfolio to our South African players. “Their games are known for creative design and compelling mechanics, making them an excellent addition to our platform. This deal reflects our ongoing dedication to improving our entertainment offerings with premium content.” For Tom Horn, this agreement strengthens its footprint in South Africa, following its initial market entry via a partnership with Aardvark Technologies in February 2025, and supports the firm’s broader international growth strategy. Ondrej Lapides, CEO of Tom Horn Gaming, remarked: “We are pleased to grow our relationship with Hollywoodbets and introduce our games to the South African market. “Securing full regulatory compliance for this region was a significant undertaking for our team, so it is very satisfying to see our games live with such a prominent and well-regarded operator. Hollywoodbets has established a stellar reputation and a loyal player base, and we are certain our content will be well-received by their users.” Tax debate continues Mirroring trends seen in many other African nations, South Africa has experienced a significant rise in the popularity of online betting and gaming in recent years. In response, South Africa’s National Treasury has proposed an additional 20% tax on gross gambling revenue from online operations, which would be applied in addition to existing provincial tax rates on all gambling activities. With provincial rates currently ranging from 6% to 9%, the total effective tax burden would reach between 26% and 29% if the proposal is enacted. Data from the National Gambling Board indicates that R1.5trn (£66bn) was wagered during the 2024 financial year, with gambling participation rates climbing from 30.6% to 65.7% between 2017 and 2023. While the proposed tax is estimated to generate R10bn (£456.1m) annually, the Ministry of Finance has stressed that the primary objective is to address potential social issues stemming from the growth of online gaming. The public consultation period for the proposal concluded on 27 February, and industry stakeholders are currently waiting for a decision from South African legislators regarding the potential implementation of the new tax. 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) -   GamCare anticipates that the provisional grant of over £4m from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) VCSE Gambling Harms Prevention and Resilience Fund will enable the charity to ‘bridge the divide between harm and assistance for thousands’. With this funding, slated for the 2026-2028 period, the charity plans to launch two specific initiatives: a community outreach project and specialized assistance for individuals impacted by the gambling habits of others. Pending final confirmation, both services are scheduled to commence in April 2026. Backed by the prevention component of the statutory gambling operator levy, OHID has recently distributed £25.4m among 33 voluntary, community, and social enterprise groups that offer gambling harm support throughout England. Victoria Corbishley, CEO of GamCare, stated: “Once finalized, this provisional funding will assist us in narrowing the gap between harm and help for thousands of individuals throughout England. “Whether an individual is personally struggling or seeking to assist a family member, they are entitled to receive prompt, empathetic, and expert care.” GamCare’s planned use of OHID funds The community outreach initiative will deploy dedicated professionals across London, the South East, the East Midlands, and Yorkshire and the Humber, with a primary focus on engaging diverse and marginalized populations through collaborations with grassroots and specialist providers. GamCare explained that these outreach staff will ‘conduct awareness campaigns, structured early-intervention dialogues, and referral assistance, all aimed at connecting with individuals at the earliest opportunity’. Furthermore, individuals with personal experience within these communities will be hired and trained to foster sustainable local support networks. The national program for those affected by others' gambling seeks to assist the estimated four million people in England who may be dealing with the repercussions of someone else’s gambling without necessarily recognizing the root cause. Assistance will be delivered through professional training, peer support groups, and digital resources. The initiative aims to shorten the path from harm to recovery by providing customized, expert support, particularly for underserved communities. GamCare expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with other grant recipients to establish a unified approach to addressing gambling harm across England. This effort includes coordination with local councils, following the recent distribution of £12m to metropolitan boroughs, unitary authorities, London boroughs, and county councils. “Approximately one out of every seven calls to the GamCare National Gambling Helpline originates from someone impacted by another person’s gambling, and we recognize the critical need to reach and assist more people in these circumstances,” Corbishley remarked. “This investment would enable us to achieve that, while also developing the insights and evidence necessary to bolster the sector’s response for the future.” Interested in more updates like this? Visit the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the central hub for all multimedia content from SBC, where our team explores the most significant developments across the iGaming, sports betting, payments, and affiliate sectors. 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 Chinese citizen suspected of connections to 239 illicit gambling sites has been apprehended in Thailand, after using a Saint Kitts and Nevis passport to avoid attention. According to local publication The Thaiger, Bei Minsi, aged 32, was arrested in the Pattaya area by Thailand's Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) based on information from the Chinese embassy. Although born in China, Minsi obtained citizenship from Saint Kitts and Nevis via its investment migration scheme, a route also taken by other individuals associated with Chinese illegal gambling rings. A recent probe by the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCRP) and The Times identified Su Jiangbo as the fugitive whose assets were seized by the UK Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) using an Unexplained Wealth Order. Jiangbo employed his St. Kitts and Nevis golden passport to buy London real estate and is now required to justify the origin of the purchase funds to UK officials. Minsi is alleged to have participated in an unlawful gambling operation with over 330,000 Chinese users, generating revenue of 13 billion baht (£300.9m). Authorities state he used his second passport to travel to Thailand undetected. Investigative findings connect Minsi to She Zhijiang, who was likewise detained in Thailand and later sent back to China to answer charges concerning illegal gambling. Zhijiang leads the Yatai International Holdings Group, the firm responsible for developing the Shwe Kokko Special Economic Zone in Myanmar. This border city with Thailand is known as a centre for scam operations. Zhijiang has previously faced sanctions from UK and US authorities over suspected criminal deeds and connections to human trafficking. Thai reports indicate officials are now arranging for Minsi's deportation to China to confront the allegations legally. The Chinese government has intensified efforts to prosecute those running illegal casino and scam schemes in Southeast Asia, which are more frequently preying on Chinese citizens. In January, China obtained the extradition of Chen Zhi, a Cambodian-arrested tycoon of Chinese origin accused of operating a massive fraud network. Zhi established the Prince Holding Group, a Cambodian-based conglomerate worth billions of pounds. UK and US officials have accused the group of building casinos and complexes to run scams worth billions of dollars, employing forced labour. 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) -   As the UK’s safer gambling landscape continues to evolve, the Office of Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) has distributed significant grants to local authorities through its gambling harms prevention fund, with Birmingham receiving the largest allocation of £332,769. London’s local authorities also received substantial support as the funding methodology was disclosed, with 50% of the distribution based on population size and the other 50% determined by the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD). In total, a £12 million fund was shared among County councils, Unitary authorities, Metropolitan boroughs, and London boroughs. Other major recipients included Essex (£289,842), Lancashire (£275,649), Hampshire (£234,867), Manchester (£167,338), and Bradford (£154,748). While political debates and campaigning regarding high street gambling have persisted into 2026, the concentration of gambling venues in specific areas appears not to have been a factor in the funding allocation process. Middlesbrough, which consistently ranks among the areas with the highest density of gambling establishments—from bookmakers to Adult Gaming Centres—was allocated only £45,312 from the grant. Similarly, Luton and Blackpool also host a high concentration of gambling venues, yet their respective councils received just £57,611 and £44,159. The funding for Blackpool is particularly notable given its high volume of casinos and gaming centers, often being characterized as a destination for gambling tourism. Does this data suggest a potential weakness in the funding criteria? The OHID has admitted that there is currently insufficient evidence to develop a formula that perfectly accounts for the regional variations in gambling-related harm, and it has expressed an intention to refine the allocation model. These funding decisions also accelerate the shift toward a public health-oriented approach to safer gambling, further distancing official strategy from industry-led initiatives in the UK. The ten councils receiving the highest funding were: Birmingham — £332,769 Kent — £326,912 Essex — £289,842 Lancashire — £275,649 Hampshire — £234,867 Hertfordshire — £201,954 Norfolk — £189,672 Surrey — £187,149 Leeds — £182,116 Manchester — £167,338 While the list of top-funded authorities is dominated by large counties, the absence of London councils is misleading, as their funding is spread across a wide variety of individual boroughs. The top ten funded councils in London were: Newham — £93,820 Ealing — £86,487 Brent — £85,877 Croydon — £85,220 Enfield — £79,420 Barnet — £78,507 Tower Hamlets — £81,537 Greenwich — £63,731 Hillingdon — £65,585 Hounslow — £65,563 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 Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) has announced the funding it will provide to local authorities throughout England to aid in the reduction of gambling-related harms. Scheduled for the 2026–2027 financial year, OHID intends to allocate £12 million in specific funding to upper-tier local councils in England. Authorities have also been notified that an extra £12 million has been set aside by OHID for distribution in the 2027–2028 period. This financial support for councils is entirely backed by the New Statutory Levy on gambling licences. OHID assumed its role as the overseeing body for the prevention and treatment of problem gambling across England in April 2025. The direct financing of councils through the statutory levy marks a transition to a centralised NHS-led framework, replacing the prior voluntary system managed by GambleAware. To qualify for the funds under the new system, local councils are required to fulfil two compulsory conditions. OHID specified: “The conditions are to complete a maturity assessment survey (which provides a baseline assessment of their activity on gambling harms prevention, helping them monitor progress over time and identify and share innovative practice). “Complete a declaration of interest, including formal confirmation from the Director of Public Health that governance, decision-making and the use of levy funds are fully independent of gambling industry influence.” Allocation of funds OHID will disburse the funding through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which mandates that councils use the money exclusively for prevention activities. The distribution model, as explained by OHID, is based on a 50/50 split, with half determined by population size and the other half modified according to the area’s average Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) score. This formula prioritises areas with higher deprivation levels, with the goal of directing more funding per person to less developed regions that face greater risks of harm. OHID will oversee and assess this initial model, which serves as a starting point to collect more community-based data on gambling disorders. Based on this population and deprivation formula, the top funding amounts for 2026–2027 will go to: Birmingham (£332,000), Kent (£326,000), Essex (£289,000), Lancashire (£275,000) and Hampshire (£235,000). In the North West, funding is focused on major metropolitan/urban councils, with Lancashire (£275,000), Manchester (£167,000) and Liverpool (£140,000) receiving the most—allocations that correspond to areas of high population density and varied deprivation scores. In the North East, funding is distributed more uniformly among councils, with County Durham (£127,000) receiving the largest sum. Newcastle and Sunderland will each be allocated approximately £70,000. Although the total funding is less than in the North West, the region's high levels of deprivation increase the per-person funding weighting. London boroughs generally fall within a funding band of £50,000 to £90,000, a result the methodology attributes to a combination of high population density and a diverse mix of deprivation levels. Larger boroughs including Brent (£85,000), Ealing (£86,000) and Croydon (£85,000) are set to get larger sums, whereas wealthier areas such as Kensington & Chelsea (£28,000) and Richmond (£28,000) are at the bottom of the scale. A new chapter for the statutory levy This announcement also marks the completion of OHID's initial responsibilities as the guardian of the Statutory Levy, with the publication this week of its first list of third-sector organisations set to receive £25 million for specialised gambling harm treatment. The eagerly awaited list named the Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM) and GamCare as the two biggest funding recipients. Other initial beneficiaries of the levy are the Addiction Recovery Agency (£1.026m), Betknowmore (£2.99m), Citizens Advice Wokingham (£1.27m), Council for Voluntary Service Medway (£1.3m) and Gambling Harm UK (£1.25m). Political conflicts continue to impact UK gambling Although only four months have passed in 2026, UK politics has already seen a coalition of over 40 local authorities pressuring the government to step in and give councils more authority over gambling premises, alongside calls for an overhaul of local licensing rules. The “Take Back Control of Our High Streets” campaign is spearheaded by Muhammed Butt from Brent Council and Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, a collective of gambling reformers seeking stronger council powers over licensing and stricter advertising regulations. A central proposal is to create a single planning use class for gambling premises, designed to give councils more say over high-street developments. The coalition is also advocating for cumulative impact assessments, which would let local authorities consider area density and socio-economic factors when evaluating new licence applications. Nevertheless, despite increasing pressure, the government declared in late 2025 that it has “no plans to review” the ‘aim to permit’ principle of the Gambling Act 2005. The Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) affirms that its regulatory priority continues to be the implementation of the statutory levy and the creation of public health systems to assist vulnerable people and enhance service access. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. 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(AsiaGameHub) -   Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has confirmed that online gaming and wagering will be the “next topic to address” in an expanding push to implement age-based digital safeguards. These remarks, which are not new, follow the administration's headline proposal to prohibit social media access for those under 15, supported by mandatory age verification requirements for platforms from January 1, 2027. While the immediate focus is on social media, the direction is toward establishing a wider compliance perimeter around all digital products that pose youth exposure risks, including licensed betting and gaming. In an interview with infokids.gr, Mitsotakis identified gaming, online gambling, and artificial intelligence as the logical next steps for the Greek government after social media controls, explicitly linking future measures to existing enforcement gaps in gambling. He noted that although gambling is “typically prohibited under 21,” regulations are being circumvented, particularly with the global rise of the unregulated market. “It is being violated. Similar applications will also exist in online gambling, because now we can in legal gambling,” said Mitsotakis. “You will tell me there is also illegal, yes. But the majority is legal. So, I think we now have the technological tools to put in place a framework for the protection of children and adolescents. “And I repeat, we are not a paternalistic state, which can solve all the issues or interpersonal relationships between parents and children. But we are doing something that is important: we are now opening the conversation. “We have a framework that can be implemented, but most importantly we are enabling parents to have this conversation with children, not from a position of weakness.” The Greek PM also emphasized that “we now have the technological tools” to enforce age restrictions, potentially signaling a shift toward more rigorous security systems. Greek bodies making efforts Many organizations, including the government itself, have been persistent in their efforts to ensure player protection in the gambling sector, which has been inundated with black market operators and illegal gambling rings. The Hellenic National Committee on Bioethics and Technoethics recently highlighted that young people in the country face an excessively high risk of gambling exposure and urged for government action. Government data indicated that nearly 800,000 citizens engaged in illegal gambling in 2024, generating an estimated €1.67bn in turnover and depriving the state of approximately €400m in annual revenue, which has led to officials introducing a draft framework of “interventions required to strengthen the Greek state and economy against the threats of black market gambling.” As part of the bill, the Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP) will see its staff increase from 80 to 110, and the higher quality direct digital intervention powers hinted at in the aforementioned Mitsotakis interview will be introduced. Despite the clear issues with the black market and underage gambling in Greece, it is evident that the government is working extensively to combat these challenges. 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) -   Unibet has faced criticism in the Netherlands for breaching the nation’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act (Wwft). Optdeck Service Limited, the entity operating the FDJ United brand in the Dutch market, has received an AML/CFT directive from the Netherlands’ gaming authority Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) following an investigation that found customer due diligence was ‘not being performed sufficiently’. The KSA noted that Unibet’s transaction monitoring and control measures do not align well with its policy in practice, and the operator must adjust its policy to make player and transaction monitoring more effective. Specifically, the regulator highlighted that policy adjustments are needed for financial thresholds. Via the directive, the KSA has ordered Unibet to cease its various violations. However, the regulator pointed out that the operator had ‘a cooperative attitude and proactively worked on a remediation plan’, with some violations stopped during the investigation. The KSA will conduct a follow-up inspection once the term expires. According to the regulator’s published documents, the term’s expiration date was extended in October last year. Unibet must adjust its financial thresholds to be more effective by 17 November 2025. Continuous monitoring of business relationships and client transactions must be improved by 14 April 2026. iGaming Expert has contacted Unibet to request comment on the AML/CFT directive it received from the KSA. Unibet’s recent Dutch duty-of-care fine In December last year, the KSA imposed a €4m fine on Unibet for failing to comply with duty-of-care responsibilities between 14 July 2022 and 1 July 2024. The regulator’s investigation into player files uncovered various duty-of-care violations, including allowing daily deposits of thousands of euros without intervention when signs of excessive gambling were present, and requesting income information weeks later— even after substantial losses occurred. Interventions selected were also ‘far too light’, such as easily dismissible pop-up windows, and during financial checks, non-permitted income streams (like company accounts) were included. At the time, Unibet told iGaming Expert that it ‘could have acted sooner’ in some duty-of-care cases but contested some of the investigation’s conclusions, stating that the rules during the period of the failings ‘were less specific than they are now’. In its defence against the sanctions, Unibet has challenged the KSA over the clarity of Dutch iGaming regulations. A spokesperson for FDJ United told iGaming Expert at the time: “Unibet takes this matter and its duty of care to provide a safe gaming environment at all times very seriously. We acknowledge that, with the knowledge we have now, we could have acted sooner in the case of some of the players investigated. At the same time, we do not agree with some of the conclusions. “The decision relates to the period June 2022–July 2024, when the rules were less specific than they are now. We applied those rules to the best of our knowledge. In its decision, the KSA applies a stricter interpretation than what was stated in the rules at the time. The legislation and regulations have since been tightened and, since October 2024, there has been a clearer framework for gambling limits. “Since September 2024, we have been working with a new risk detection system that identifies risky gambling behaviour more quickly and leads to stricter interventions. We are also taking additional measures to protect players. The issues referred to by the KSA are no longer possible on our platform.” Looking for more stories like this? Check out the new SBC Media YouTube Channel— the new home for all multimedia content at SBC— where our team deep-dives into the biggest stories across the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate, and payments industries. 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.