Betsson seeks balanced emerging-market approach as global transformation picks up pace

(AsiaGameHub) -   Betsson executive Cristhian Gómez has expressed support for constructive and transparent dialogue ahead of transformation in emerging markets across Latin America. The operator is well-positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities in the region following strong performance in Latin America during the first quarter of the year. Gómez told SBC Noticias: “We are witnessing a gradual convergence with more established markets, especially in terms of regulation, digital adoption, and user expectations. At Betsson, we have shifted from a market-entry and positioning approach to one centered on sustainable consolidation. “This means prioritizing markets with clear regulatory frameworks, enhancing our long-term value proposition, and continuing to invest in local capabilities. The opportunity remains highly significant, but it now demands greater operational discipline and a more selective strategy.” However, as the group continues its expansion across Latin America, Gómez emphasized that balance is essential to a successful growth strategy. Gómez stated: “The balance between global scale and local relevance is crucial. Our technology is designed to be modular, enabling us to maintain global efficiencies while tailoring the experience to each market. This involves adjustments in payment methods, content, promotions, and communication, always in alignment with local regulations. Rather than choosing between standardization and localization, we believe in an intelligent integration of both.” Betsson reported Latin American revenue of €93 million in Q1 2026, up 24.7% compared to the same period in 2025. This growth was driven by strong performances in Peru and Colombia, two markets that may remain under the radar for many in Latin America due to the ongoing dominance of Brazil in regional discourse. Despite what appears to be a positive trajectory in Betsson’s Latin American performance, the sector continues to face challenges from politicians seeking to increase regulation or impose additional taxes on operators. For example, in Colombia, the Humana government has repeatedly attempted to introduce a tax on gaming in an effort to boost funds for the country’s struggling economy. In light of these challenges, Gomez stressed that open dialogue with regulators and policymakers is vital for the health of the industry. He stated: “We advocate for open, transparent, and constructive dialogue with regulators and governments. The industry plays a significant role in local economies through innovation and tax contributions. “Based on our experience, we recognize that it is essential for the sector to act responsibly and collaboratively over the long term in order to establish itself as a trusted partner in economic development.” Gómez also addressed the challenges facing operators in emerging markets related to payment processing, emphasizing that Betsson’s priority is enhancing the customer experience by ‘increasing processing speed, simplifying user journeys, and managing risk effectively’. “Real-time transfers are key, as they reduce settlement times to seconds and significantly improve user experience and trust,” he added. “Many Latin American markets are mobile-first environments where real-time payments thrive when fully integrated into mobile ecosystems. Additionally, Betsson prioritizes partnerships with reliable and reputable banks and payment providers to ensure top-level speed, security, and availability.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

SBC Summit Canada returns to Toronto ahead of Alberta market launch

(AsiaGameHub) -   SBC Summit Canada is set to return to Toronto next week during a transformative period for the nation's gambling sector. Key discussions will focus on the upcoming launch of Alberta's regulated market, increasing pressure regarding advertising limits, and the high expectations surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from May 19-21, this year’s event is the first since rebranding from the Canadian Gaming Summit. More than 3,000 industry professionals are expected to participate in the only event in the country focused exclusively on the betting and gaming sectors. With Alberta’s regulated market scheduled to open in June, suppliers, affiliates, and operators are moving quickly to establish their presence in what is projected to be a major North American gaming hub. Simultaneously, the industry is navigating uncertainty from Bill S-211 and proposed advertising bans, while the 2026 FIFA World Cup offers a significant chance for sportsbooks to engage with the country's growing interest in soccer. These industry shifts will drive the summit’s three-stage conference program, which includes tracks dedicated to leadership, sports wagering, lottery and land-based gaming, marketing and affiliates, payments, and regulatory compliance. The schedule also features two specialized tracks on player safety and cybersecurity. The Cybersecurity in Gaming Summit, hosted by OLG, will analyze how companies are addressing digital threats, managing AI-related risks, and improving organizational security. Meanwhile, the Player Protection Symposium will look at moving beyond basic regulatory compliance to foster more proactive strategies for player health. Other sessions will explore how operators can turn World Cup interest into long-term customer loyalty, the evolution of omnichannel strategies for land-based and lottery brands, and how firms can prepare for regulatory changes in Alberta and advertising reform. The event will also host several masterclasses on vital operational and legal topics. IMGL will lead sessions on quasi-gambling and grey market activities in Canada, while Lucien Wijsman will conduct workshops on player psychology, pricing models, and the synergy between digital and physical casinos. Over the two-day conference, attendees will hear from a lineup of more than 150 expert speakers. Wednesday’s program begins with an address from Duncan Hannay (President, OLG), followed by a keynote from Nell Watson (Chief Scientist, EthicsNet / Creed Space) regarding the impact of autonomous AI on trust and security in gaming. Ahead of the June market launch in Alberta, Dale Nally (Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction) will provide insights into the province's new iGaming framework. The speaker roster also includes Jennifer Aguiar (Chief Compliance Officer, DraftKings), Jared Beber (CEO, Bet99), Tom Burdakin (VP of Marketing, FanDuel), Stan Cho (Minister of Tourism & Gaming, Ontario), Andrew Garven (Head of Affiliate Marketing, Bet99), Joseph Hillier (CEO, iGaming Ontario), Yohan Mathew (Director of Marketing, BetMGM), Andrew Moreno (Assistant Vice President of Business Development and Government Affairs, bet365), Scott Vanderwel (CEO, PointsBet Canada), Tim Whitehead (Sportsbook Director, DraftKings), and Mark Wrigley (Head of Betting, F1). The exhibition floor will feature the organizations driving the future of the Canadian gaming market, providing attendees with access to the latest services and technologies. Participants can explore new product launches and engage with the teams behind them. Confirmed exhibitors include Altenar, Gigadat, iGaming Ontario, Bet Rite, Payper, Soft2Bet, Top Alliance, Optimove, Paramount Commerce, and others. Reflecting on the upcoming summit, Rasmus Sojmark, CEO & Founder of SBC, noted: “The Canadian gaming industry is currently experiencing significant momentum, which is evident in the high caliber of our speakers and the quality of the agenda. We are excited to host thousands of delegates in Toronto for what will be our most ambitious Canadian event yet.” In addition to the conference and exhibition, the summit offers various on-site networking opportunities. Highlights include the Global Gaming Women Breakfast on May 20 and the First Nations Breakfast on May 21, along with several networking lounges located throughout the venue. VIP Event Pass holders will also have access to two exclusive evening functions: SBC Summit Canada Opening Party — May 19 at RS Sports Bar (badge pickup available) SBC Summit Canada Official Networking Party — May 20 at The Rec Room For more information prior to the event, SBC’s Tom Nightingale (Editor, Canadian Gaming Business) recently appeared on iGaming Daily to discuss the current state of the Canadian market and the regulatory topics expected to lead the conversation at SBC Summit Canada. Registration is now open for those wishing to attend SBC Summit Canada. *VIP Event Pass holders also receive entry to the co-located Canada Fintech Symposium, an event exploring the intersection of financial innovation, compliance, and payments within regulated 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.

JP Morgan Chase Increases Entain Stake – A Sign of Confidence for UK Betting Giant?

(AsiaGameHub) -   JP Morgan Chase has increased its shareholding in Entain, indicating that the UK betting giant remains an attractive target for high-profile investors, particularly following the dissolution of major shareholder Eminence Capital. A filing with the London Stock Exchange confirmed that JP Morgan Chase has raised its stake in Entain to 7% of the company’s total stock. This comprises 5.6% in direct voting rights and an additional 1.4% held through financial instruments. On Friday, May 8, the day JP Morgan Chase surpassed the 5% minimum reporting threshold, Entain’s share price reached a peak of £5.42. At this valuation, the firm’s total investment in Entain could have been worth up to £244.9 million. However, Entain’s share price has experienced a slight decline in subsequent days, currently trading at £5.26 per share as of this article’s publication. JP Morgan cashing in on Entain? The acquisition by a major multinational bank like JP Morgan Chase, a Dow Jones and S&P 100 constituent with over $4.7 trillion in assets, could signal confidence in Entain’s long-term viability. Entain’s shares faced pressure in early May after Eminence Capital, a New York-based hedge fund with over 25 years of activity, ceased operations. Eminence was previously Entain’s third-largest shareholder, holding a 6.5% stake, behind Capital Group and Dodge & Cox. Following the fund’s closure, Eminence founder Ricky Sandler resigned as a Non-Executive Director of Entain. He subsequently divested his remaining shares on May 7, reducing his holdings in the company from 5.8% to zero. Like many other publicly listed and privately held gambling companies, Entain faces significant challenges in 2026. The company’s primary market is the UK, where its prominent Ladbrokes and Coral brands operate thousands of high-street betting shops and popular online betting and gaming platforms. Entain’s strong UK presence has exposed it to the increase in Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) from 21% to 40% this April, a measure introduced for the betting and gaming industry by HM Treasury’s November 2025 Autumn Budget. Crucially, and potentially a source of confidence for Entain and its investors, the company’s extensive network of betting shops is exempt from both the RGD increase and next year’s rise in General Betting Duty. Despite this, the company has still implemented retail cutbacks across its UK-and-Ireland division. The UK industry is also grappling with criticism regarding advertising practices and the prevalence of high-street betting and gaming establishments in local communities. It remains uncertain whether the recent local election results, which saw gains for the more pro-industry Reform UK and anti-industry Green parties, will alter this landscape. Entain ever subject to speculation With Entain’s share price down 31.8% year-to-date, it is plausible that JP Morgan Chase is capitalizing on cheaper shares, potentially anticipating a rebound for the firm this year. Despite reporting multi-million-pound losses for the third consecutive year in 2025, Entain did show some positive performance last year, with group-wide revenue increasing by 3% to £5.25 billion and UK and Irish revenue rising by 6% to £2.19 billion. Rumours of a potential sale of the company also persist, suggesting that investors like JP Morgan Chase might be hoping to profit from a future transaction involving high-profile brands such as Ladbrokes and Coral. However, as Entain’s leadership has not indicated any interest in a sale, any such rumours can only be considered speculation for the time being. Nevertheless, Entain has been an acquisition target in the past, though it has proven notoriously difficult to acquire. In 2021, leadership rejected MGM Resorts International’s $11.1 billion (£8.1 billion) bid, deeming it to ‘significantly undervalue’ the company. 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.

Sherlocq Launches the First AI-Native Regulatory Intelligence Platform for Global Financial Services

NEW YORK, USA AND ABU DHABI, UAE, May 13, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Sherlocq, the first AI-native regulatory intelligence platform for global financial services, today announced its public launch. Designed for compliance officers, lawyers, risk professionals, and regulators who operate at the intersection of law, governance, and institutional accountability, Sherlocq delivers regulatory intelligence that is precise, traceable, and usable at institutional scale.The launch marks the emergence of a new category in enterprise AI: regulatory intelligence, a vertical distinct from generic AI assistants, conventional regtech monitoring tools, and document management platforms. Sherlocq has been built from the ground up to meet the security, privacy, and domain standards that regulated institutions require, and which no general-purpose AI platform has been designed to deliver.THE PROBLEMFinancial institutions, law firms, regulators, and consultants collectively spend over $300 billion every year on regulatory compliance. More than ten million professionals carry the weight of that complexity daily, tracking regulatory changes across dozens of jurisdictions, reviewing thousands of documents, and making high-stakes decisions that can determine the fate of institutions and individuals alike.Until now, the tools available have been fundamentally inadequate: monitoring without interpretation, alerts without answers, search without synthesis. Regulatory research has remained a largely manual process for decades. Vertical AI has already demonstrated category-defining value in adjacent domains. Regulatory intelligence represents a larger, more global, and more complex opportunity.Sherlocq changes that.THE PLATFORMAt launch, Sherlocq covers the regulatory output of governments, supervisory authorities, and enforcement bodies across 30+ jurisdictions, including the US, UK, UAE, Singapore, and Hong Kong. It ingests, structures, and indexes this information continuously, so when a compliance officer, lawyer, or risk professional asks a question, Sherlocq returns a precise, sourced, and traceable answer in seconds. Research that previously required hours of manual work across multiple sources is completed in under a minute.The platform launches with three live capabilities:Regulatory Research and Analysis - Multi-jurisdiction research, cross-border regulatory comparison, compliance framework analysis, and obligation mapping across the full spectrum of financial services regulation, covering all major regulated financial centres.Document Intelligence - Structured review, gap assessment, benchmarking, and policy analysis against applicable regulatory standards, available on the native Sherlocq platform.Sanctions Intelligence - Real-time, multi-regime sanctions research across OFAC, OFSI, EU, UAE, and 320+ data sources in a single query, with full source traceability. The first AI-native platform to deliver this level of depth and auditability across multiple sanctions regimes simultaneously.Sherlocq is available on web, iOS, and Android, for individual professionals and enterprise organisations. AI connectors are live for Claude and ChatGPT, enabling regulatory research to be accessed directly within the tools professionals already use. Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini integrations follow shortly.Sherlocq is certified to ISO 27001 and ISO 27701 standards, meeting the security and data privacy requirements of regulated financial institutions globally.FOUNDER'S STATEMENT"I have spent my career sitting across the table from regulators, leading investigations at the highest levels, and advising institutions in the most consequential moments of their existence. In every one of those engagements, the same problem recurred: brilliant professionals, at world-class institutions, spending most of their time on research and cross-referencing that should have been automated years ago. Not because the technology did not exist. Because no one had built it with the rigour, the domain depth, and the institutional trust that this work demands. That is what we built. Sherlocq is not a general AI tool adapted for compliance. It is the intelligence infrastructure that this industry has always needed and never had," said Bhavin Shah, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Sherlocq.ABOUT THE FOUNDERBhavin Shah is a globally recognised regulatory and compliance leader with over twenty years of experience advising sovereigns, regulators, boards, and financial institutions across their most complex and politically sensitive challenges. His career spans multi-jurisdiction investigations, AML and financial crime reform, regulatory negotiations, crisis management, and governance advisory across the US, UK, Middle East, and Asia Pacific. He has advised some of the world's most consequential regulatory reform processes and financial institutions at moments of institutional stress, enforcement risk, and strategic transformation.Shah is a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader (2020), a board member of the D2A2 digital assets and AI policy forum, and holds executive education credentials from Harvard Business School and Harvard Kennedy School. He serves as an independent non-executive director on the boards of regulated financial institutions, giving him direct and ongoing insight into the governance, compliance, and regulatory pressures that Sherlocq is designed to address.INDUSTRY VOICES"Regulatory complexity has been accelerating for years and this is only compounding with the recent trends toward fragmentation around the globe. The tools available to compliance professionals have not kept pace. Sherlocq addresses that gap in a way that is substantive, not superficial. What distinguishes this platform is that it has been built with a genuine understanding of how regulated institutions work and what they actually need to be more effective and more efficient. The depth, the traceability, and the institutional-grade approach reflect the kind of rigour that regulators and boards rightly expect. I am proud to support Bhavin and the Sherlocq team as they bring this important product to market," said Bryan Stirewalt, Former Chief Executive, Dubai Financial Services Authority; Former National Bank Examiner, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency; Board Advisor, Sherlocq."Running a banking group across more than 35 markets meant living with regulatory complexity as a daily operational reality. Our teams were talented and diligent but the tools available forced them into a process that was slow, fragmented and heavily manual. Sherlocq solves that problem. It gives compliance and legal professionals the structured multi-jurisdictional intelligence that I would have wanted for my team. This is the platform the industry has always needed,” said Arnold Ekpe, Former Group Chief Executive Officer, Ecobank Group; Board Advisor, Sherlocq.ABOUT SHERLOCQSherlocq Inc. is a US-incorporated AI technology company (Delaware) with principal offices in New York and Abu Dhabi, UAE, and the creator of the first AI-native regulatory intelligence platform purpose-built for global financial services. The company has completed a pre-seed financing round backed by investors across the US, UAE, and Europe. Designed for compliance officers, lawyers, risk professionals, regulators, and governance teams, the platform delivers multi-jurisdiction regulatory research, document intelligence, and sanctions intelligence, with workflow automation and deeper enterprise capabilities on the near-term roadmap. Sherlocq is certified to ISO 27001 and ISO 27701 standards and is available globally on web, iOS, and Android. Financial institutions, law firms, and professional services organisations seeking enterprise access are invited to contact hello@sherlocq.com. sherlocq.com | sherlocq.ai | hello@sherlocq.com MEDIA CONTACTFor media enquiries, interview requests with Bhavin Shah, or access to additional materials including product demonstrations, founder biography, and platform assets:Press contact: press@sherlocq.com  Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Agnete Kirk Kristiansen Appointed Chair of the LEGO Foundation

BILLUND, DENMARK, May 13, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - At the LEGO Foundation's annual meeting, the Board of Directors elected Agnete Kirk Kristiansen as Chair of the Board. As fourth generation member of the Kirk Kristiansen family, owners of the LEGO Group, she becomes only the fifth Chair of the Foundation since it was founded in 1986.Agnete Kirk Kristiansen has served as Deputy Chair of the LEGO Foundation since 2023 and replaces her brother Thomas Kirk Kristiansen who steps down to assume the position of Deputy Chair. In addition to her role at the LEGO Foundation, Agnete Kirk Kristiansen also serves as Deputy Chair of KIRKBI A/S, the family-owned holding and investment company that owns 75% of the LEGO Group.As ascending Chair, Agnete Kirk Kristiansen highlighted the role of the LEGO Foundation in building a brighter tomorrow for children around the world:I am truly honored to step into the role as Chair of the LEGO Foundation and to continue our important work for children. The foundation holds a very special place in our family and has done so ever since it was established more than 40 years ago. A deep sense of responsibility to make a positive difference for children runs through our family and I strongly believe that every child should have the opportunity to thrive and grow. I am proud to contribute to this mission and help carry it forward.The change in chair takes place the year after Agnete stepped into the role as chair of non-profit foundation Ole Kirk's Fond. With the transition, the fourth generation of the owner family is broadening its engagement and commitment to active ownership.Descending Chair Thomas Kirk Kristiansen said:It has been a privilege to chair the LEGO Foundation for the past 10 years, and I am very happy to now pass on the role to Agnete. She is deeply committed to the LEGO Foundation mission, and I know she will do her utmost to further the cause of securing a childhood for all. During her tenure as Deputy Chair, she has played an integral part in shaping the foundation's current strategy and as she steps into the role as Chair, we further widen the active ownership and engagement from the family across the LEGO ecosystem.Thomas Kirk Kristiansen has served as Chair of the LEGO Foundation since 2016 and in that period the foundation has committed grants of more than DKK 15 billion (EUR 2 billion) through partner organisations across the globe to improve children's outcomes.For 40 years, the LEGO Foundation has been focused on giving back and building a better world for children. We are very mindful of the trust families and communities place in us, and it is not a responsibility we take lightly. Even in the most challenging settings, the foundation can help put a smile on a child's face, lift up learners of all abilities and change life paths. We do so with the utmost sensitivity and responsibility, said Agnete Kirk Kristiansen.In addition to safeguarding the continued development and success of the LEGO Group as part-owner, the LEGO Foundation pursues its philanthropic mission to support initiatives within education, research, and child development through funding of and close collaboration with organisations such as Brac, IRC, UNICEF, Save the Children, Norwegian Refugee Council and others.Further changes to the LEGO Foundation BoardIn addition to Agnete and Thomas Kirk Kristiansen changing roles as Chair and Deputy Chair, the LEGO Foundation Board of Directors at its May meeting also elected as member of the Board Ingrid Stange, who brings a wealth of experience in philanthropy, education and non-profit leadership. Further, both Jørgen Vig Knudstorp, former CEO of the LEGO Group, and El Hadji Amadou Gueye Sy (As), former Secretary-General of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, left the Board after 16 and four years of service respectively to the LEGO Foundation.Thomas Kirk Kristiansen thanked the two departing Board members for their long-standing commitment to the foundation:We look very much forward to welcoming Ingrid, who brings highly complementary expertise to the board. At the same time, I thank As for bringing invaluable insights and experience to help shape our work.I would also like to extend my sincerest gratitude to Jørgen for his unwavering dedication to the foundation. During his extensive tenure, Jørgen has been instrumental in defining our vision and strategy while never losing sight of the children we are here to serve.Additionally, Malou Aamund, who has served on the Board since 2021, stepped into the role of Second Deputy Chair of the Foundation.Biography: Agnete Kirk KristiansenLEGO Foundation2026 - Chair of the Board of Directors2023 - 2026 Second Deputy Chair of the Board of DirectorsFrom 2008 Member of the Board of DirectorsKIRKBI A/S2024 - Deputy Chair of the BoardCentre for ADHD+, Aarhus, DenmarkFounderOle Kirk's Fond2025 - Chair of the BoardDegreePsychology, Aarhus University, 2010Additional roles, present and past:Executive Manager, KIRK83 Holding ApSMember of the Advisory Board, RucaRepresentative of the fourth generation of the LEGO owner familyExtensive experience in family-owned companies, long-term stewardship and board workLEGO Foundation Board of DirectorsAgnete Kirk Kristiansen - ChairThomas Kirk Kristiansen - First Deputy ChairMalou Aamund - Second Deputy ChairHilary Pennington - Member of the BoardIngrid Stange - Member of the BoardLEGO Foundation Board of Directors Chairs1986 - 1993: Gotfred Kirk Kristiansen (2nd-generation LEGO owner)1993 - 2000: Bent Skov2000 - 2016: Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen (3rd-generation LEGO owner)2016 - 2026: Thomas Kirk Kristiansen (4th-generation LEGO owner)2026 - Agnete Kirk Kristiansen (4th-generation LEGO owner)About LEGO Fonden:The LEGO Foundation is a Danish corporate foundation entrusted with 25 % ownership of the LEGO Group. The Foundation works with partners around the world to support children's needs and champion the dignity of childhood. Through both philanthropic donations and impact investments the Foundation exists to build the conditions and create the space for every child, everywhere, to thrive and grow. More information about the LEGO Foundation can be found at: https://www.legofoundation.com/Contact information:Mads Hvitved Grandmads.hvitved.grand@legofoundation.comSOURCE: LEGO Fonden Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Affordability checks are a delicate process and must be implemented carefully

(AsiaGameHub) -   Affordability has become a central theme in Western gambling markets, particularly as a highly debated requirement in the United Kingdom. During an appearance on iGaming Daily, Ted Menmuir, Editor-at-Large for SBC Media, explained that financial risk assessments are being presented as a premier technical protection and a significant shift following the White Paper's rollout. Although Menmuir noted the appeal of this narrative as the UK industry undergoes major reforms, he pointed out that the pilot program has been running for several years. He observed that stakeholder feedback has been scarce, leaving the project's effectiveness and feasibility uncertain. He suggested that this uncertainty represents a pressing weakness in the implementation of a vital White Paper component. It has become clear that determining or forecasting an individual's financial capacity is an ‘acute science’. Menmuir warned of inconsistent messaging following the trial phase, though he mentioned the commission maintains that only 3% of active accounts will require checks, with the rest remaining frictionless. According to the Editor-at-Large, the criteria for this 3% are currently being defined through a lengthy process that is nearing its end. Menmuir questioned if regulators might have pursued a different strategy for affordability assessments rather than the current data-intensive and potentially more cumbersome path. He issued a warning that if the 3% estimate proves inaccurate, a much larger number of UK players could be subjected to affordability checks. Menmuir criticized the lack of clarity in the commission's approach, noting it overlooks the specific characteristics of the UK gambling sector and its diverse player base, arguing that a uniform strategy is not viable. The Editor-at-Large suggested that high-value and VIP players are likely to avoid friction, potentially driving them to seek alternative platforms. He emphasized that this is a transitional phase where the methodology for Financial Risk Checks is changing rapidly, extending beyond simple compliance. Menmuir remarked that while the DCMS initially sought appropriate consumer protections, the initiative has evolved into a complicated effort to integrate the white paper into a sophisticated gambling 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.

Curacao court issues landmark ruling on gambling oversight

(AsiaGameHub) -   A recent decision by Curaçao’s Common Court of Justice is poised to significantly impact online gambling licensing within the jurisdiction. According to reports from The Curaçao Chronicle, the court ruled that the responsibility for decisions and disclosure concerning online gambling licenses rests with the government and the relevant minister, who in this instance is the Minister of Justice Shalten Hato. The court’s ruling came in a case initiated by journalist Nardy Cramm, who had sought documents related to the gambling sector through Curaçao’s National Ordinance on Public Access to Government Information (Lob). Cramm had argued that Curaçao’s Governor, Mauritsz de Kort, was responsible for decision-making. However, the court rejected this argument, instead affirming that gambling laws and the powers they confer are the responsibility of the government and its respective ministers. Judges also clarified that gambling licenses must be issued via national decrees signed by both the governor and the responsible minister. Nevertheless, political accountability remains with the ministers. Oversight of Curaçao’s gaming industry underwent a change as part of the implementation of the National Ordinance on Games of Chance (LoK), which was enacted in December 2024. Under previous legislation, the Minister of Justice was tasked with overseeing the sector. However, this responsibility has now been formally transferred to the Ministry of Justice. The Curaçao Gaming Authority was established as part of the LoK’s implementation to regulate the sector. Aideen Shortt of the CGA described the shift to oversight by the Ministry of Justice as a ‘natural progression’. She informed iGaming Expert in October 2025: “Having established the legal and operational foundations for the new framework, the CGA is now concentrating on supervision and monitoring – areas that inherently fall within the Justice portfolio.” This latest court ruling provides further clarity to the market and solidifies the Ministry of Justice’s position as the primary overseer of gambling on the island. 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.

Wellgistics Health Announces Pilot MSO Collaboration with Kare PharmTech Targeting $14 Billion U.S. Market for CCM and RPM Services

Highlights:According to third-party industry reports, the U.S. RPM market is currently $14 Billion alone and expected to reach approximately $29 Billion by 2030, representing a 12.6% CAGR, as healthcare providers continue shifting toward value-based and home-based care models¹Pilot initiative launched across multiple provider offices focused on chronic care management (CCM) and remote patient monitoring (RPM) through it's MSO infrastructureApproximately 1,500+ claims generated to date through the pilot infrastructure with expansion roadmap targeting additional providersWellgistics Pharmacy Network of 6,500+ independent pharmacies positioned to support patient engagement and care coordination initiativesParticipating pharmacists expected to gain access to new clinical service revenue opportunitiesTAMPA, FLA., May 13, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Wellgistics Health, Inc. (NASDAQ:WGRX) ("Wellgistics" or the "Company"), a leading healthcare technology and pharmaceutical distribution company, today announced a pilot collaboration with Kare PharmTech and Kare Clinicals integrating its MSO infrastructure to support chronic care management ("CCM") and remote patient monitoring ("RPM") services across participating provider offices. According to third-party industry reports, the U.S. RPM market is currently $14 Billion and expected to reach approximately $29 Billion by 2030, representing a 12.6% CAGR, as healthcare providers continue shifting toward value-based and home-based care models.¹The pilot program currently includes multiple provider offices, with Kare Clinicals MSO serving as the billing provider on behalf of participating offices and rendering providers. The initiative is designed to support patient engagement, care coordination, and longitudinal monitoring programs through scalable operational and technology-enabled workflows. All CCM and RPM services are expected to be furnished and billed by appropriately licensed providers and participating entities in accordance with applicable federal and state healthcare laws, reimbursement requirements, and payor program rules.The companies stated that the pilot infrastructure has already generated 1,500+ claims and is intended to serve as the foundation for broader expansion efforts targeting approximately additional providers over time. As part of the collaboration, Wellgistics Health intends to leverage its network of more than 6,500 independent pharmacies to help identify and support eligible patients who may benefit from CCM and RPM services. Participating pharmacies within the Wellgistics Pharmacy Network may also have opportunities to participate in clinical engagement initiatives associated with the program.Prashant Patel, President and CEO of Wellgistics Health, Inc., stated, "We believe the convergence of pharmacy engagement, provider connectivity, and technology-enabled care coordination represents a significant opportunity to improve patient outcomes while creating new economic opportunities for independent pharmacies. Through this pilot collaboration with Kare PharmTech, we are establishing infrastructure designed to support scalable patient engagement models across chronic care management and remote patient monitoring programs."Mital Panera, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Kare PharmTech, added, "Our focus has been on building an operationally efficient MSO platform capable of supporting providers with care coordination and reimbursement workflows. By collaborating with Wellgistics Health and its pharmacy network, we believe we can further expand patient participation, improve continuity of care, and create a scalable framework for future provider growth."The companies noted that the pilot program remains subject to ongoing operational development, provider participation, and regulatory compliance considerations as expansion efforts continue.About Wellgistics Health, Inc.Wellgistics Health (NASDAQ:WGRX) is a health information technology leader, integrating proprietary pharmacy dispensing optimization artificial intelligence platform EinsteinRx™ into its patented blockchain-enabled smart contracts platform PharmacyChain™ to optimize the prescription drug dispensing journey. Its integrated platform connects 6,500+ pharmacies (the "Wellgistics Pharmacy Network") and 200+ manufacturers, offering wholesale distribution, digital prescription routing, direct-to-patient delivery, and AI-powered hub services such as eligibility, adherence, onboarding, prior authorization, and cash-pay fulfillment as needed to optimize patient access. Wellgistics provides end-to-end solutions designed to restore access, transparency, and trust in the U.S. prescription drug market for independent pharmacies.About Kare PharmTech, LLCKare Clinicals is part of the larger ecosystem of companies owned by Kare PharmTech, LLC, a company controlled by Dr. Kiran Patel. Dr. Patel founded Medicaid provider WellCare in 1992 and sold it in 2002 for $200 million. In 2007, Dr. Patel founded America's 1st Choice Holdings and acquired Freedom Health and Optimum Holdings. In 2017, he sold America's 1st Choice Holdings to Anthem, Inc. Dr. Patel is a noted philanthropist and was named Floridian of the Year by Florida Trend Magazine.Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding the Company's expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, intentions, strategies, future events, or performance, including statements regarding the potential benefits, scalability, expansion, commercialization, provider participation, reimbursement opportunities, patient engagement initiatives, operational capabilities, and future development of the pilot collaboration with Kare PharmTech and Kare Clinicals, as well as the anticipated role of the Wellgistics Pharmacy Network in supporting CCM and RPM initiatives. Words such as "anticipate," "believe," "could," "expect," "intend," "may," "plan," "potential," "project," "seek," "should," "will," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements.These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks relating to provider adoption and participation, reimbursement outcomes, patient engagement levels, operational execution, scalability of the pilot program, regulatory and healthcare compliance considerations, changes in applicable laws or reimbursement policies, market acceptance of the Company's services, competitive factors, and the Company's ability to develop and maintain strategic relationships and successfully implement its business strategy.The pilot collaboration described in this press release is exploratory in nature, and there can be no assurance that the initiative will result in expanded commercial relationships, material revenue opportunities, or long-term operational success.Additional information regarding these and other risks can be found in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including the risk factors contained therein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.Wellgistics Media & Investor ContactMedia: media@wellgisticshealth.comInvestor Relations: IR@wellgisticshealth.com[1] MarketsandMarkets - U.S. Remote Patient Monitoring Market ReportSOURCE: Wellgistics Health, Inc. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Wellgistics Health宣布与Kare PharmTech开展MSO试点合作,瞄准美国价值140亿美元的慢性病管理(CCM)和远程患者监测(RPM)服务市场

重点:· 根据第三方行业报告,随着医疗服务提供者持续向价值导向型和居家护理模式转型,美国远程患者监测(RPM)市场目前规模已达140亿美元,预计到2030年将达到约290亿美元,复合年增长率(CAGR)为12.6%¹· 通过其MSO基础设施,在多家医疗机构启动了试点项目,重点关注慢性病管理(CCM)和远程患者监测(RPM)· 截至目前,通过该试点基础设施已产生约1,500余份理赔,且扩展路线图旨在覆盖更多医疗服务提供者· Wellgistics药房网络拥有6,500多家独立药房,可为患者参与和护理协调计划提供支持· 参与该计划的药剂师有望获得新的临床服务收入机会佛罗里达州坦帕市, 2026年5月13日 - (亚太商讯 via SeaPRwire.com) - 领先的医疗科技与药品分销公司 Wellgistics Health, Inc.(纳斯达克代码:WGRX)(以下简称“Wellgistics”或“公司”)今日宣布,将与 Kare PharmTech 和 Kare Clinicals 开展试点合作,整合其管理服务组织(MSO)基础设施,以支持参与该计划的医疗机构开展慢性病管理(“CCM”)和远程患者监测(“RPM”)服务。据第三方行业报告显示,随着医疗服务提供者持续向价值导向型和居家护理模式转型,美国远程患者监测市场目前规模为140亿美元,预计到2030年将达到约290亿美元,复合年增长率(CAGR)为12.6%。¹该试点项目目前涵盖多家医疗机构,由 Kare Clinicals MSO 代表参与的医疗机构及服务提供方负责账单处理。该计划旨在通过可扩展的运营流程和技术驱动的工作流,支持患者参与、护理协调及纵向监测项目。所有慢性病管理(CCM)和远程患者监测(RPM)服务均应由持有相应执照的医疗服务提供方及参与实体,根据适用的联邦和州医疗保健法律、报销要求以及支付方项目规则提供并进行结算。双方公司表示,试点基础设施已产生1,500多份索赔,并计划以此为基础,逐步扩大服务范围,未来将覆盖更多医疗服务提供者。作为合作的一部分,Wellgistics Health计划利用其覆盖6,500多家独立药房的网络,协助识别并支持可能从CCM和RPM服务中获益的符合条件患者。Wellgistics药房网络内的参与药房还可能有机会参与与该项目相关的临床参与计划。Wellgistics Health, Inc.总裁兼首席执行官Prashant Patel表示:“我们相信,药房参与、医疗服务提供者互联以及技术赋能的护理协调三者的融合,为改善患者预后创造了重要机遇,同时为独立药房开辟了新的经济机遇。通过与 Kare PharmTech 的此次试点合作,我们正在建立一套基础设施,旨在支持慢性病管理及远程患者监测项目中可扩展的患者参与模式。”Kare PharmTech 创始人兼首席执行官米塔尔·帕内拉补充道:“我们一直致力于构建一个运营高效的 MSO 平台,能够为医疗服务提供者提供护理协调和报销工作流支持。通过与Wellgistics Health及其药房网络合作,我们相信能够进一步扩大患者参与度、提升护理连续性,并为未来医疗服务提供者的业务增长构建可扩展的框架。”双方指出,随着扩展工作的持续推进,该试点项目仍需根据运营发展、医疗服务提供者的参与情况以及合规要求进行动态调整。关于 Wellgistics Health, Inc.Wellgistics Health(纳斯达克代码:WGRX)是一家健康信息技术领域的领导者,将专有的药房配药优化人工智能平台EinsteinRx™整合到其获得专利的基于区块链的智能合约平台PharmacyChain™中,以优化处方药配药流程。其集成平台连接了 6,500 多家药房(“Wellgistics 药房网络”)和 200 多家制造商,提供批发分销、数字处方路由、直接送达患者以及由人工智能驱动的枢纽服务,例如资格审核、用药依从性管理、新用户注册、预授权以及按需现金支付履约服务,以优化患者的用药获取渠道。Wellgistics 提供端到端解决方案,旨在为美国独立药房恢复处方药市场的可及性、透明度和信任。关于 Kare PharmTech, LLCKare Clinicals 隶属于 Kare PharmTech, LLC 旗下的企业生态系统,而 Kare PharmTech, LLC 由基兰·帕特尔(Kiran Patel)博士控制。帕特尔博士于 1992 年创立了医疗补助计划(Medicaid)服务提供商 WellCare,并于 2002 年以 2 亿美元的价格将其出售。2007年,帕特尔博士创立了America's 1st Choice Holdings,并收购了Freedom Health和Optimum Holdings。2017年,他将America's 1st Choice Holdings出售给Anthem, Inc.。帕特尔博士是一位知名慈善家,曾被《佛罗里达趋势》杂志评为“年度佛罗里达人”。前瞻性陈述本新闻稿包含《1995年私人证券诉讼改革法案》所界定的前瞻性陈述。前瞻性陈述包括关于本公司预期、信念、计划、目标、意图、战略、未来事件或业绩的陈述,包括关于与 Kare PharmTech 和 Kare Clinicals 开展试点合作所带来的潜在效益、可扩展性、扩展、商业化、服务提供商参与、报销机会、患者参与计划、运营能力及未来发展的陈述,以及 Wellgistics 药房网络在支持 CCM 和 RPM 计划方面预计将发挥的作用。诸如“预期”、“相信”、“可能”、“期望”、“打算”、“或许”、“计划”、“潜在”、“预测”、“寻求”、“应当”、“将”等词语及类似表述旨在识别前瞻性陈述。这些前瞻性陈述基于当前的预期和假设,涉及可能导致实际结果与这些陈述所表达或暗示的结果存在重大差异的风险和不确定性。此类风险和不确定性包括但不限于:与医疗服务提供者的采用和参与相关的风险、报销结果、患者参与度、运营执行、试点项目的可扩展性、监管和医疗保健合规性考虑、适用法律或报销政策的变更、市场对公司服务的接受度、竞争因素,以及公司建立和维持战略关系并成功实施其业务战略的能力。本新闻稿所述的试点合作具有探索性质,无法保证该举措将带来更广泛的商业关系、重大的收入机会或长期的运营成功。有关这些及其他风险的更多信息,可查阅本公司向美国证券交易委员会提交的文件,包括其中所载的风险因素。除法律要求外,本公司不承担因新信息、未来事件或其他原因而更新或修订任何前瞻性陈述的义务。Wellgistics 媒体与投资者联系方式媒体:media@wellgisticshealth.com投资者关系:IR@wellgisticshealth.com[1] MarketsandMarkets - 美国远程患者监测市场报告来源:Wellgistics Health, Inc. Copyright 2026 亚太商讯 via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

bet-at-home faces regulatory headwinds from Austrian and German rules

(AsiaGameHub) -   Germany-headquartered operator bet-at-home has reported a challenging start to 2026 as first quarter revenues declined sharply following the impact of Austria’s betting tax increase. Gross betting and gaming revenue (GGR) for Q1 2026 fell 16.1% year-on-year to €11.34m (£9.83m), down from €13.52m in the corresponding period last year. The decline was driven primarily by weaker online sports betting performance, with sportsbook GGR falling from €12.01m to €9.63m. Despite the significant sportsbook drop, the company expects this summer’s 2026 FIFA World Cup to provide a boost to customer activity later in the year. The financial results are the first since the company was cast aside by sports entertainment giant Banijay Group, which sold its majority 53.9% controlling stake in the business, finalised on 2 January. This move by Banijay was made to focus on the development of its new Banijay Gaming unit, formed by the merger of Betclic and Tipico Sportwetten. Regulations stifle progress Much of the decline was, according to leadership, down to Austria’s betting tax increase from 2% to 5% of stakes, which came into effect on 1 April 2025. In further regulatory woes for the business, Germany’s Interstate Treaty on Gambling (GlüStV 2021), which has rules including a €1,000 monthly deposit cap, a 5.3% stake tax, €1 slot stake limits and 5-second spin rules, remains in place. An ongoing review is set to be complete by the end of the year, but until an update is issued, such intense regulation will remain in place in bet-at-home’s domestic market. “The results of the bet-at-home.com AG Group in the first quarter of 2026 reflect a challenging market environment,” said bet-at-home Chief Executive Officer, Stefan Sulzbacher. “Gross betting and gaming revenues declined by 16.1% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the previous year to €11.34m, primarily due to weaker performance in the online sports betting segment. “In the comparative period, the increase in the betting tax in Austria from 2% to 5% of stakes (effective 1 April 2025) had not yet come into effect. The immediate pass-through of the increased costs to customers from June 2025 led to a decline in revenues as well as overall customer activity.” Sports betting volume fell significantly from €89.78m to €67.86m YoY, contributing to total betting and gaming volume declining from €103.2m to €82.3m. In contrast, the operator’s online gaming segment continued to grow. Online gaming GGR rose 13.1% YoY to €1.71m, while gaming volume increased from €13.42m to €14.46m. Net betting and gaming revenue fell from €10.81m to €8.6m after betting fees, gambling levies and VAT deductions. The company’s profitability also deteriorated during the quarter. EBITDA before special items at bet-at-home fell to a loss of €149,000 compared to positive EBITDA of €1.6m in Q1 2025, while reported EBITDA dropped from €1.17m to a loss of €320,000. Meanwhile, consolidated profit swung from a €887,000 profit last year to a €461,000 loss for the quarter. Marketing expenditure declined 7.4% YoY to €4.49m. bet-at-home.com said its marketing strategy for 2026 is heavily focused on the upcoming World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico, but that this “continues to be offset by existing regulatory, legal, and competitive uncertainties”. Other operating expenses fell 20.9% to €2.44m due to lower service provider costs, reduced legal advisory expenses and lower foreign exchange losses. Despite the weaker quarter, bet-at-home maintained a solid liquidity position. Cash and cash equivalents stood at €26.68m as of 31 March, down only slightly from €27.89m at the end of 2025. Looking ahead, the firm said it remains focused on its core German and Austrian markets. Sulzbacher added: “An emphasis is placed on the start of the FIFA World Cup, which will take place in June and July 2026 in the US, Canada, and Mexico. We expect this major event to be an additional positive driver for further business development. “In particular, increased customer activity and growth in new registrations compared to the 2025 financial year are anticipated.” bet-at-home’s recent challenges The company reiterated its full-year guidance for 2026, forecasting gross betting and gaming revenue of €46m-€54m and EBITDA before special items up to €4m. Last year, bet-at-home reported €48m revenue and €2.4m in EBITDA before special items, but these numbers have been on a gradual decline for the best part of a decade. The firm is no longer the powerhouse it once was in the late 2010s, when it was reporting turnovers of more than double of that €48m figure, and that decline has caused investors to turn away. This has led to a mammoth dip in its share price, market cap and reputation on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, where shares are trading way off its mid-2017 peak of €150. Since then, shares have dropped by over 98% and now sit at the €2.61 mark, while bet-at-home’s market cap is €18.3m – some distance away from the approximate €740m it was valued at back when its stock peaked. Nevertheless, for 2026, Sulzbacher has stood firm on the current €48m revenue outlook, despite ongoing market pressures and operational uncertainty. 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.

Labour Leadership Turmoil: Betting Markets Price Starmer’s Ouster Amid Party Crisis

(AsiaGameHub) -   Prime Minister Keir Starmer maintains he has no plans to step down in the wake of last week’s local elections, where Labour lost 1,496 council seats throughout England. On the local front, the landscape of UK politics has changed significantly, with Labour and Conservative parties—longtime mainstays—losing constituency backing to Reform UK, the Green Party, and a fresh group of independent councillors. But Labour’s heavy defeat isn’t unexpected; all analysts foresaw a drubbing for the ruling party’s council seats, given it’s widely seen as stagnant. Starmer refuses to bow out just yet Within Labour circles, attention is now fixed on Starmer and the extent to which he’s directly responsible for this historic thrashing. As of this morning, 93 Labour MPs have publicly demanded Starmer resign or outline a timeline for stepping down, ramping up pressure on the party leader even though Labour still holds a strong parliamentary majority in the House of Commons. Labour’s crisis is made worse by projections from local election vote shares: if those results were repeated nationwide, Labour could plummet from its governing position to around 110 Commons seats, while Reform UK would become the biggest parliamentary group. This possible outcome has stoked rising anxiety among Labour MPs about whether Starmer is still the right person to protect the party’s 2024 general election victory—dubbed by critics as a “loveless majority”. Sam Rosbottom: Betfair Betting markets have responded sharply to the growing political unrest. Sam Rosbottom, a spokesperson for Betfair Politics, commented: “Westminster is once again in chaos. Sir Keir Starmer’s future as Prime Minister is very much up in the air, and bettors don’t think he’ll make it through the year, never mind to the next general election.” Rosbottom pointed out that Starmer’s odds of leaving 10 Downing Street between July and September are now 5/7 (a 58% implied chance), down significantly from 7/5 (41%) the previous night. Additionally, the PM has 1/20 odds of being replaced before the next general election. “It’s becoming more and more probable that the UK will have four Prime Ministers in four years—almost as frequent as managerial changes at Chelsea Football Club,” Rosbottom added. “Though the betting market for the next Prime Minister is a bit more stable than the one for Chelsea’s next manager.” Burnham and Streeting emerge as top contenders As talk of a Labour leadership contest grows, betting markets have zeroed in on three front-runners. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is currently leading Betfair’s odds at 13/5 (28%), even though there are questions about how he would get back to Westminster. Health Secretary Wes Streeting is next at 10/3 (23%), while former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has odds of 9/2 (18%). Kyle McGrath from Entain Politics stated that political betting markets have quickly become one of the industry’s busiest areas this year. “I also manage Eurovision betting here, which I thought would be the biggest political betting event of the year,” McGrath said. “But a Burnham vs Streeting contest later this year might come close.” McGrath also noted that customer betting patterns suggest more people expect Starmer to leave office before the end of 2026. “Personally, I don’t think KS will last until the end of the year,” he commented. “92 MPs have now called for his resignation, and there are probably many more behind closed doors—including in his own cabinet—who feel the same way.” UK politics shifts to a focus on deal-making Entain’s trading desk reports that most bets on Starmer’s departure date are centered on 2026, with the April-June 2026 window being especially popular among those looking for a leadership transition timeline. Regarding Labour’s leadership race, McGrath said bets are fairly evenly split between Burnham, Rayner, and Streeting, with outsiders like Al Carns also gaining some backing lately. Outside of Labour’s internal issues, the local elections are being seen more and more as proof that Britain has entered an era of fragmented politics, similar to other European countries. The traditional parties—Labour, Conservatives, and Liberal Democrats—are no longer part of a three-party system; instead, the electoral landscape is split, driven by the growing support for Reform UK and the Green Party. For long-time Westminster figures, these changes mean future party leaders will need a very different set of political skills—they can’t just be ideological leaders. Labour, in particular, needs more negotiators and deal-makers who can handle a split electorate with conflicting demands on issues like immigration, cost of living, public services, and ongoing identity politics. Even with increasing market talk of political instability, bookmakers don’t think Britain is heading for an early general election. Entain currently offers 8/1 (11% chance) odds for a 2026 general election and 5/1 for 2027. “Some customers are betting on an early election, possibly influenced by Farage and Tice’s frequent comments on the subject,” the company noted. A shared conclusion among Westminster insiders and betting analysts is that the UK has entered a new political era—one that must address the needs of a diverse and split electorate. Sir Keir Starmer could very well be the first major victim of this generational shift… 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.

S&P Tear Sheet: GTJAI Continues to Play a Key Role in the Group’s International Strategy

HONG KONG, May 13, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Recently, in its latest Tear Sheet, S&P Global stated that it expects Guotai Junan International Holdings Limited (“Guotai Junan International” or “GTJAI”, Stock Code: 1788.HK), a subsidiary of Guotai Haitong Group, and its intermediate holding company Guotai Haitong Financial Holdings Ltd.  (“GTHTFH”), to continue to play a key role in the international strategy of their ultimate parent Guotai Haitong Securities Co. Ltd. (“GTHT”).In its Tear Sheet, S&P Global pointed out that the business synergies between GTJAI and its parent company, particularly in investment banking and wealth management, reinforce its importance within the group. International development is one of GTHT’s core strategic priorities, and GTJAI will continue to play a key role in the Group’s efforts to strengthen its global presence. In 2025, GTJAI and GTHTFH recorded 284% and 85% profits growth, respectively, and accounted for about 3% and 8% of GTHT’s net profit during the year. This strong financial performance robustly demonstrates the Company’s contribution to the overall business of the Group.S&P Global expects that GTJAI will remain one of the Group’s core subsidiaries over the next two years and will continue to receive support from GTHT, with its issuer credit rating and “stable” outlook moving in tandem with those of the parent. S&P Global believes that GTJAI has access to timely parental support, including indirect benefits from the Shanghai government through GTHT if needed.This Tear Sheet fully reflects the Company’s current situation and expectations for future development. GTJAI will resolutely align with the Group’s international strategy, continuously enhance its own professional capabilities and the efficiency of business synergies with the Group, and contribute to Guotai Haitong Group’s goal of becoming a first-class investment bank with international competitiveness and market leadership.Note: This article is based on an independent opinion document (Tear Sheet: Guotai Junan International Holdings Ltd. And Guotai Haitong Financial Holdings Ltd.) published by S&P Global Ratings on May 5, 2026. This document does not constitute a rating action.About GTJAIGuotai Junan International (Stock Code: 1788.HK), a subsidiary of Guotai Haitong Group, is the market leader and first mover for internationalization of Chinese Securities Company as well as the first Chinese securities broker listed on the Main Board of The Hong Kong Stock Exchange through initial public offering. Based in Hong Kong with subsidiaries in Singapore, Vietnam and Macau, GTJAI’s business covers major markets around the world, offering high-quality and diversified comprehensive financial services for clients' overseas asset allocation. Core business includes wealth management, institutional investor services, corporate finance services, investment management and other business. GTJAI has been assigned “Baa2” and “BBB+” long term issuer rating from Moody and Standard & Poor respectively, as well as an MSCI ESG “AAA” rating, Wind ESG “A” rating and SynTao Green Finance “A” rating in ESG. Additionally, its S&P Global ESG score leads 81% of its global peers. The controlling shareholder, Guotai Haitong Securities (Stock Code: 601211.SH/ 2611.HK), is the comprehensive financial provider with a long-term, sustainable and overall leading position in the China’s capital markets. For more information about GTJAI, please visit https://www.gtjai.com.     Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

标普简报-国泰君安国际继续在集团国际化战略中发挥关键作用

香港, 2026年5月13日 - (亚太商讯 via SeaPRwire.com) - 近日,标普全球(S&P Global)在其发布的最新简报中明确表示,预计国泰海通集团下属公司国泰君安国际控股有限公司(“国泰君安国际”、“公司”,股份代号:1788.HK)及其直接控股公司国泰海通金融控股有限公司(“国泰海通金控”)作为母公司国泰海通证券股份有限公司(“国泰海通”)核心子公司,将继续在集团国际化战略中发挥关键作用。标普全球在简报中指出,国泰君安国际与母公司在投资银行及财富管理领域的业务协同效应显著,进一步强化了其在集团内部的重要性。国际化发展为国泰海通的核心战略重点之一,国泰君安国际将继续在集团加强全球布局的过程中扮演关键角色。2025年,国泰君安国际及国泰海通金控分别实现利润增长284%及85%,分别占国泰海通证券当年净利润约3%及8%。这一强劲的财务表现,有力印证了公司对集团整体业务发展的贡献。标普全球预期,国泰君安国际未来两年仍将作为集团核心子公司之一,持续获得母公司支持,其发行人信用评级及“稳定”展望将与母公司保持同步。标普全球认为,公司可获得母公司稳定、及时的支持,包括在必要时通过国泰海通间接受益于上海政府的资源。这份简报充分反应了公司的现况及对未来发展的预期。国泰君安国际将坚定不移地配合集团国际化战略,持续提升自身的专业能力及与集团的业务协同效率,为国泰海通集团成为具备国际竞争力与市场引领力的一流投资银行作出贡献。注:本文内容基于标普全球评级于2026年5月5日发布的独立观点文件(Tear Sheet:Guotai Junan International Holdings Ltd. And Guotai Haitong Financial Holdings Ltd.),该文件不构成评级行动。关于国泰君安国际国泰海通集团下属公司国泰君安国际(股票代号:1788.HK),是中国证券公司国际化的先行者和引领者,公司是首家通过IPO于香港联合交易所主板上市的中资证券公司。国泰君安国际以香港为业务基地,并在新加坡、越南和澳门设立子公司,业务覆盖全球主要市场,为客户境外资产配置提供高质量、多元化的综合性金融服务,核心业务包括财富管理、机构投资者服务、企业融资服务、投资管理等。目前,国泰君安国际已分别获得穆迪和标准普尔授予“Baa2”及“BBB+”长期发行人评级,MSCI ESG“AAA”评级, Wind ESG“A”评级及商道融绿ESG“A”评级,同时其标普全球ESG评分领先全球81%同业。公司控股股东国泰海通证券(股票代号:601211.SH/2611.HK)为中国资本市场长期、持续、全面领先的综合金融服务商。更多关于国泰君安国际的信息请见:https://www.gtjai.com Copyright 2026 亚太商讯 via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Asia Summit on Global Health and Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair concluded successfully

HONG KONG, May 13, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The sixth Asia Summit on Global Health (ASGH), jointly organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), and the 17th Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair (Medical Fair), organised by the HKTDC and co-organised by the Hong Kong MedTech Association, have concluded successfully. As one of the two flagship events of International Healthcare Week, the ASGH gathered some 3,000 participants from 43 countries and regions and arranged over 400 one‑on‑one deal-making meetings, while also facilitating the signing of multiple cooperation agreements, with a strong focus on the application of artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, the Medical Fair welcomed some 13,000 buyers from 61 countries and regions for sourcing and networking. More than 670 business matching meetings were arranged during the fair, supporting buyers and exhibitors in identifying potential partners and advancing concrete business discussions. Together, the two flagship events facilitated over 1,000 high-quality collaborations and connections, fully demonstrating the synergy between medical technology, investment and industry applications.Over 90 global leaders share insight into healthcare innovation development and AI applicationsThe sixth ASGH, a two-day event jointly organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the HKTDC, has concluded under the theme Fuelling Healthcare Breakthroughs, focusing on public health, frontier healthcare technologies, AI breakthroughs, healthcare investment and the silver health. The ASGH brought together over 90 international healthcare officials, scientific pioneers, Nobel laureate, investors and corporate leaders to share insight and explore pathways to accelerate innovation across the global healthcare ecosystem.At Plenary Session I – Strengthening Pandemic Preparedness through Global Collaboration. Prof Ibrahim Abubakar, Vice‑Provost (Health) and Professor of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, University College London, said: “Research platforms need to be developed long in advance of pandemics, and we must invest in infectious disease infrastructure, and beyond, whether it’s in AI technology or in  disease management.”Plenary Session II – Fuelling Healthcare Breakthroughs centred on the commercialisation of medical research, biomedical innovation and healthcare investment opportunities. Jonathan Symonds, Chair of GSK, said: “All developed countries are now facing ageing, low birth rates and an increasing impact of chronic disease. So, it's no longer just a health system problem, but it's now an economic problem.”During the Dialogue with Global Pioneer in Health session, Prof Michael Levitt, 2013 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry and Robert W and Vivian K Cahill Professor of Cancer Research at the Stanford University School of Medicine, said that Hong Kong’s healthcare system possesses unique advantages and high-quality statistical data, making it potentially more valuable for research than the US and other countries or regions, in  areas such as longevity.The ASGH featured multiple thematic sessions spotlighting the application of AI in healthcare. Sustaining the momentum of the “Intelligence at Scale: How AI is Powering Real-World Healthcare Revolution” session on the first day, another thematic session on the second day, “Transforming Healthcare through Digital Health & AI Innovations”, explored how digital technologies and artificial intelligence are reshaping healthcare systems. Natasha Chhatrapati, Senior Director, Business Transformation Lead for International, Pfizer Inc., said: “AI is compressing timelines across the entire healthcare journey, from drug development and clinical research to how we engage with physicians and how patients consume care.”The session “The Next Frontier in China’s Healthcare Industry” examined strategies to advance the Chinese Mainland healthcare sector. Dr James Xue, Founder, Chairman and CEO of CANbridge Pharmaceuticals Inc, said: “China has an edge because of the population. A bigger population base will allow companies to build better drug candidates.”With silver health emerging as a major global focus, the Silver Health Chapter included the session “Unlocking Growth in Silver Health: From Precision Medicine to Smart Ageing Innovations”, which brought together leading experts to discuss challenges and opportunities arising from population ageing. Dr Alex Mihailidis, Associate Vice‑President, International Partnerships and Professor at the University of Toronto and Scientific Director at AGE‑WELL, provided in‑depth insight into breakthroughs in prevention and treatment of age‑related diseases, offering guidance for the development of the silver health economy and smart ageing solutions. He said: “For a technology to be successful with older people, it’s not just the technology, but also the service delivery model, as well as the practice and policy.”The newly introduced session “CSO Insights: Catalysing Scientific Breakthroughs and Investments for Future Health” featured discussions on research strategy and the acceleration of scientific discoveries into practical applications. Dr Li Xiang, Senior Vice President, Co-President and Chief Scientific Officer, Innovative Medicines Division, Fosun Pharma, said: “In our business, it is very important to begin with the end in mind. When you set out to do your discovery program, you must already know what the unmet needs are and how difficult the clinical trials will be.”Over 400 deal‑making sessions drive investment and business matchingBeyond thought leadership, the ASGH continued to serve as an effective platform for deal‑making and investment matching. Dedicated deal-making at the ASGH facilitated one‑to‑one meetings to promote tangible collaboration.During the ASGH, over 400 business and investment matching meetings were arranged, attracting investment institutions and healthcare enterprises from Europe, the US, Asia and the Guangdong‑Hong Kong‑Macao Greater Bay Area to explore opportunities in investment, technology deployment and market expansion.Colin Tan, Director of Operations at TusPark Holdings, an investor from the UK, said: “This year, I brought around 15 UK healthcare and life sciences companies to exhibit at the UK Pavilion. The ASGH has been an excellent platform to forge such connections. We are now facilitating a significant partnership in cancer research between a leading UK organisation and a Hong Kong counterpart.”ASGH also featured the ASGH Business Hub and the InnoHealth Showcase, bringing together some 180 healthcare innovation companies from 12 countries and regions to present cutting‑edge solutions across biotechnology, digital health and medical technologies.Strategic Partner of this year’s Summit, Shanghai Industrial Investment (Holdings) led multiple subsidiaries in exhibiting at the ASGH. Gu Feng, Chief Finance and Investment Officer, said that the ASGH fully showcased Hong Kong’s international competitiveness: “Chinese companies expanding overseas will come to Hong Kong, and foreign companies seeking to procure will do the same. Here we can not only acquire resources, but also connect and match resources, talent, capital, and other key elements.”AQ Biotech from Finland, exhibiting at ASGH for the first time, said that their objective was to explore the Asian market. They view Hong Kong as a vital hub that adds internationally recognised credibility, connectivity and commercial acumen, helping them take their work global.Dr Iman Manavitehrani, Founder and Director of SDIP Innovations, the Australian exhibitor returning for the second year, said: “Last year’s visit led directly to an IGNITE grant from HSITP, and we are now part of the first Australian cohort based here. With Hong Kong as our gateway to the GBA and Chinese Mainland, I am confident the connections made at the ASGH will lead to further collaboration and partnership.”Third-time exhibitor, Prof Leung Kam-tong, Founder and CEO of local healthcare startup Homing Pharmaceuticals, said: “We’ve already reconnected with three investors here for in-depth discussions on our fundraising strategy, taking our navigated CAR-T therapy to first-in-human clinical trials. Sessions outside my field sparked new ideas around refining the therapy and exploring new directions. I also met professors from Australia and Singapore, and look forward to exploring international R&D collaborations as we bring this therapy worldwide.”Building bridges for “go global” and other cross‑border healthcare collaborationsBuilding on its track record of facilitating collaboration, the ASGH enabled the signing of 10 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), such as those between the HKSH Medical Group and Siemens Healthineers, as well as Australian AI-powered clinical documentation platform startup Heidi Health, which signed separate agreements with local medical group EC Healthcare and Hong Kong Metropolitan University. These collaborations will drive deeper cooperation, including AI‑enabled healthcare applications and clinical research, further reinforced the ASGH’s role as a bridge connecting the Chinese Mainland and international healthcare ecosystems. Notably, HKSH Medical Group and Siemens Healthineers signed an agreement, formally establishing HKSH as Siemens Healthineers’ first Photon Counting Computed Tomography Simulation (PCCT-Sim) Reference Site in Asia.On the second day, the GoGlobal CONNECT series: Hong Kong as a Superconnector to Empower Global Expansion of Pharmaceutical Enterprises workshop brought together experts in regulation, clinical trials, IP protection and distribution to share practical insight on international expansion. Prof Bernard Cheung, Chief Executive Officer, Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute, said: “Public hospitals in Hong Kong have very good electronic medical records that go back 30 years. It’s a unique asset that benefits not just people in Hong Kong but the world, as it allows us to study the long-term progression of diseases.”The ASGH also featured the “GoGlobal Connect” and the Business of Healthcare Advisory Zone, enabling healthcare enterprises to connect with service providers and receive practical support for developing “go global” strategies. Xiang Jun, Chairman of 365 Intelligence (Beijing) Medical Technology Co., Ltd, said that the ASGH helped them gain a deeper understanding of Hong Kong’s professional services and of HKTDC’s “GoGlobal Connect” initiative. The company is particularly interested in Hong Kong’s research data and service resources, and plans to establish research operations in Hong Kong in the long term. Mark Xu, Regional Director of Sales and Marketing, Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech Co, Ltd, also successfully connected with service providers, including DKSH and the Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute, through this workshop. They engaged in in-depth discussions on potential collaboration opportunities for “going global”.During the summit, the HKTDC signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Hong Kong Singapore Business Association (HSBA), supporting Mainland enterprises’ “going global” via Hong Kong to target the Singapore and ASEAN markets. Prime Minister and Minister for Finance of Singapore Lawrence Wong visited Hong Kong in March this year, during which both governments agreed to deepen cooperation. The HSBA and the HKTDC, together with professional service providers, plan to strengthen trade and economic ties between the two cities. By leveraging their respective strengths and promoting complementary cooperation, they aim to drive business development, assist Chinese Mainland enterprises in expanding regionally and internationally, and enhance tripartite collaboration among Singapore, Hong Kong, and the Chinese Mainland.The Medical Fair brings together global industry players to foster diverse collaborations, strengthening Hong Kong’s status as a global healthcare hubThe Medical Fair was being held concurrently. Organised by the HKTDC and co-organised by the Hong Kong MedTech Association, the Medical Fair adopted the theme Innovations Boosting Smart Health Experience. Focusing on three key areas: MedTech, GeronTech, and Preventive Healthcare, the event provided a high-efficiency trade and matchmaking platform for global R&D institutions, manufacturers, and medical professionals to showcase the latest industry trends. The number of exhibitors featuring smart ageing products and green solutions doubled this year, with many showcasing innovative solutions integrating AI and robotics to meet evolving market demands.The Medical Fair featured some 300 exhibitors from 10 countries and regions, including Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, Macao, Taiwan, Australia, Canada, Korea, New Zealand, United States and Vietnam. The Fair featured seven major zones, including Startup Zone, Hospital Equipment and Digital Health, Biotech and Lab Diagnostics, Laboratory Technologies and Healthcare Services, Medical Supplies, and the World of Health and Wellness, showcasing the latest medical technologies and innovative solutions. Pavilions from leading local universities, the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, and the Hong Kong MedTech Association underscored a multi-sector commitment to fostering collaborative innovation across government, industry, academia, research, and investment sectors.Exhibitors acknowledged that AI has become a core driver of healthcare services, while the Medical Fair serves as a one-stop platform that brings together a complete healthcare ecosystem, successfully integrating AI, robotics technology and a wide range of smart medical devices. Wong Cheung Hang, Sales and Marketing Manager of Health Care & Co, a medical and rehabilitation equipment company in Hong Kong, said, “Buyers showed particular interest in our AI management systems, AI-assisted robots and various smart healthcare applications. With healthcare providers increasingly adopting smart health solutions, the market outlook is promising. We expect this fair to drive at least 20% business growth compared with last edition and enable us to promote smart rehabilitation technologies.”  Many overseas exhibitors succeeded in securing business matching opportunities at the fair. Peter Li, Chief Executive Officer of first-time exhibitor GenomeMe Lab Inc from Canada, said, “We connected with buyers from Hong Kong, Thailand and India, and identified potential local partners in the healthcare and hospital sectors. This will help us explore entry into hospital channels, establish distribution networks, and lay the groundwork for future expansion into Southeast Asia, Australia and Korea.”The Medical Fair has facilitated numerous cross-regional collaborations, serving as a key platform for industry exchange and business matching. Dresio Limited, participating in the Fair for the third time under the banner of Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, showcased its contactless physiotherapy assessment system Accudex, drawing strong interest from buyers across Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, Singapore and the Philippines. Curtis Wong, Chief Operating Officer and Head of Research and Development of the company, said, “This year’s fair outperformed previous editions in footfall, business exchanges and partnership discussions. We have engaged with a large number of high-quality buyers from hospitals, rehabilitation centres and the insurance sector.” The company met with a Filipino buyer on the first day of the exhibition and subsequently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the third day, expanding its software into Southeast Asia, with the contract value expected to exceed HK$1 million.The Medical Fair was held concurrently with the ASGH and the Hospital Authority (HA) Convention, bringing together key industry stakeholders and generating strong synergy. Exhibitors were able to seize the opportunity to meet with numerous representatives from the Hospital Authority and major healthcare institutions, fostering meaningful exchanges and collaboration. Among them, first-time exhibitor PalmX Technology Limited showcased its palm vein biometric technology at the Startup Zone. Jeffrey Lo, Vice President of the company, was impressed by the Fair’s response, which exceeded his expectations. He added that within the first two days, they received over 20 enquiries from hospitals and healthcare institutions, including representatives from the Hospital Authority, and attracted interest from overseas buyers in Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and India, with potential orders ranging from US$10,000 to several hundred thousand dollars.This year’s Medical Fair attracted a significant number of buyers from emerging markets seeking sourcing opportunities. Dr Keo Sovann, an otorhinolaryngologist from Orchid Hospital in Cambodia who visited the fair specifically for new medical equipment, said, “I met more than 10 exhibitors from Chinese Mainland, Australia and Malaysia, which has helped expanding our hospital’s procurement network and advanced our internationalization efforts. I am particularly interested in a Hong Kong company’s AI-powered medical imaging solutions and X-ray equipment; we are considering an order of 20 units.” A buyer from Morocco also attended the fair for the first time to source laboratory equipment. Rachid Zemmouri, Business Development Manager of Promamec, said he met with at least 15 exhibitors from Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, Taiwan and Indonesia. Discussions are underway on thermodynamics-related solutions with the aim of application to eye-disease treatment. Subject to satisfactory progress, he plans to invite partners to Morocco for site visits. He added that the company has an annual procurement budget of approximately US$70 million and intends to return for future sourcing.The Fair hosted over 50 themed forums and seminars, with leading technology companies, industry experts and academics sharing the latest industry trends, technological innovations and practical insights to foster in-depth exchange, collaboration and inspire trade buyers. Highlight sessions included “Accelerating Mental Health Innovation through AI Research and Adoption”, “HKMTA Medical Fair Forum 2026: The Medtech Solutions - Greater Bay Area & Overseas”, “The ASEAN Gateway: Navigating Regulations, Capital and Distributions from Hong Kong”, and “Decoding the Demand for Gerontechnology” among others, all of which attracted strong audience engagement. Selected sessions are available for replay on the Fair’s website for extended engagement.The exhibition continued to adopt the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model. Global exhibitors, industry professionals, and buyers could make use of the Click2Match and explore sourcing opportunities via HKTDC Sourcing. Click2Match will remain available until 20 May.Photo download: https://bit.ly/4nokRfTThe sixth Asia Summit on Global Health was attended by some 3,000 participants from 43 countries and regions.Dr Alex Mihailidis, Associate Vice President, International Partnerships and Professor at the University of Toronto and Scientific Director at AGE WELL, attended and shared his insight.In the session Transforming Healthcare through Digital Health & AI Innovations, Natasha Chhatrapati, Senior Director, Business Transformation Lead for International at Pfizer Inc, engaged with fellow panellists to examine the practical implementation and the latest breakthroughs in AI within the healthcare sector.On the second day, the GoGlobal CONNECT series: Hong Kong as a Superconnector to Empower Global Expansion of Pharmaceutical Enterprises brought together experts in regulation, clinical trials, IP protection and distribution to share practical insights on international expansion.During the ASGH, over 400 business and investment matching meetings were arranged, attracting investment institutions and healthcare enterprises from Europe, Asia and the Guangdong‑Hong Kong‑Macao Greater Bay Area to explore opportunities in investment, technology deployment and market expansion.The ASGH also featured the ASGH Business Hub and the InnoHealth Showcase, bringing together around 180 healthcare innovation companies from 12 countries and regions to present cutting‑edge solutions across biotechnology, digital health and medical technologies.The ASGH also featured the “GoGlobal Connect” and the Business of Healthcare Advisory Zone, enabling healthcare enterprises to connect with service providers and receive practical support for developing “go global” strategies.HKTDC signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Hong Kong Singapore Business Association (HSBA), supporting Mainland enterprises to “go global” via Hong Kong and target the Singapore and ASEAN markets.The 17th Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair attracted buyers from 61 countries and regions, with some 13,000 buyers visiting the fair for sourcing and procurement.The Hong Kong MedTech Association led some 20 companies to exhibit at the fair, drawing strong buyer interest and encouraging in‑depth business discussions.The Canada Pavilion brought together a number of companies to promote their medical equipment, technology application solutions and related services, attracting buyers to explore opportunities and engage in business discussions.Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation led over 30 innovation and technology companies to exhibit at the Fair, showcasing the strength of Hong Kong’s local medical innovation and R&D capabilities.Industry experts at the themed session “ASEAN Gateway: Navigating Regulations, Capital and Distributions from Hong Kong” shared the latest market trends, fostering active exchanges among industry stakeholders.WebsitesInternational Healthcare Week: https://internationalhealthcareweek.hktdc.com/enAsia Summit On Global Health: https://www.asiasummitglobalhealth.com/conference/asgh/enHong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkmedicalfair/enList of Product: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkmedicalfair/en/product  Media enquiriesYuan Tung Financial Relations:Jasmine ZhangTel: (852) 3428 3278Email: jzhang@yuantung.com.hkLouise SongTel: (852) 3428 5691Email: lsong@yuantung.com.hkTiffany LeungTel: (852) 3428 2361Email: tleung@yuantung.com.hkHKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:Noah QiuTel: (852) 2584 4575Email: noah.yl.qiu@hktdc.orgNavin LawTel: (852) 2584 4525Email: navin.cm.law@hktdc.orgSerena CheungTel: (852) 2584 4137Email: jane.mh.cheung@hktdc.orgAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. The HKTDC is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.  Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Bragg boosts 711’s upcoming Kambi sportsbook launch

(AsiaGameHub) -   Belgian gaming brand 711 has extended its partnership with Bragg Gaming Group to further enhance its offerings ahead of launching its Kambi-powered sportsbook. Approved by Belgium’s Gambling Commission, 711 successfully secured an F+ license, enabling it to operate a sportsbook within the country using Kambi’s Turnkey Sportsbook technology stack. The collaboration with Bragg also provides 711 access to the B2B provider’s Player Account Management (PAM) solution, building on their prior partnership that began in December 2025 when 711 obtained its B+ online casino license. Leveraging both Kambi and Bragg technologies, the upgraded 711 platform is set to launch just in time for the 2026 World Cup, delivering a seamless experience that transitions smoothly from casino play to sports betting. Gilles De Backer, Chief Operating Officer at 711, stated: “Entering into this agreement to expand our presence in Belgium through the upcoming launch of 711sports.be marks a significant milestone for our brand. Having already achieved notable success with our casino services via Bragg’s platform, it was a logical next step to extend our partnership into the sportsbook sector. “Integrating Kambi’s top-tier sportsbook technology alongside Bragg’s Fuze tools ensures that 711 will effectively execute its core brand identity and strategic goals in the Belgian sports betting market—delivering an exceptional user experience, competitive odds, and robust player-focused features. The timing aligns perfectly with the anticipated surge in sportsbook activity during the World Cup.” Additionally, Bragg will implement its player engagement suite Fuze across 711’s operations in both the Netherlands and Belgium. In addition to a complete integration with Kambi’s sportsbook platform, Fuze will offer Belgian users exclusive functionalities such as real-time tournaments and daily activities designed to boost player retention and engagement. Matevž Mazij, Chief Executive Officer at Bragg Gaming Group, remarked: “We are delighted to have concluded this agreement, further solidifying our global partnership with 711. “By supporting 711’s entry into the Belgian sports betting market with our adaptable PAM infrastructure, Kambi’s industry-leading sportsbook solution, and our proprietary Fuze engagement tools, we are equipping them with a comprehensive and powerful platform to compete at the highest level. We eagerly anticipate going live in time for the excitement surrounding the World Cup.” 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.

Super Group undeterred by Nigeria’s tax turmoil, doubles down on efforts

(AsiaGameHub) -   The recent reforms in taxation and governance have not dampened Super Group’s enthusiasm for the Nigerian market. The group’s Chief Executive Officer, Neal Menashe, updated investors yesterday, highlighting that momentum is building in Africa as it continues to expand its footprint and maintain progress despite regulatory challenges. After recently visiting Nigeria, Menashe stated, ‘currency flows are improving in the country,’ which represents a significant boost for the operator’s position in the market. He stressed that the company aims to double or even triple its business size in Nigeria while ensuring its product strategy remains aligned with the market’s needs. Menashe’s sustained confidence in the Nigerian market reflects his belief in the government’s efforts to bring stability to the sector. Super Group’s resilience in the market may be enhanced by its broad presence across Africa, allowing it to absorb potential disruptions more easily and reducing its exposure to regulatory changes in any single region. The year 2026 began with confusion and debate in Nigeria, primarily centered on whether gambling wagers were exempt from value-added tax (VAT). Despite most operators not applying VAT to player stakes, an amendment to the Nigerian Tax Act 2025 designated “money, stakes, or securities” related to all gaming activities as VAT-exempt items. This change coincided with a new 11% tax burden imposed on operators in Nigeria, following a trend seen in other global markets. Super Group’s ability to manage such challenges is perhaps unsurprising, especially given the more severe tax increases faced by operators in the UK. What stands out about Super Group’s continued optimism toward Nigeria is its unwavering stance, even amid ongoing disputes over control of the country’s gambling industry. Last year, Nigeria’s National Assembly approved the Central Gaming Bill, which sought to place the sector under federal authority. However, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declined to sign the bill, indicating his view that transferring control from Nigeria’s 36 states to the federal government would violate the constitution. While there remains uncertainty regarding the future direction of the Nigerian market, Super Group has clearly maintained its confidence in the region and is pursuing substantial expansion across the area. 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.

PAGCOR pursues promotional equilibrium amid iGaming expansion

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has announced a comprehensive overhaul of its cashback regulations as part of new promotional guidelines aimed at ensuring fair competition across the country’s gaming sector. Effective immediately, operators are restricted from offering cashback on e-games exceeding 15% of a player’s net losses. For slots, e-bingo, numeric games, and sports betting, maximum cash rebates are capped at 1.5% of either the player’s turnover or deposit amount. Going forward, all cash rebates and cashback payouts must be classified as “expenses incurred during gaming operations,” rather than being recorded as direct losses. PAGCOR stated that these changes have been introduced to prevent what it describes as “destructive competition” and a potential “race to the bottom,” particularly as larger market players attempt to gain dominance by providing disproportionately generous promotional offers. iGaming growth contrasts with land-based decline This regulatory update follows a significant shift in the Philippine gaming landscape, where online gaming has begun to outpace traditional casino-based revenue. According to PAGCOR’s most recent financial disclosures, electronic gaming revenues surpassed those from licensed land-based casinos for the first time last year, highlighting divergent trends between the two sectors. Electronic gaming income increased by 30% year-on-year, reaching P201.12 billion (£2.48 billion), which accounted for 50.77% of the total P396.1 billion (£4.87 billion) in consolidated revenue. In contrast, revenue from licensed casinos fell by 9.58%, declining to P182.50 billion (£2.24 billion) from P201.84 billion (£2.48 billion) in 2024. Similarly, PAGCOR-operated venues saw their income drop by 21% year-on-year to P12.52 billion (£154 million). Reflecting this downturn, several major casino operators in the Philippines have turned their attention to iGaming as a strategic growth avenue. Among them is Okada Manila. Tiger Resort, Leisure and Entertainment, the owner of Okada Manila, confirmed today (13 May) that its online platform, OKADA PLAY, has now officially launched. The move is intended to help the company tap into new revenue streams amid weakening performance linked to the broader contraction in the physical casino industry. Nobuki Sato, President and Chief Operating Officer of Okada Manila, remarked: “This launch represents a pivotal milestone in our digital transformation, allowing us to extend our gaming experience to a wider audience throughout the Philippines via OKADA PLAY.” Regulatory oversight continues to tighten PAGCOR’s latest directive reflects an ongoing trend of stricter regulation within the Philippine gaming market. Earlier this month, the national government issued updated operational protocols to support the enforcement of the 2024 ban on offshore gaming operators (POGOs). The new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) integrate the two primary orders governing the POGO ban with 15 additional laws and department directives into a unified implementation plan. Despite nearly two years having passed since the Philippines implemented the POGO ban, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto warned that such operations remain “a persistent and adaptive threat, always capable of resurfacing if vigilance wanes.” “These SOPs represent a shift in strategy—from simply closing down hubs to systematically dismantling criminal networks, seizing illicit assets, securing convictions, protecting affected individuals, and severing the financial and corporate ties that sustain these enterprises,” he added. Enforcement efforts against POGOs will now be coordinated primarily by the Presidential Anti-Organised Crime Commission (PAOCC), with collaborative support from the Department of Justice, the Anti-Money Laundering Council, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development. 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.

特朗普在是否恢复对伊朗打击问题上面临美国退役指挥官的分歧

(SeaPRwire) -   美国总统唐纳德·特朗普表示,与伊朗达成的停火协议“处于极度危急状态”,而美国退役高级指挥官和国家安全专家在华盛顿是否应恢复对德黑兰的军事行动的问题上日益产生分歧。批评人士警告称,若重启军事行动,可能导致美国再次陷入一场旷日持久的地区冲突。特朗普周一告诉记者:“我可以说,目前的停火协议正处于极度危急状态……当医生走进来说‘先生,您所爱之人仅有约1%的生存机会’时,情况就是如此。”特朗普还驳斥了伊朗对一项拟议协议的最新回应,称其“一文不值”。与此同时,有报道披露白宫正在权衡,若谈判失败,将采取何种军事选项。特朗普前国家安全顾问、退役少将小H.R.麦克马斯特表示,他认为伊朗领导层不太可能做出特朗普认为达成协议的最低限度让步。麦克马斯特在接受《数字》杂志采访时表示:“我认为伊朗领导层和伊斯兰革命卫队不愿做出总统特朗普认为至少需要的让步。”他指的是伊朗强硬派组织伊斯兰革命卫队。他补充道:“总统特朗普总是希望达成协议。但他不会接受一个糟糕的协议。”如今这场辩论的核心在于华盛顿面临的关键问题:是进一步施压迫使伊朗放弃其核计划和导弹野心,还是重新发动打击只会加深地区冲突而无法取得决定性成果?前美国中央司令部(CENTCOM)副司令、退役海军中将马克·福克斯表示,他认为当前的停火和外交渠道不太可能迫使伊朗让步。福克斯在接受《数字》杂志采访时表示:“我真的无法设想除了全面恢复作战行动之外的任何其他方式……我认为他们最终唯一会回应的,就是武力。”福克斯辩称,尽管伊朗持续威胁航行通过霍尔木兹海峡的船只,但美军仍具备在该水域重新开放并确保商船安全通行的能力。他表示:“这是一个可通过军事手段实现的目标。”他提出了一项战略构想,包括使用驱逐舰、攻击直升机、无人机以及扩大空中监视范围,以在霍尔木兹海峡建立一个受保护的海上通道。福克斯承认,美国海军规模已不及20世纪80年代油轮战争期间的情况,但他坚称,只要华盛顿投入足够多的海军资产并开展持续的监控行动,美军仍有能力控制这一咽喉要道。他说:“这并不容易。但地理格局是固定的。”他描述了一种可能的战略:依靠驱逐舰、无人机和攻击机机群为霍尔木兹海峡建立所谓的“永不闭眼之眼”,使美军能够及时发现并消除伊朗快艇、无人机和反舰威胁,防止其袭击商船。福克斯还警告不要允许伊朗在继续推进其导弹和核计划的同时,仍保留对霍尔木兹海峡的控制权。他说:“如果现在不采取行动,还要等到何时?如果他们拥有核武器,就会动用它。”福克斯也参与了犹太国家安全研究所近期发布的一份政策文件的撰写。该文件由包括前欧洲司令部副司令查克·瓦尔德上将和前中央司令部副司令罗伯特·哈沃德海军中将在内的多位退役高级军官和国安专家表示,当前的停火和外交进程“无法可靠地迫使伊朗”满足美方要求,并警告德黑兰正试图“拖延谈判、削弱美国决心、利用时间增强自身实力”。报告呼吁扩大针对伊朗海上能力、导弹基础设施及其内部强制机制的军事行动,同时避免对民用设施进行大规模打击,以免引发更广泛的地区升级。但并非所有人都认为重新采取军事行动会带来更好结果。长期批评美国扩大军事干预的前中校丹尼尔·戴维斯是国防优先研究所的高级研究员。他警告称,那些呼吁“完成使命”的声音忽视了近期战斗中暴露的现实。戴维斯在接受《数字》杂志采访时表示:“‘完成使命’的说法毫无道理,不合逻辑,且违背任何军事原则。”他指出,尽管美军发动了数千次打击、进行了数周的激战,伊朗仍保有大量导弹和海上作战能力。他说:“我们曾对14,000个目标发动攻击,却无法将其摧毁。为什么有人认为下次再回去就能得到不同结果?”他将伊朗的地理环境、分散的导弹设施和不对称的海上战术描述为构成所谓“军事上无法解决的问题”。他表示:“剩下的只有外交途径。”随着官员们评估谈判失败后下一步走向,这种分歧反映出华盛顿日益加剧的分歧。支持重启军事行动的人认为,伊朗几十年来最为虚弱,此时停止行动将使其得以重整旗鼓、重建导弹库、保持对全球最重要能源咽喉要道的控制力。反对者则反驳说,即使美国和以色列的大规模打击也未能从根本上动摇政权控制或彻底清除其军事能力,进一步扩大升级的风险可能将美国拖入另一场结果不确定的长期地区冲突。本文由第三方内容提供商提供。SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/)对此不作任何保证或陈述。 分类: 头条新闻,日常新闻 SeaPRwire为公司和机构提供全球新闻稿发布,覆盖超过6,500个媒体库、86,000名编辑和记者,以及350万以上终端桌面和手机App。SeaPRwire支持英、日、德、韩、法、俄、印尼、马来、越南、中文等多种语言新闻稿发布。

Catena Media reports tripled Q1 earnings, driven by 100% North America reset

(AsiaGameHub) -   Catena Media Plc states that it has returned its business profile back to growth and earnings, benefitting from the simplification of its media unit in 2025. Publishing its Q1 accounts, Catena sees corporate revenues stand at €12.3m, up 26% on 2025 comparatives result of €9.8m. A breakdown of income sees North American business generate 95% of revenue at €11.7m, as Catena optimise a smaller network of LegalSportsReport.com, PlayUSA, Bonus.com, LineUps.com and GamingToday.com. As of FY2026 trading Catena asserts the “closure and liquidation of all non-core markets, with no impact on its business”. Focused uniquely on US growth opportunities, Catena sees its Q1 adjusted EBITDA triple to €2.7m. Earnings are boosted by stream-line efficiencies that see Catena’s EBITDA margins return to a 22% basis. Manu Stan: Catena Media CEO Manuel Stan framed Q1 as evidence that Catena’s strategic reset in 2024 and 2025 had finally stabilised the media group on a leaner but higher-margin North American core. “Viewed in the context of where the business stood 18 months ago, the trajectory is clear: we have returned to growth, diversified our revenue sources, and moved from single-digit EBITDA margins to consistently exceeding 20 percent,” Stan stated. The recovery is being led by a sharp rebound in Catena’s casino vertical, which remains the group’s dominant earnings engine. Casino revenues climbed 43% year-on-year to €10.9m, accounting for 88% of total group revenues, while casino new depositing customers surged 98% to 28,256. Stan underlined that casino would remain the company’s core priority despite ongoing SEO volatility caused by Google’s December 2025 algorithm update. “Casino remains our most important vertical and the area of greatest long-term potential,” the CEO noted. Catena believes that recent Google ranking disruptions have temporarily distorted search positioning across gambling affiliation, with Stan arguing that lower quality products had been artificially elevated in rankings. “It is worth noting that the algorithm changes have temporarily elevated some low-relevance products that provide low user value. We expect Google’s continued quality-focused refinements to correct this over time.” Alongside traditional casino affiliation, Catena continues to diversify revenues through CRM products, sweepstakes casino exposure and subaffiliation services operated through its MRKTPLAYS network.  As underscored by management: “The launch of the PlayPerks loyalty product on PlayUSA.com forms part of a wider strategy to deepen first-party user engagement and reduce dependency on pure search traffic economics.” While sports revenues declined 34% to €1.5m, Catena believes that the future upside of its sports network now lies in US prediction markets rather than conventional sportsbook affiliation. Stan described the emerging vertical as “arguably the most significant growth opportunity in the sports space”, confirming that Catena has already secured agreements with leading prediction market operators and is actively building content pipelines around the sector. “We have agreements in place with the leading operators and are actively building relevant content for users,” Stan added. Management believes prediction markets carry a structural advantage as products remain broadly accessible nationwide, unlike sportsbook betting which continues to be restricted by state-by-state regulation. Q1 trading also underlined improved financial order across the business. Personnel expenses fell 23% year-on-year as Catena reduced headcount from 213 to 160 employees, continuing its transition towards a flatter operating structure. The group continues to utilise its hybrid capital structure to preserve liquidity and create headroom for future technology and product investments. Catena again confirmed that interest payments on its €43.7m hybrid securities will remain deferred while management prioritises balance sheet flexibility and cash generation. Operating cash flow improved to €4.4m, while cash and equivalents increased to €13.7m by period end. Further simplification measures are ongoing, with Stan confirming that Catena’s corporate structure will soon shrink from “13 legal entities in 2020 to just five entities located across Malta and the United States.” Closing the update, Stan maintained that Catena’s North American reset had now established a stronger long-term operating platform for the media group. “For Q2 and the remainder of 2026, we remain optimistic that the business is heading in the right direction.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

Event Report: TBS Group’s Akanetsu Holds Commissioning Ceremony for Hydrogen Heat Source Facility

TOKYO, May 13, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Akasaka Heating & Cooling Supply Co., Ltd ("Akanetsu", a TBS Group company) held a Group "Hydrogen Heat Source Facility Commissioning Ceremony" on Tuesday, May 12, 2026.The company supplies heating, cooling, and electricity to various buildings in the Akasaka 5-chome district of Minato-ku, Tokyo. In renewing its heat source facilities, the company has introduced hydrogen utilization equipment designed with safety in mind, while considering the potential of green hydrogen as a next-generation energy source. Full-scale operations commenced in May 2026. This facility marks the first instance in Tokyo where a private heat supply operator, for commercial purposes, accepts and stores green hydrogen, utilizing it for power generation via fuel cells and for heat supply via hydrogen-co-fired boilers.First, Ryujiro Abe, President & Chief Executive Officer of TBS Holdings, stated: "The full-scale operation of this green hydrogen facility represents a major step towards the decarbonization of urban infrastructure, and demonstrates the potential of a new social infrastructure from Akasaka. Moving forward, we will continue to accumulate knowledge while ensuring safety and a stable supply, and we will continue to communicate our efforts to society through our GX initiatives. I would like to express my sincere gratitude once again for everyone's support."Following this, Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo, stated: “Hydrogen is one way to address both stable energy supply and decarbonization. Precisely because the supply of fossil fuels is unstable today, hydrogen is attracting more attention than ever as a game changer that can turn a challenge into an opportunity. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is advancing a range of initiatives toward realizing a hydrogen society under three key concepts: ‘produce,’ ‘transport’ and ‘use.’ This hydrogen heat source facility is the first initiative to make full-scale use of green hydrogen in the very heart of Tokyo, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has supported its introduction. The facility is also expected to use green hydrogen procured through market-based trial transactions conducted by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. I believe this is an extremely important initiative for expanding demand for green hydrogen in Tokyo. Taking today as a starting point, let us work together to further accelerate our progress toward realizing a clean and safe hydrogen society.”During the ceremony, guests were shown the ‘hydrogen storage alloy’ contained within the plant's hydrogen tanks, enabling the safe storage of hydrogen at low pressure.Subsequently, a live broadcast link was established with the hydrogen plant in Akasaka 5-chome, where the safety-focused hydrogen utilization facilities generate electricity and steam (thermal energy) from green hydrogen. The pure hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity directly from hydrogen and emit no CO₂ during power generation. The electricity generated is used for lighting and power systems within the plant facility, and in the event of an emergency, they can operate autonomously to secure power for essential power needs within the plant.The hydrogen released from the hydrogen tanks then passes through piping within the facility to hydrogen-co-fired once-through boilers, where it is used in combination with city gas to produce steam (thermal energy). At the maximum hydrogen cofiring ratio of 50% by volume, each boiler is expected to reduce CO₂ emissions by approximately 21% compared with operation using city gas alone. The reduction effect may vary depending on operating conditions. (*The reduction effect varies depending on operating conditions.) The green hydrogen used in the facility is transported regularly from Yamanashi Prefecture. The introduction of the facility has received a grant from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.Morimasa Takagi, Representative Director and President of Akanetsu, reflected on the start of full-scale operations, stating: "I am deeply moved to have reached this milestone. This initiative began several years ago, and we have faced many challenges along the way." He went on to share his passion for further hydrogen utilization in the years ahead. "This year, Akanetsu joined the Council for Study of Hydrogen Supply Systems and Pipelines in Tokyo. It’s a great dream and source of daily inspiration that we’ll see hydrogen pipelines running through the streets of Akasaka, with TBS's GX efforts evolving even further."ReferenceMar 27, 2025 Press release: Akanetsu Installs Heat Source Facilities Utilizing Green Hydrogen, First Such Initiative by a District Heating and Cooling Company in Central Tokyohttps://www.acnnewswire.com/press-release/All/97425/Akanetsu-Installs-Heat-Source- Akasaka Heating & Cooling Supply Co., LtdAkasaka Heating & Cooling Supply Co., Ltd ("Akanetsu") provides a stable supply of energy produced by two underground plants in the form of chilled water, steam, and electricity to the TBS Broadcasting Center and other buildings in the Akasaka 5-chome area of Minato-ku, Tokyo. Akanetsu has a business continuity plan (BCP) in place to ensure that its operations and business activities and the daily functions of the district can continue uninterrupted in the event of a major disaster. Akanetsu is committed to supporting local lifestyles and contributing to society by introducing safe and secure facilities utilizing hydrogen to realize the future of green hydrogen as a next-generation energy source and a decarbonized society. https://www.akanetsu.co.jp/Media Inquiries Regarding This ReleaseAkasaka Heating & Cooling Supply Co., Ltd:info@akanetsu.co.jp Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com