日期: 2026年4月23日

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has overhauled its senior leadership team amid fresh disputes and lobbying conflicts over gambling regulation and taxation in the UK. Kane Purdy, Managing Director of Gamesys Operations, has been appointed as the BGC’s new non-executive Chair. He assumes the role at the betting industry trade body with immediate effect, succeeding long-serving Chair Michael Dugher. Dugher, a former Labour MP for Barnsley East, stepped down from the position in January 2026. During his tenure, he led the organisation through a challenging regulatory phase for UK gambling, including the 2020–2023 review of the 2005 Gambling Act and the intense tax debates of the previous year. Purdy takes the helm at a time when the sector faces equally tough regulatory and financial challenges. The industry is adapting to the new tax regime launched in April 2026 and is also responding to calls from MPs and Lords for reforms to advertising and local licensing rules. “Kane brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and talent to this role, honed over two decades in the industry,” commented Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive Officer of the BGC. “He is a widely respected leader with a deep understanding of both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with operating in a regulated environment. He has also shown a strong commitment to collaboration, helping drive forward initiatives that strengthen standards and protections across the sector. “I look forward to working closely with him as we continue to champion our members, raise standards, and support a well-regulated industry that delivers for customers, the economy, and communities across the country.” Before joining Gamesys, Purdy worked at BetVictor from 2006 to 2008 as an IT Service Delivery Manager and at Betfred from 2008 to 2009 as an Operations Manager. He took on the Managing Director role at Gamesys in 2013 following a three-year stint at the now-defunct online and telephone operator Stan James. Kane Purdy, new Chair of the BGC – Source: BGC “I am honoured and delighted to take on the role of Chair of the Betting and Gaming Council,” Purdy stated. “After 20 years in the industry, I understand the importance of working collectively to meet challenges, raise standards, and ensure the regulated sector continues to thrive. “I look forward to collaborating closely with Grainne and the team, as well as with members across the industry, to build on the strong progress already made and help shape the future direction of the BGC.” At the BGC Annual Summit in February, Grainne Hurst noted that the trade body would continue to lobby for sustainable industry governance, with members ready to work alongside authorities to tackle the growing encroachment of the black market – something the BGC views as the “next generational threat to the UK gambling sector.” 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 Philippines government has introduced a fresh set of standardized guidelines aimed at supporting authorities in implementing the countrywide prohibition on offshore gaming operators (POGOs). The Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for carrying out the POGO ban were signed by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto during a ceremony in Manila, with the goal of enhancing inter-agency collaboration and providing more robust legal resources. These SOPs merge two existing POGO ban directives, plus 15 additional laws and departmental orders, into a single comprehensive action plan. Recto said: “These SOPs will transform our approach—from simply shutting down hubs to preserving assets, seizing illicit resources, securing convictions, protecting victims, and severing these criminal enterprises from the financial and corporate networks that sustain them.” In July 2024, the Philippines stopped issuing licenses for POGO operations following President Ferdinand Marcos’ announcement in his 2024 State of the Nation Address that he would ban them, citing their links to criminal activities. At the time, he stated that POGOs had “ventured into illegal activities beyond gaming, such as financial fraud, money laundering, prostitution, human trafficking, kidnapping, brutal torture, and even murder,” and a deadline of the end of 2024 was set for these operations to close. However, it was only earlier this month that Philippine authorities declared the country had fully eliminated the final remnants of these offshore operators. Upon signing the declaration, Recto described POGOs as “an ever-evolving menace that could easily reappear unless the government remains vigilant, coordinated, and relentless.” The Presidential Anti-Organised Crime Commission (PAOCC) is tasked with leading enforcement against POGOs, supported by the Department of Justice, the Anti-Money Laundering Council, and the Securities and Exchange Commission. The latter two agencies will handle financial and corporate intelligence related to the proceeds of illicit activities linked to POGOs. The Department of Social Welfare and Development will also provide assistance to POGO victims through witness protection and support for trafficked persons found working within these operations. Recto praised the SOPs for ensuring that laws against POGOs are not “blunt instruments” with little real-world impact. Instead, he said they will be “precise and sophisticated tools, capable of completely dismantling illegal POGO operations and bringing all those behind them to justice.” In November 2025, PAOCC stated it was still pursuing members of dismantled POGO networks and overseeing 55 cases related to the outlawed operations. “PAOCC remains persistent in seeking justice for the victims who endured detention, threats, and exploitation inside the compounds,” the organization said at the time. “These individuals were not mere figures in an investigation—they were human beings whose dignity was violated, and whose stories, courage, and cooperation made this victory possible.” 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) -   GR8 Tech is enhancing its suite of engagement and retention tools to assist operators in transforming temporary visitor surges into sustained value in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup.  Although major sporting events consistently generate surges in new sign-ups and deposits, the true business hurdle, as noted by the provider, is maintaining player activity after the initial few visits.  “While the World Cup can fuel large-scale player acquisition, it is retention that ultimately defines commercial success,” stated Kateryna Shevchenko, CRM Product Manager at GR8 Tech.  “Solutions that enable operators to act at the optimal time, offer transparent rewards, and minimize the workload involved in player engagement are key to maximizing the return on investment from such events – which is our primary focus.” A core component of this upgrade is a revamped loyalty program designed to boost transparency and sustained interaction, especially with the most valuable players. Players accumulate points from both casino and sports betting play, advancing through levels that provide access to improved reward terms. These feature organized cashback promotions on daily, weekly, and monthly bases, with comprehensive support for multiple currencies and cryptocurrencies. Integrated risk and fraud management features are also built into the system, enabling operators to react swiftly to shifts in player behavior while curbing the misuse of bonuses. Acknowledging that a string of losses is a major reason players leave, GR8 Tech has implemented an automated intervention system. Operators can define limits for losing bets, triggering the platform to issue a compensatory reward automatically within moments of the bet being settled. The goal is to alleviate disappointment at pivotal times and stop players from drifting away. GR8 Tech consolidates recent enhancements The firm is also tackling points of friction for new players by offering more choice in how they claim bonuses. Directly within the payment screen, users can now select, adjust, or decline bonus offers instead of being forced into a predetermined choice.  This development follows the company's statement last week about having 'prepared its casino vertical accordingly' for the upcoming World Cup.  The company has also recently upgraded its sportsbook platform and secured iconic football manager Jose Mourinho as a brand ambassador. 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 prominent预测 technology figure in the European betting sector forecasts that the UK, France, Italy, and Germany might be displaced as the continent's top gambling markets. DATA.BET, a Cyprus-based supplier of sports and esports betting solutions, has highlighted the rising tax rates across Europe in its 2026 outlook, anticipating a shift in the industry's "balance of power." Taxes are undoubtedly expected to significantly impact the sector this year—a perspective shared not only by DATA.BET but also by numerous major gambling PLCs, including Flutter Entertainment, Entain, evoke, Betsson, and others. In its 2025 Sportsbook Report, DATA.BET referenced the scale of the British, Italian, French, and German markets, noting revenues of €30.8bn (£26.7m), €25.5bn, €18.8bn, and €17.8bn, respectively. Nevertheless, betting in the UK, France, and Germany now faces substantial taxes, such as the UK's new Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) of 40% (increased from 21%). Conversely, Italy offers a relatively favorable tax environment but enforces strict regulations, particularly regarding marketing. These circumstances could result in a changing of the guard, according to DATA.BET, which states that "as newly introduced legislation and tightening tax policies reshape the operating environment, the regional balance of power is unlikely to remain unchanged." Like all stakeholders in the European betting landscape, DATA.BET is incorporating the continent's tax and regulatory landscape into its strategic planning. The firm is prioritizing infrastructure reliability, risk management, and the expansion of its product ecosystem and content coverage to enhance engagement, thereby establishing a defense against the aforementioned challenges. Taxation isn't the only factor For the past year, it appears that taxation was the sole topic of conversation in iGaming. This was particularly evident in the UK, SBC News' home country, during the summer and autumn as the sector prepared for the HM Treasury's budget in November 2025. However, DATA.BET has identified non-tax factors it believes will shape the industry in 2026. The company anticipates a continued shift toward mobile-first consumption of betting products and content, fueled by 5G adoption. It also predicts increased convergence between gaming and betting audiences, largely driven by esports; a move toward operational speed, stability, and scale rather than technicality; and a growing significance for low-tier and semi-pro tournaments, which occur more often than major tier-one events. Given these various factors, how is DATA.BET positioned in 2026? The company reported a 55% rise in gross gaming revenue (GGR) in 2025, driven by a 105% surge in monthly active users and an 82% jump in daily active users. Additionally, it has grown its client network, with fully integrated partners increasing by over 200%. "We believe that transparency builds trust and propels the entire industry forward," stated Yurii Berest, Chief Executive Officer of DATA.BET. "At DATA.BET sits at the core of everything we do, and this report reflects that. With the addition of sports betting last year, we aim to demonstrate how our product continues to evolve and improve, and how we assist operators in growing their revenue through effective betting." This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   BETER is setting its sights on the future as it broadens its content portfolio and enters new markets. At the SBC Summit Rio, BETER’s Chief Revenue Officer, Chuck Robert Robinson, met with SBC Noticias’ Ana Maria Menezes to talk about the firm's approach to eFootball, its broader objectives for player engagement, and the role of AI, regulation, and the worldwide betting market. European focus is on scaling. BETER's European strategy is evolving. Robinson characterizes the market as "more mature from a regulatory perspective," adding that they have gained a better insight into customer demands over the past year. Consequently, the company's aim in Europe is to scale effectively, identifying the optimal point with current clients to deliver substantial value at a fair cost. Achieving this also depends on consistently ensuring the integrity of their content. Excelling in this area provides BETER with the credibility and assurance operators require to trust they are receiving a top-tier product. “Filling the gaps” A significant portion of the discussion focused on how BETER's eSports and eSim content is intended to complement traditional sports instead of directly rivalling it. Referencing experiences from Euro 2024 and the Copa America 2024, Robinson explained that their eFootball content sees high engagement before matches, at halftime, and for up to three hours post-game. These are typically times when operators experience a major decline in user activity. Robinson observed, “As the tournament progresses and the number of matches decreases, our operators rely more on our content to maintain bettor engagement.” With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Robinson expressed confidence that demand for this supplementary content will grow substantially, noting that leading operators are already adding BETER's eSim products to their traditional sports sections. Integrity as a commercial differentiator Robinson emphasized that integrity has transitioned from a regulatory requirement to a central commercial offering. BETER's integrity framework is built on three pillars – education, due diligence, and prosecution – with Robinson highlighting its importance as the company expands into regulated markets like Peru, Argentina, Brazil, and the United States. AI: more than just a buzzword Discussing the future inevitably involves the global impact of AI. Robinson stated that BETER is similarly leveraging the technology. He explained that BETER is implementing AI throughout its operations, mainly to accelerate the development and pricing of betting markets, thereby decreasing dependence on manual trading. The technology is also used in its integrity monitoring system to detect irregularities within its catalog of 750,000 yearly events. Scaling across 150 markets Managing operations at its present scale poses difficulties, but Robinson identifies compliance and legal frameworks as the key facilitators. With a presence in 150 nations and a clientele comprising both B2B and B2C operators, Robinson stated that ensuring regulatory compliance across this extensive network is the team's biggest operational hurdle. However, when executed successfully, it transforms into the most distinct competitive edge a provider of their kind can possess. 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) -   Sports data integrity company Sportradar has strongly refuted allegations that it generates as much as 40% of its revenue from the black market, following claims that it targets regions including Russia and China. These claims were independently leveled by investor research firms Muddy Waters and Callisto Research, both of which have disclosed short positions in Sportradar. Callisto asserts it has discovered more than 270 unlicensed platforms utilizing Sportradar’s offerings, leading it to estimate that 30% to 40% of the firm’s turnover stems from these operators. The firm further states it interviewed several former Sportradar staff members who admitted to the company’s involvement with grey or black markets. With Sportradar reporting 2025 revenue of €1.29bn, Callisto’s top-end projection suggests approximately €516m comes from black market activities. Separately, Muddy Waters reports that its investigators posed as sportsbook operators targeting Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia and China – jurisdictions where online betting is banned – while attending January’s ICE conference. The research group alleges that a sales director specializing in Asia presented solutions customized for these markets and offered to connect the investigators with Yabo Group, China’s biggest illicit gambling operator. A statement from Muddy Waters declared: “Our research finds that SRAD has actively aided and abetted illegal gambling across the world’s black and grey markets — not as an accident or an oversight, but as a business strategy.” Both firms allege that most of the unlicensed operators served by Sportradar hold licenses from Anjouan – an autonomous island in the Comoros Union – where the regulator is accused of distributing fraudulent licenses. Other platforms are reportedly licensed under jurisdictions such as Curacao and Malta. Callisto also contends that Sportradar is still pursuing new business in Russia, despite a 2022 pledge to halt new investment there to adhere to sanctions regarding the war in Ukraine. The research organizations argue that Sportradar would be unprofitable without its black market revenue. Consequently, both have taken short positions on the stock and are positioned to gain substantially if the share price falls. Following the publication of the reports, Sportradar shares plummeted yesterday (22 April), closing at $13.04, a drop of 22.6% from the opening price of $16.70. In rebuttal, Sportradar issued a four-paragraph statement asserting the reports’ ‘several factual inaccuracies’ and claiming they ‘demonstrate a fundamental misunderstanding of our business and the industry” “We unequivocally challenge these assertions,” the company stated. “[The reports] were authored by short sellers trying to erode shareholder value and profit from stock disruption. “Sportradar works exclusively with licensed operators, follows strict global compliance, and due diligence standards, and we stand by our independently audited financial statements, risk disclosures, and information provided to investors and regulators. “We conduct our business with the highest ethical standards consistent with Sportradar’s policies and applicable laws and regulations.” In addition to serving numerous gambling operators, Sportradar holds valuable data rights agreements with major global sports leagues and bodies, including the NBA, NFL, MLB, FIFA, UEFA and the Bundesliga. Callisto notes it has submitted its findings to ‘multiple regulators’ in North America and Europe, expressing its view that Sportradar must now decide between ‘surrendering its revenue from illegal operators’ or forfeiting its licenses in those regions. It further warned that allegations of unethical conduct could damage relationships with key sports leagues, further negatively impacting the company’s financial performance. 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 long process of regulating online casinos in New Zealand nears completion, a completion date now appears to be set. The Online Casino Gambling Bill has entered its final stages after passing its third and final parliamentary reading. According to an email update from Trina Lowry, Programme Director for Online Gambling Implementation at the Department of Internal Affairs, the bill will be enacted into law on 1 May, after it receives Royal Assent following signing by the Governor-General. As part of the three-stage licensing process, up to 15 online casino gambling licences will be put up for auction in New Zealand, and the regulated market is scheduled to launch on 1 December later this year. The following year, on 1 June 2027, only licensed operators will be permitted to offer online casino services in New Zealand’s market. Auckland, New Zealand – Image: JHVEPhoto / Shutterstock Brooke van Velden, Minister of Internal Affairs, noted: “The Department of Internal Affairs will regulate the sector using strengthened enforcement tools, including take-down notices, formal warnings, enforceable undertakings and penalties of up to $5m for serious or repeated breaches. “These tools will ensure that New Zealand law applies to all online casino gambling available in the country, no matter where operators are based. This closes off loopholes for non-compliance and strengthens the regulator’s ability to monitor and enforce compliance from international operators. “Submissions on this bill made it clear that New Zealanders want the profits from online casino gambling to flow back to local sports clubs, community groups and grassroots organisations. This bill meets that expectation.” Next steps Lowry stated that online casino licences are expected to be issued starting from early 2027, but there are currently no changes for online casino customers in New Zealand. Online casinos operating in New Zealand before 1 May 2026 are permitted to continue running until 1 December 2026, but are banned from advertising to New Zealand residents. Further process guidance for online casinos seeking a licence will be published on 1 May. The bill will ban any new providers from entering New Zealand’s iGaming market without a valid licence. Unlicensed online casino advertising will remain prohibited, but the new bill raises maximum penalty for breaches to up to NZD$5m. Once an online casino receives its licence, it will be allowed to advertise under specific restrictions. Supporting regulations covering advertising, harm minimisation and prevention, consumer protection, and cost recovery fees and levies are expected to be finalised later this year. Two operators have already confirmed their interest in entering the regulated online casino market – Entain Australia & New Zealand and SkyCity Entertainment Group. Stella David, Chief Executive Officer of Entain, stated during the group’s 2025 full-year earnings presentation that the company will apply for three licences in New Zealand’s online casino market. However, news of the regulated market timeline comes as a small number of operators face coordinated legal action in New Zealand, with claims filed at the Auckland High Court against bet365, SkyCity Entertainment and Super Group over historical gambling activities. Want to see more stories like this? Check out the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the new home for all SBC multimedia content, 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.

(AsiaGameHub) -   India will put into effect and enforce the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Rules (PROGA 2025) starting May 1, 2026. This mandate—approved by both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on August 22, 2025—will institute a complete federal prohibition on any apps, devices, or services that feature real-money gaming systems and transactions. Drafted by the Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Act will facilitate the rollout of a federal framework allowing Indian authorities to oversee online gaming operations. On May 1, MeitY will introduce the Online Gaming Authority of India (OGAI) as the sector’s new regulatory body, tasked with classifying games in line with PROGA’s provisions. OGAI will be vested with powers to monitor compliance, probe illegal gaming practices, and resolve complaints about unlicensed real-money platforms aimed at Indian users. Operating with “judicial authority,” OGAI will have powers comparable to a civil court, including summoning entities, examining evidence, and enforcing decisions. Enforcement of PROGA will be backed by India’s Central Police Force, and OGAI can call on the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for assistance. Under the framework, online money gaming is defined as “an online game where a user pays fees, deposits money, or places other stakes with the hope of winning monetary rewards or other benefits”—regardless of whether the game relies on skill, chance, or a combination of both. The law also covers the promotion and advertising of these services; violations can result in up to three years of imprisonment and fines of up to ₹1 crore (approximately €95,000). MeitY’s board has stated that PROGA’s rules are crafted to target platforms, apps, and systems based not on their gameplay mechanics, but on “the existence of financial risk and reward.” The rules will set up a three-tier classification system that includes online social games, esports, and online money gaming. Social and casual games will be allowed to operate under a more lenient regulatory regime, while esports tournaments can offer prize pools as long as they are pre-announced and structured as approved competitive events (with a defined prize structure and competition rules). But MeitY has made clear that any format “involving direct user staking” can be reclassified as a banned money gaming category. This distinction gives OGAI considerable discretion to assess compliance on an individual case basis. No point of return The government has positioned PROGA as a “light-regulation” framework for non-monetised gaming, eliminating mandatory registration for most social gaming platforms unless they are flagged for inspection. While PROGA sets federal rules and definitions for real-money gaming and its systems, the Act does not provide a clear legal classification of “online gambling”—a gap that still exists in the legislation. According to India’s Constitution, betting and gambling are considered state subjects, so individual states have the primary right to make laws, regulate, or ban gambling activities within their borders. India’s federal gambling laws are still based on the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which recognizes horse racing as the only federally permitted gambling activity. The approval of the PROGA regime caused an immediate restructuring of India’s gaming industry, which in 2024 had a gross gaming revenue (GGR) of ₹31,900 crore (~€3.7 billion) and employed around 120,000 people. Following the PROGA regime’s approval, Flutter Entertainment closed its Junglee Games business, shut its Mumbai office, and incurred an impairment charge of roughly $560 million. MeitY has been asked to revisit the classification of specific real-money gaming systems, as stakeholders caution that overly wide definitions might harm India’s technology and digital 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.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Partnering with renowned sports organizations is a standard brand awareness tactic for sports betting and online casino operators seeking to acquire new customers. 1xBet, an international sports betting company holding over 35 local licenses, is an example of a firm that has leveraged alliances with some of the globe's most famous sports entities to boost its international brand recognition. The company is assembling a sponsorship portfolio that mirrors the scope and variety of international sport. From teams like FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain to leagues such as LaLiga and Serie A, the emphasis has been on collaborations with significant sporting relevance and fan engagement. However, associating with such prominent brands and their devoted, frequently impressionable supporters carries a heightened degree of responsibility. Why do operators sponsor major sporting brands? Chris Bird, a media expert recently hired as a consultant for 1xBet, states that firms must view these collaborations as opportunities for reputation building alongside commercial gains. “You cannot engage in a sponsorship of this nature with a sole focus on the financial benefits,” Bird stated. “These alliances offer immense visibility and clout, which also introduces an obligation to safeguard the reputation of the sport, the sponsoring company, and the fans. “Every action must be founded on doing the correct thing, in the proper manner, communicating transparently, and proving that sports sponsorships can be executed with genuine integrity.” Bird possesses experience from both perspectives of the sponsorship dynamic. In addition to counseling operators like 1xBet and Betfred, he formerly held the position of Chief Operating Officer at Manchester City FC from 1999 to 2003. In the time since, the connection between professional sports and the gambling industry has often been under scrutiny, frequently accompanied by critiques from advocacy groups who contend that betting firms have grown excessively prevalent in sports. However, Bird observes that the merging of sport, entertainment, and betting mirrors an authentic demand from enthusiasts. “It is undeniable that sport, entertainment, and wagering have become increasingly intertwined over the past twenty years,” he elaborated. “The explanation for this is straightforward: a segment of sports fans likes to bet on match results. “When you spend time among the fans, as I did during my years following and working for Manchester City and in football generally, you understand that for many supporters, it is simply a component of the matchday ritual. “This convergence has occurred because the fan communities themselves have merged. Supporters desire thrill and involvement around the game, and betting companies have progressively provided that through more interactive and engaging methods.” What does responsible gambling sponsorship look like? Bird is collaborating extensively with 1xBet to advise the company on responsible gambling protocols and how these tenets should influence its sponsorship strategy. His function, he clarified, focuses on preserving integrity within sports partnerships. “My collaboration with them is essentially about guaranteeing that integrity is the core of every sports sponsorship,” he remarked. “It involves posing the correct questions: Is this alliance suitable? Are the communications responsible? Are we safeguarding the audience while also promoting the brand?” Bird’s viewpoint is also informed by his role as CEO of the Raheem Sterling Foundation, where he has backed programs that work with people and families impacted by addiction. “That involvement provides a very tangible comprehension of the consequences when situations deteriorate. It underscores the importance of detecting potential issues early and, more critically, concentrating on prevention instead of remediation.” Due to that experience, Bird is convinced that integrity must be the foundation of any venture he participates in. “In my view, any partnership in this arena must be grounded in integrity and fundamental decency,” he continued. “My observation of 1xBet is of a company that treats player protection seriously and is considerate about integrating these principles into its marketing.” He contends that education is pivotal to this methodology. “Their philosophy acknowledges that education must be a top priority,” he said. “If you visualize sponsorship as a pyramid, the commercial aspect may be at the peak, but the base must be integrity and protection. “As you ascend that pyramid, all elements are linked. It is impossible to construct a robust commercial framework without a solid foundation of integrity supporting it.” What is the future of gambling sponsorship in sport? It is widely reported that the Premier League is implementing a voluntary prohibition on gambling sponsorships on the front of shirts starting next season. Many anticipate these deals will transition to alternatives like perimeter advertising or training kit sponsorships, though these agreements are not expected to equal the monetary worth of shirt-front partnerships. Although the shift may affect Premier League clubs, Bird thinks the repercussions could be more substantial for clubs lower in the football hierarchy. “For clubs in lower divisions, from the Championship down to non-league, the scenario becomes far more complex,” he noted. “If a club such as Accrington Stanley or Hyde United gets a sponsorship proposal from a betting firm and that revenue enables them to cover staff wages, support athletes, upgrade infrastructure, and fund grassroots football, that money can truly contribute to securing the club's longevity. “The ensuing question is, should they be obliged to reject that chance outright?” Bird is of the opinion that complete prohibitions might not always be the most efficient method for fan protection. “There remains a role in sports for credible betting companies that function responsibly and ethically,” he concluded. “However, those companies need to show they are committed to education, player safety, and a duty of care. If these principles are firmly established, then betting sponsorships can continue to have a place in sports in a manner that is both responsible and sustainable.” 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) -   Partnering with prominent sporting institutions is a tried-and-true brand awareness strategy for sports betting and online casino operators looking to attract new customers. 1xBet, a global sports betting operator holding over 35 local licenses, is among these firms that have leveraged partnerships with some of the world’s most recognizable sporting groups to boost its worldwide brand recognition.   This operator is building a sponsorship portfolio that mirrors the scale and diversity of global sports. Ranging from clubs like FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain to competitions including LaLiga and Serie A, the focus has been on partnerships with strong sporting relevance and fan engagement. However, collaborating with these high-profile organizations and their loyal, often impressionable fan bases comes with an elevated level of responsibility. Why do sports betting operators partner with top sporting brands? Chris Bird, a media expert recently appointed as a consultant for 1xBet, states that companies should approach these partnerships as equally much reputation-building opportunities as commercial ones. “You shouldn’t enter into a sponsorship like this only focusing on the financial upside,” Bird shared. “These partnerships come with massive visibility and influence, so they also carry a responsibility to protect the reputation of the sport, the sponsor and the fans. “Every action you take must center on doing what’s right, in the proper manner, communicating transparently, and demonstrating that sports sponsorship can be conducted with genuine integrity.” Bird has firsthand experience from both sides of the sponsorship dynamic. In addition to advising operators such as 1xBet and Betfred, he previously served as Chief Operating Officer at Manchester City FC between 1999 and 2003. Since that time, the relationship between professional sports and the gambling industry has frequently made headlines, often facing criticism from advocacy groups who argue that betting companies have grown overly dominant in the sports space. Yet Bird notes that the growing overlap between sport, entertainment and betting reflects genuine fan demand. “There’s no doubt that over the last two decades sport, entertainment and betting have become more closely connected,” he explained. “But the reason for that is quite simple: a share of sports fans enjoy betting on match outcomes. “When you spend time on the terraces, as I did during my years supporting and working at Manchester City and in football more broadly, you realize that for many supporters, betting is simply part of the matchday experience. “This convergence has happened because the fan communities themselves have merged. Fans want excitement and engagement around the game, and betting companies have increasingly delivered that through more interactive, entertaining methods.” What does responsible gambling sponsorship entail? Bird is working closely with 1xBet to help guide the company on responsible gambling practices and how those principles should shape its sponsorship activity. His role, he clarified, focuses on upholding integrity across all sports partnerships. “My work with them is all about ensuring integrity lies at the heart of every sports sponsorship,” he shared. “It’s about asking the right questions: Is this partnership appropriate? Are our messaging responsible? Are we protecting the audience as well as promoting the brand?” Bird’s perspective is also shaped by his work as CEO of the Raheem Sterling Foundation, where he has supported initiatives that engage with individuals and families affected by addiction. “That experience gives you a very real understanding of what happens when things go wrong. It reinforces the need to identify potential problems early and, more importantly, to focus on prevention rather than cure.” Given this background, Bird believes integrity must underpin any project he becomes involved in. “For me, any partnership in this space has to be rooted in integrity and basic decency,” he added. “What I’ve seen from 1xBet is a company that takes the issue of player protection seriously and is thoughtful about how those principles are built into its marketing.” Education, he argues, is central to that approach. “Their thinking recognises that education has to sit right at the top of the agenda,” he said. “If you imagine sponsorship as a pyramid, the commercial element might sit at the top, but the foundation has to be integrity and safeguarding. “As you move up that pyramid, everything is connected. You simply cannot build a strong commercial structure without strong integrity underneath it.” What lies ahead for gambling sponsorship in sports? It is well documented that the Premier League is introducing a voluntary ban on front-of-shirt gambling sponsorship from the start of next season. Many expect those partnerships to shift toward alternatives such as perimeter advertising or training kit sponsorships, although these deals are unlikely to match the financial value of shirt-front partnerships. While the change may impact Premier League clubs, Bird believes the consequences could be more significant further down the football pyramid. “For clubs lower down the leagues from the Championship through to non-league the situation becomes much more complicated,” he said. “If a club like Accrington Stanley or Hyde United receives a sponsorship offer from a betting company and that income allows them to pay staff, support players, improve facilities and invest in grassroots football, that funding can genuinely help secure the club’s future. “The question then becomes, should they automatically have to turn that opportunity down?” Bird believes that outright bans may not necessarily provide the most effective route to protecting fans. “There is still a place in sport for reputable betting companies that operate responsibly and with integrity,” he concluded. “But those companies must demonstrate that they are serious about education, player protection and duty of care. If those principles are clearly embedded, then betting partnerships can still exist in sport in a way that is both responsible and sustainable.” 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) -   Sportradar has declared its firm intention to dispute accusations of its involvement with illicit gambling activities, following a significant drop in its share price due to these claims. Reports from two investment research companies, Callisto Research and Muddy Waters, allege that Sportradar has been supplying services to unlawful operators, even as it offers integrity services to legitimate businesses and sports bodies. Both Callisto and Muddy Waters have taken short positions on Sportradar's stock, effectively wagering on a decrease in its value. These two firms operate as short sellers, establishing short positions in companies and then releasing critical research and allegations, which typically result in a fall in share price. This strategy has proven successful for the pair concerning Sportradar. By 4pm BST on April 22, 2026, Sportradar’s stock price on the New York Nasdaq had decreased by 22.75% to $13 per share, a notable drop from its average of $16-$18 over the preceding five days. Allegations from Short Sellers The accusations from Muddy Waters and Callisto Research are extensive, but fundamentally charge Sportradar with hypocrisy: offering its integrity monitoring services to regulated entities while simultaneously selling other services to unlawful operators. Muddy Waters asserts that it dispatched representatives to Sportradar’s booth at the ICE trade show in Barcelona earlier this year. These representatives posed as members of a newly established betting firm targeting Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and China. Online sports wagering is prohibited in three of these four nations, and in Vietnam, it is limited solely to horse racing, greyhound racing, and international football fixtures.  Muddy Waters claims that “not a single Sportradar salesperson declined” their inquiry, and that their representatives were later directed to a Sportradar salesperson specializing in Asia.  Callisto, for its part, alleges that between 30% and 40% of Sportradar’s revenue might originate from unregulated markets. It also claims to have presented its findings to European and North American regulators, stating that three of these have initiated investigations. “We contend that Sportradar will face a choice: either forgo its earnings from illegal operators or risk losing its licenses in Europe and North America,” Callisto states. Sportradar Responds Sportradar holds integrity partnerships with numerous prominent sports organizations, such as FIFA, UEFA, the National Basketball Association (NBA), National Hockey League (NHL), and Major League Baseball (MLB). Accusations of collaboration with illicit firms—operators frequently linked to match-fixing—pose a significant danger to Sportradar’s global integrity operations. This also emerges as regulators and governments worldwide are dedicating increased resources to combating the black market. For instance, the UK has established a taskforce against illegal gambling. Leading operators such as Flutter Entertainment and Entain have openly advocated for stricter measures against black market activities, and the involvement of Asian-focused, non-UK licensed bookmakers in the English Premier League has sparked debate in the nation. Claims that Sportradar is engaging with companies in this sector could harm the Swiss firm’s relationships with some of the largest licensed gambling operators. It is anticipated that the company will vigorously contest these allegations. A statement from Sportradar asserted, “The short reports released today contain numerous factual inaccuracies regarding Sportradar, and we unequivocally dispute these claims.” “These reports exhibit a profound misinterpretation of our business and the industry, and were penned by short sellers aiming to diminish shareholder value and profit from market volatility.” “Sportradar collaborates solely with licensed operators, adheres to stringent global compliance and due diligence protocols, and we uphold our independently audited financial statements, risk disclosures, and the information supplied to investors and regulators.” “We conduct our operations in accordance with the highest ethical standards, consistent with Sportradar’s policies and all relevant laws and regulations.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   New Zealand’s legislation to govern online gambling has cleared its final parliamentary hurdle and is now awaiting Royal Assent. The existing Gambling Act, which dates back to 2003, has long been a point of contention due to a regulatory gap that permitted domestic users to access offshore online gambling platforms. The incoming regulatory structure paves the way for a market launch featuring 15 online gambling permits, fostering a competitive landscape similar to other established international gaming jurisdictions. Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden stated: “The Bill…supports the coalition agreement by closing the gambling tax loophole and requiring licensed online casino operators to pay tax, just like any other business operating in New Zealand.” The legislation introduces requirements for player protection systems, tax structures for permit holders, and legal consequences for non-compliance, including fines reaching up to NZ $5m (£2.1m) for significant or recurring violations. “Under the new framework, up to 15 licences will be available through a competitive process. Licensed operators will be required to exclude problem gamblers, and meet strict harm prevention and consumer protection requirements,” van Velden added. “These tools will ensure that New Zealand law applies to all online casino gambling available in New Zealand, regardless of where operators are located, closing off avenues for avoidance and strengthening the regulator’s ability to monitor and enforce compliance by international operators.” Furthermore, following extensive advocacy from Labor MPs, the bill incorporates mandatory requirements to allocate a portion of the revenue generated by licensed online operators toward community initiatives across New Zealand. “Submissions on this Bill made it clear that New Zealanders also want the benefits from the online casino gambling to flow back to local sports clubs, community groups, and grassroots organisations. This Bill delivers on that expectation,” the Minister noted. Royal Assent is anticipated on 1 May. The current schedule aims to begin accepting licence applications on 1 December, with the 15 successful bidders slated to commence operations on 1 July 2027. At present, Entain possesses an exclusive permit to provide sports betting via TAB NZ’s local operations. The international gambling firm has previously indicated its intention to secure three of the 15 available licences. Conversely, SkyCity Entertainment Group, the nation’s primary land-based casino operator, may be less optimistic. The firm had previously communicated its reservations to van Velden regarding the introduction of a multi-licence online casino 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.