分類: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) -   MGM Resorts leveraged robust performance in Macau and its digital division to achieve a marginal rise in group revenue for the first quarter, released Wednesday. While regional operations remained stable, Las Vegas posted its first year-over-year revenue gain since 2024. The company reported net revenue of $4.5 billion in Q1, a 4% increase year-over-year. However, consolidated adjusted EBITDAR dropped 9% to $580 million, and net income fell 16% to $125 million. Every segment—Las Vegas, regional, China, and digital—saw YoY revenue growth. Conversely, adjusted EBITDAR declined across the board except for digital, which narrowed its loss from $34 million a year ago to $26 million this quarter. Las Vegas generated $2.2 billion in Q1 revenue, a slight $4 million increase YoY, though segment adjusted EBITDAR decreased 8% to $749 million. Hotel revenue was virtually flat at $751 million, while gaming metrics like casino revenue (-5%), table games win (-1%), and slot win (-1%) dipped slightly. Similar to Caesars' presentation the previous day, MGM CEO Bill Hornbuckle and executives addressed multiple inquiries regarding Las Vegas, particularly concerning lower-end gaming activity affected by lingering tourism slowdowns. "The market has evolved, and the consumer has changed. Fortunately, we possess a substantial amount of luxury inventory and brands capable of catering to this shift, and this trend will persist," Hornbuckle told analysts. "Despite numerous headwinds, we have not yet observed a slowdown. That does not preclude the possibility of a slowdown over the summer, as booking cycles remain short." Analyst Jordan Bender of Citizens noted in a research note that conditions in Las Vegas appear to be moderately improving. Nevertheless, Citizens' models forecast a 2% decline for MGM's Las Vegas segment in 2026. New deals, new NBA team? In recent weeks, several operators, including MGM and Caesars, have started promoting all-inclusive packages to attract budget-conscious and first-time visitors. MGM's offer features two-night stays at either the Luxor or Excalibur, which drew significant attention from analysts on Tuesday. "We have been very pleased with the response to the all-inclusive package; we have observed consistent momentum since its launch, and customer feedback has been positive," stated MGM COO Ayesha Molino. She added that a "significant portion" of this interest stems from new clients. Hornbuckle was questioned about MGM's position regarding a potential NBA franchise in Las Vegas, given the company's stake in T-Mobile Arena, the city's sole venue capable of hosting NBA games. The league's board of governors unanimously voted last month to investigate Las Vegas as a relocation site, a possibility long rumored. Although the prospective team owner might prefer constructing a custom arena, T-Mobile is becoming an increasingly probable interim solution. The NBA has expressed a desire for expansion teams to commence play as early as 2028, which is too early for a new venue. Hornbuckle, who joked he was "already under three NDAs," suggested that developments are moving in that direction. "T-Mobile is part of the discussion, whether short-term or long-term, all paths currently lead to it... so we are deeply involved in those conversations," he remarked. MGM has been "asked how to position T-Mobile for any and all bidders" and has received "extensive interest," Hornbuckle noted. Strength in Macau MGM China experienced a 9% revenue increase to $1.1 billion in Q1, while adjusted EBITDAR dipped 4% to $273 million. The quarter encompassed the Chinese New Year holiday, which drove strong visitor numbers and a surge in overall betting handle. For MGM, Macau table games win surpassed $1 billion in Q1, an 18% rise compared to the previous year. "It is always difficult to label Macau as 'stable,' but I feel optimistic; I feel very good about our market position, our strategy, and our execution," Hornbuckle stated, acknowledging the company is still "under-equipped" in the market and plans to expand. MGM Osaka, the sole integrated resort licensed in Japan, is progressing "on schedule and within budget for a 2030 opening," Hornbuckle announced. Japan has recently initiated the process for potentially issuing additional casino licenses, but the company remains confident that its first-mover advantage will remain substantial even if competitors are awarded licenses. Trimming digital losses Digital revenue, derived from MGM subsidiary LeoVegas rather than BetMGM, climbed 43% YoY to $183 million. The segment also reduced its EBITDAR loss by approximately $8 million for the quarter. While MGM has faced scrutiny regarding its long-term vision for the BetMGM joint venture with Entain, there are signs that its own digital footprint is expanding as it moves toward profitability. "We have previously indicated that we expect the digital segment's loss to be halved this year relative to last year. We might see slightly more investment this year due to regulatory and tax changes in Brazil, but we are definitely anticipating the loss to narrow materially... which would set us up for a near break-even year in 2027, or potentially reaching it entirely," said Gary Fritz, MGM chief commercial officer and president of digital. From a balance sheet perspective, MGM reported total liabilities of approximately $38 billion, a figure that remained virtually unchanged from the previous year's quarter. The company repurchased $90 million worth of shares in Q1, with the stock closing Wednesday down 1% at $39.27. Although MGM is up roughly 24% over the last 12 months, the stock remains well below its 2023 highs of around $50 per share. Jess MarquezJess has covered the global gaming industry since 2022. A native of Reno, Nevada, he’d like to note that it’s Ne-va-da, not Ne-VAH-da. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   During Evoke’s delayed FY2025 earnings call on Thursday, CEO Per Widerström reassured investors and analysts that the management team remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing shareholder value, a focus he maintained has been consistent over the past few years. The CEO's remarks followed an observation from an analyst who noted that the company has faced persistent share price declines and rising debt levels since Widerström took the lead. “As a shareholder myself, I can guarantee that our primary focus is on delivering value to our investors,” Widerström stated during the session. “After a period of declining revenue and profits, we have returned to a growth trajectory. We have notably boosted our EBITDA margin and are currently reducing our leverage. These are the factors within our control, and they are where we are directing our efforts.” Regarding the financial figures, group revenue for the period rose by 2% year-on-year to £1.78 billion, while EBITDA, as highlighted by Widerström, increased by 43% to reach £301 million. Nevertheless, the company faced significant losses during this timeframe, with profit after tax dropping by 149% to a loss of £541 million. In a briefing published today, Regulus Partners suggested that the group's revenue growth essentially represents a decline in real terms, given that inflation is outpacing these gains in all primary markets. The analysis pointed to a 3% revenue dip in the UK and Ireland, fueled by a 12% slump in betting revenue despite steady wagering volumes, alongside a 2% increase in gaming. UK RGD tax increase yet to show impact Providing an update on performance since the Remote Gaming Duty hike took effect in April, CFO Sean Wilkins informed analysts that the group has not yet experienced any negative impact from the tax rise. He expressed confidence in the UK online division's performance and stated he does not expect the revenue composition to shift as a result of the higher taxes. Similar to competitors like Bally’s and Entain, Evoke anticipates gaining market share in the UK as smaller firms struggle under the weight of the tax increases. “We foresee market consolidation and believe a significant number of smaller operators will be hit particularly hard by the new tax, which should allow us to expand our market share.” Meanwhile, international revenue grew by 9%, supported by record-breaking results in Italy and Denmark. Widerström noted that the company is successfully capturing market share in both of these regions. In the UK retail sector, Widerström confirmed the closure of several betting shops. This segment saw a 1% decline over the 12-month period. “We maintain a strong network of over 1,000 shops that continue to provide top-tier service and entertainment to our clientele,” the CEO remarked. By streamlining the retail estate, he argued that the group has ensured long-term sustainability regarding profitability and cash flow generation. He also addressed the broader macroeconomic factors influencing retail betting and mentioned that the company had performed an extensive review of its physical locations. Rising debt and cash flow affected by non-recurring regulatory costs Regarding debt and cash flow—key areas of interest for stakeholders—net cash at the end of 2025 stood at negative £34 million, down from a positive inflow of £9 million in 2024. Net debt saw a slight increase to £1.86 billion, compared to £1.79 billion the previous year. Commenting on these figures, Wilkins said: “I must admit some disappointment with our cash flow results this year, though a significant portion of this is related to timing.” The company's finances were affected by a reclassification of historical gaming taxes in Austria, resulting in a one-time cost of £8 million in 2025. Furthermore, the firm paid a one-off licensing fee in Italy following updates to the country's regulatory framework. During the call, Widerström declined to answer questions concerning the group's ongoing strategic review, which has sparked discussions with Bally’s Intralot regarding a potential £225 million acquisition of Evoke. Those negotiations are expected to conclude in May. In a Bally’s Intralot earnings call last week, CEO Robeson Reeves spoke positively about Evoke’s international and UK online operations as significant opportunities for the lottery organization. “We see a strong opportunity to apply our business model to a much larger operation and the potential to significantly improve its financial results through synergies that we are uniquely equipped to provide,” Reeves stated. Nicole MacedoNicole started her career in local newsrooms in Gibraltar and was instrumental in launching the peninsula's first digital-only news broadcaster. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Leading casino and hospitality firm MGM Resorts International has released its financial report for the first quarter of 2026, noting steady revenues even as adjusted EBITDA saw a minor decline. Company Sees Net Revenue Gains Amid EBITDA Challenges According to the report, the company recorded consolidated net revenues of $4.5 billion, a 4% increase year-over-year. Net income attributable to MGM Resorts stood at $125 million, down from $149 million in the prior year period. The company’s adjusted EBITDA reached $580 million, a drop from Q1 2025’s $637 million. Meanwhile, diluted earnings per share fell slightly to $0.48, while adjusted diluted earnings per share came in at $0.49—compared to $0.69 in the year-ago quarter. MGM Resorts’ Las Vegas Strip Resorts segment reported net revenues of $2.2 billion for Q1 2025, marking a small uptick. However, the segment’s adjusted EBITDAR decreased by 8% to $749 million. Conversely, the Regional Operations segment generated net revenues of $918 million, a 2% year-over-year rise. The segment’s adjusted EBITDAR was $259 million, down 7% from the previous year. MGM China’s results followed a similar pattern: net revenues increased by 9% to $1.1 billion, while segment adjusted EBITDAR fell 4% to $273 million. MGM noted that intercompany branding license fee expenses rose by $23 million. Finally, MGM Digital posted net revenues of $183 million, a 43% year-on-year jump. The segment’s adjusted EBITDAR loss narrowed to $26 million (from $34 million in Q1 2025). MGM Remains Positive About the Remainder of 2026 Bill Hornbuckle, president and CEO of MGM Resorts International, expressed satisfaction with the stable results and praised the top-line growth in Las Vegas—growth that followed a period of mixed outcomes. Hornbuckle was particularly enthusiastic about the rest of the year, expecting further improvements in the company’s performance. Looking into the second quarter and beyond, we are seeing signs of strength driven by solid convention bookings, our newly launched all-inclusive promotion, and our recently refreshed rooms at the MGM Grand Las Vegas. Bill Hornbuckle, CEO & president, MGM Resorts International Jonathan Halkyard, MGM Resorts International’s chief financial officer, also highlighted the recent sale of MGM Northfield Park’s operations for $546 million as a major achievement. He stated that the sale provided his team with funding to reinvest in priority areas. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Swedish Gambling Authority (Spelinspektionen) has rolled out new regulations that raise the technical requirements for licensed gambling operators active in Sweden. These updated rules clarify and standardise the technical processes operators must follow to connect to Spelpaus, Sweden’s national self-exclusion scheme. Finalised on 23 April and made public on 29 April, the revised rules will come into force on 1 August 2026. What do the new rules include? Every licence holder will be issued a unique Actor ID and API Key. These credentials are mandatory for all queries made to the self-exclusion register. What is more, these checks must be completed before any direct marketing communications are sent to users. Verification is required during new player account registration, and operators must also check a user’s self-exclusion status whenever a player attempts to log into their account. All marketing-related checks must be processed via a dedicated marketing API, while checks carried out as part of player registration and login workflows must use a separate, distinct login API. A self-exclusion check is only considered complete once it provides a definitive confirmation of whether a given individual is registered as self-excluded. Spelpaus, Sweden’s national self-exclusion register, was introduced in the wake of the country’s 2019 gambling regulatory reform. It mandates all licensed operators to block access to their services for people who have chosen to self-exclude. Under Swedish law, all operators holding a local licence are required to integrate the register into their service offerings. Players can opt to self-exclude for a number of pre-set time periods. These options include one, three and six-month breaks, while users can also choose to block their access for 12 months or longer if they prefer. The register was updated in 2023 to make guidance and information related to problem gambling more easily accessible. The 2023 update also added a feature that allows players to extend their existing self-exclusion period. Licence holders retain full responsibility for compliance The regulations explicitly state that full responsibility remains with the licence holder, even if technical check processes are delegated to third-party service providers. Licence holders must ensure their assigned Actor ID and API Key are used for all checks, stressing that outsourcing work does not absolve operators of their compliance obligations. While the regulations lay out the overarching technical framework, they do not yet include detailed API specifications, response formats, or service performance standards – all information that is critical for operators to plan their integration work. Spelpaus came under public scrutiny just last year, after a documentary series alleged that the register had suffered a data breach. The regulator moved quickly to reject these claims, and emphasised that all information stored on the register is fully encrypted. “The register holds no information indicating whether a person who has self-excluded has a gambling addiction or not,” a spokesperson for the authority noted at the time. Kathryn EvansKathryn reports on short-form breaking news, with a core focus on legislative developments across the EMEA region and the US. A proud North Walian, she is a fluent Welsh speaker and lifelong Wrexham FC fan – supporting the club long before its Hollywood ownership took over. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   A Malaysian High Court has denied a Singaporean casino operator's bid to collect a multi-million dollar gambling debt, highlighting the nation's firm legal stance against enforcing such claims. Judge Rules Gambling Debt Unenforceable in Malaysia In Ipoh, the court rejected a bankruptcy petition initiated by Resorts World at Sentosa Pte Ltd against a local restaurant owner concerning an alleged debt of approximately RM26 million ($6.6 million). This claim stemmed from credit provided for gambling activities at the Singaporean casino, as reported by Free Malaysia Today. Delivering the ruling, the presiding judge determined that the nature of the debt rendered it unenforceable under Malaysian law. Obligations originating from gambling are considered invalid in the country, meaning they cannot serve as grounds for legal action, including bankruptcy proceedings. The judge stressed that these liabilities are not recognized as legally binding debts but are classified as informal commitments. The case involved a prior judgment obtained in Singapore in 2018, which had subsequently been registered in Malaysia. The casino operator contended that this foreign judgment entitled them to pursue recovery through Malaysian courts. However, the court was unconvinced, stating clearly that foreign decisions are not automatically enforceable when they contradict domestic legal principles. The judgment stipulated that Malaysian courts should prioritize national law and public policy over foreign judgments. The judge pointed out that local statutes explicitly render gambling-related agreements void. Consequently, even a valid judgment from another jurisdiction cannot override these provisions. Ruling Highlights Limits to Foreign Legal Judgments The restaurant owner contested the claim, asserting that the debt was fundamentally a gambling debt, despite being presented as a credit facility. He argued that this classification rendered it legally invalid in Malaysia. The court found this argument persuasive and concluded that the underlying transaction did not create any enforceable rights. The decision also referenced a previous ruling by the Federal Court that affirmed the country's position on gambling debts. This precedent established that such obligations are not legally enforceable, thereby reinforcing the principle that courts cannot compel their repayment. The petition was dismissed, though the court declined to award costs against the casino operator. This outcome underscores the ongoing challenges in cross-border financial disputes involving gambling. While casinos may extend credit and obtain judgments in jurisdictions where gambling is legal, enforcing those judgments in countries with more stringent laws can prove difficult. The case serves as a reminder to international operators that legal victories obtained elsewhere may have limited applicability. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   While SlotCatalog is frequently linked to content visibility and affiliate distribution, this represents only part of its operational scope. The firm has unveiled three key projects that broaden its engagement with game studios, operators, and other industry collaborators. These updates include the introduction of a premium data subscription service, a new affiliate platform set to go live in 2026, and a widened CrossyRun licensing schedule featuring three more game launches planned within the next two months via various providers. Data subscription service SlotCatalog has launched a subscription service centered on its market visibility intelligence. This product is crafted to deliver structured, comparable metrics drawn from online casino lobby exposure and player discovery signals. It aids internal processes like launch strategy, distribution prioritization, and portfolio evaluation. The service leverages SlotCatalog’s ranking systems, such as SlotRank and Provider Rank, which aim to convert visibility trends into analyzable signals across different markets and timeframes. The company’s data is updated daily, sourced from monitoring game exposure on over 2,000 casino websites in more than 50 markets. This subscription is tailored for partners needing regular access to visibility metrics to inform product development, business intelligence, and commercial strategy. Affiliate platform launch in 2026 SlotCatalog has also provided details on an affiliate platform scheduled for a 2026 launch. This platform is described as an extension of the company's discovery and player acquisition framework, with a strong focus on transparency regarding traffic generation and partner value measurement. The proposed model concentrates on intent-driven discovery pathways constructed around organic search behavior, review content, and comparison-based decision-making. According to SlotCatalog, the goal is to connect acquisition efforts with tangible commercial results and visibility metrics, moving beyond dependence on standalone figures. The announcement of the affiliate platform is framed as a component of a larger initiative to standardize partner reporting, attribution analysis, and sustained commercial partnership. CrossyRun roadmap Furthermore, SlotCatalog has detailed an extended plan for CrossyRun, its licensed proprietary "step crash" game mechanic. This mechanism operates on incremental progression, where each step raises the potential win multiplier while also increasing the chance of the round concluding. Building on previous launches, SlotCatalog verified that three more games utilizing the CrossyRun system are scheduled for release in the coming two months, each developed in partnership with different providers. These forthcoming titles are meant to illustrate how the core progression model can be adapted to various themes and volatility settings. SlotCatalog presents its licensing strategy as a method for studios to employ a proven progression structure while maintaining creative control over visual presentation and mathematical models. The initial application of the CrossyRun framework was a joint effort with Evoplay, resulting in the game Uncrossable Rush. This title acted as the first live implementation of the mechanic and influenced the choice to pursue further studio collaborations for the roadmap. “SlotCatalog has an incredibly strong team – professional, proactive – one of the best in the market. The level of expertise, attention to detail, and the way they approach partnerships stands out,” said Diana Larina, Head of Marketing at Evoplay. “Our joint release of Uncrossable Rush is a perfect example. SlotCatalog didn’t just support the launch – their analytical insights actually helped shape the concept itself. And then the team amplified it with well-thought-through promotional activations that made a real difference. This kind of collaboration sets a new benchmark for how providers and affiliate platforms can work side by side.” About SlotCatalog SlotCatalog ranks among the globe's most extensive and detailed data-driven slot ecosystems. The company assists studios, operators, affiliates, and media platforms in improving decision-making by transforming actual traffic, player intent, and casino exposure into practical insights. Its ecosystem encompasses affiliate traffic, market intelligence tools, visibility and distribution services, and proprietary game mechanics. For more information, users can contact SlotCatalog. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Isle of Man has finalised a comprehensive update to its gambling laws after the Gambling Legislation (Amendment) Bill received its final approval in the Tynwald parliament. This revision brings the legal structure overseeing the island's gambling industry up to date. On Wednesday, the House of Keys gave its approval to amendments put forward by the Legislative Council, marking the end of the parliamentary process for the Bill. The new law aims to strengthen the statutory rules that control employment and commercial operations in the Isle of Man's gambling sector. Key changes involve creating a new fitness and propriety standard for people working in gambling businesses, as well as setting up a civil penalty system for regulatory violations. The civil penalty framework, initially drafted in late March, is designed to give the regulator the power to impose fines on individuals. This will apply when breaches happen with their consent, connivance, or due to their negligence. The fitness and propriety standard will introduce competency and financial evaluations for operators meeting suitability criteria. This will supplement the existing assessment based on character. The Gambling Supervision Commission has launched two public consultations, which are open until Monday, 25 May 2026. These will gather input from the industry on detailed guidance for applying the new fitness and propriety standards and the civil penalty system. This consultation process follows a period of extensive engagement with stakeholders that took place during 2024. A significant bill Treasury Minister Chris Thomas, who steered the bill through the House of Keys for the Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC), highlighted the cooperative nature of the reforms. “I’d like to thank many in e-gaming who continue to provide insight into the implementation and impact of these changes, as well as GSC and treasury officers for developing the bill which is significant for this important sector,” the Minister stated. He also acknowledged important amendments proposed by Members Ms Lord‑Brennan MHK, Mr Clueit MLC, and Mrs August‑Phillips MLC, which were made in direct response to feedback from the industry during the bill's progression. The regulatory tightening comes as the GSC pointed out that the Isle of Man's money laundering risk is currently rated as "medium high". Pending Royal Assent, which is expected before Tynwald's July session, the new legal measures are scheduled to take effect in the summer. Kathryn EvansKathryn covers bitesize breaking news with a primary focus on EMEA and US legislation. A proud North Walian, fluent Welsh speaker and lifelong Wrexham FC fan – long before Hollywood came calling. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   A civil action initiated in Nevada state court claims that two Las Vegas gaming establishments failed to stop a long-running sex trafficking operation involving the convicted felon Nathan Chasing Horse. The lawsuit names Station Casinos’ Santa Fe Station and Boyd Gaming’s Cannery Casino, asserting that both venues allowed Chasing Horse to utilize hotel suites for trafficking purposes for nearly ten years.  Eyes Wide Shut The two plaintiffs, identified as M.L. and C.L. in legal documents, assert they were victimized between 2014 and 2022. The filing of their lawsuit on April 27, 2026, occurred the same day that former actor Chasing Horse was sentenced to life imprisonment following his conviction on sexual abuse and trafficking charges.  The legal complaint states that the man, known for his role in "Dances With Wolves," would often reserve multiple rooms at the two properties and receive free stays while using the premises for habitual abuse.  The plaintiffs claim that casino staff noticed several red flags, such as visible trauma, exhaustion, restricted movement, and constant supervision by Chasing Horse. The suit also alleges that employees saw the women being strictly controlled on the casino floors and prevented from speaking freely with staff. In certain instances, it is claimed that employees even tipped off Chasing Horse regarding the presence of police at the hotel. The lawsuit contends that the high volume of activity near the hotel rooms should have been enough to spark concern, yet neither establishment reported the suspicious behavior or moved to protect those being harmed.  It further charges the casinos with failing to establish sufficient anti-trafficking training or enforcement measures. “The Circle” Chasing Horse, characterized in court papers as a self-proclaimed spiritual guide, allegedly employed isolation, manipulation, and violence to manage victims within a group he referred to as “The Circle.” During the criminal trial, prosecutors stated that he victimized vulnerable Indigenous women and girls, utilizing psychological control and coercion. The civil suit also claims that victims were led to believe the abuse was a spiritual ritual and were met with physical violence and threats. It further notes that victims were marked with tattoos that hotel employees could have seen. The plaintiffs are currently seeking unspecified punitive and compensatory damages. A date for the court proceedings has not been established. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Starting in July, both betting operators and their customers in Uganda will be subject to increased taxation following the passage of two bills by parliament last week. Last Thursday, the Ugandan parliament approved the Lotteries and Gaming (Amendment) Bill 2026, which establishes a unified 30% tax rate across both betting and gaming sectors. Furthermore, the newly ratified Income Tax (Amendment) Bill 2026 mandates a 15% withholding tax on net winnings derived from betting and gaming activities. These legislative measures are part of the Ugandan government’s broader strategy to generate revenue to support the 2026-27 national budget. With the bills now passed, the heightened tax obligations for both operators and players will take effect on 1 July. Betting targeted in Uganda tax hike Under the previous Lotteries and Gaming (Amendment) Act 2023, Uganda utilized a two-tier system for gambling taxes. That legislation increased the tax on gaming, such as casinos, from 20% to 30%, based on the assessment that these activities carry a greater risk of player harm. Conversely, betting was taxed at 20% due to its classification as a lower-margin sector for operators. The implementation of this harmonized rate in July positions Uganda as having one of the most significant tax burdens in Africa. However, the nation is not alone in adjusting its gambling tax framework. In Kenya, authorities introduced a 5% levy on all betting wallet withdrawals last year, in addition to a 5% excise duty on deposits. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Lagos state began enforcing a 5% withholding tax on player winnings this past February. Ugandan gambling on an upwards trajectory Data from H2 Gambling Capital indicates that Uganda’s gambling sector has experienced consistent growth over recent years. The total interactive market reached a gross win of $435.3 million in 2025 and is forecasted to exceed $1 billion by the conclusion of 2029. Betting remains the primary vertical, accounting for $341.2 million of the 2025 interactive gross win. Nevertheless, the market continues to grapple with illegal operations, as the offshore interactive sector generated $114.6 million in gross win in 2025, representing over 26% of the total interactive market. Kyle GoldsmithKyle has been with Clarion since December 2023, joining from the world of sports journalism, subsequently becoming a LatAm-facing senior reporter with iGB. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   As U.S. lawmakers work to secure stricter regulations for prediction markets, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) linked to political event contracts are close to hitting the market—and the timeline is earlier than expected.  Specifically, per Roundhill Investments’ filed Form N-1A, this could happen as soon as next week—and Roundhill isn’t the only firm moving forward with such plans.  Six ETFs, Underway The 2018-founded SEC-registered investment advisor focused on innovative ETFs first revealed its plan to launch six ETFs tied to key U.S. election outcomes in February, when it submitted the form to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.  These funds cover Democratic and Republican results for the presidency, House of Representatives, and Senate.  If greenlit, the ETFs could start trading on May 5. The proposed offerings are the Roundhill Democratic President ETF (BLUP), Roundhill Republican President ETF (REDP), Roundhill Democratic Senate ETF (BLUS), Roundhill Republican Senate ETF (REDS), Roundhill Democratic House ETF (BLUH), and Roundhill Republican House ETF (REDH).  The structure of these ETFs will mirror election results. When a party secures control of a legislative chamber, the corresponding ETF linked to that outcome gains value, while the opposing fund declines.  The presidential ETFs are also designed to extend beyond a single election cycle. After the 2028 election, they are expected to transition to products tracking the 2032 race instead of being shut down.  Roundhill, known for its Roundhill Sports Betting & iGaming ETF, has expanded its filings beyond politics too. The firm has proposed two additional funds tied to recession outcomes: the Roundhill Recession Yes ETF (GDPD) and Roundhill Recession No ETF (GDPU), which will monitor whether the U.S. economy enters a downturn.  Others Follow Suit Another issuer, GraniteShares, has nearly identical plans. In filings submitted earlier this week, the company listed May 8 as the effective date for its own election-related ETFs, which cover Democratic and Republican outcomes across the presidency, Senate, and House.  Like Roundhill’s products, GraniteShares’ funds will update after each election cycle, shifting focus to future contests such as the 2028 midterms or the 2032 presidential election.  Bitwise Investments is a third issuer that filed for similar ETFs but hasn’t yet updated its application.  All three firms have stated they intend to work with designated contract markets to source the underlying election-linked contracts, though they did not mention any specific providers.  This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Australian gambling leader Tabcorp has taken action to prohibit a number of well-known professional bettors, highlighting how wagering firms handle risk and their approach to successful clients. Tabcorp Excludes Top Bettors Citing Risk and Compliance A number of prominent punters were informed last week that their ability to bet via online platforms or retail locations was being revoked. “Owing to their internal risk management structure, continuing the relationship was no longer viable, leading to a permanent exclusion from all betting channels,” stated the company. According to The Australian Financial Review, the individuals involved were reportedly surprised and are currently exploring potential legal recourse. Sources within the sector indicated the decision was connected to growing compliance demands, though the company declined to discuss specific instances. Reportedly, the operator is concentrating on confirming customers' financial histories and fulfilling duties related to anti-money laundering and responsible gambling supervision. Nevertheless, industry critics suggest consistent winning may also have played a part, with some alleging that regulatory guidelines serve as a pretext to reduce dealings with profitable customers. This action occurs amid increasing scrutiny on betting companies to enhance safeguards and lower financial crime risks. In recent years, regulators have intensified supervision, mandating firms to adopt stricter monitoring and conduct more thorough customer reviews. Tabcorp has in the past allocated resources to sophisticated analytics technology to detect irregular betting activity and possible issues as they happen. Punters Complain of Locked Accounts and Poor Transparency Concurrently, grievances from regular customers have fueled the ongoing debate. Some bettors report having their accounts suspended for extended durations without explanation, preventing access to their funds. Others describe undergoing lengthy verification procedures and encountering difficulties receiving responses from support staff. There are accounts of betting privileges being restricted soon after a series of successful wagers, reinforcing perceptions that winning players face heightened scrutiny. The firm emphasized that all measures are taken in line with regulatory obligations and corporate protocols, noting its responsibility to adhere to compliance norms. However, patrons have denounced the opacity of the process, with some doubting the sufficiency of available channels to contest decisions. The recent steps by Tabcorp also signal a strategic realignment under its present management, which is increasingly oriented toward retail wagering in venues like pubs and clubs. By tightening oversight on certain client groups, the operator seems to be prioritizing steady operations and sustained risk control over income derived from a limited pool of high-volume gamblers. For the broader sector, however, this incident may represent a significant moment. With regulatory demands growing, wagering firms are likely to take a more decisive part in defining their acceptable client risk thresholds, which could alter the equilibrium between business autonomy and equitable treatment of consumers. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Nevada’s upcoming Governor election has entered a new phase after Aaron Ford announced he plans to eliminate one of the state’s longest-running labor laws if he wins office. During an appearance on a union-supported podcast, Ford said he would sign any bill that would repeal Nevada’s “right-to-work” statute. This position could be a decisive factor for his campaign, as Nevada is home to some of the most well-known labor unions in the United States. Ford Holds a Staunch Pro-Labor Stance First enacted in 1953, this law bars employers and unions from forcing workers to join a labor organization or pay dues as a requirement of employment. Supporters maintain that the rule protects individual choice, while opponents argue it undermines labor unions by letting workers receive union-negotiated pay and perks without contributing financially to the organization. Ford supports a more aggressive expansion of union powers. He has put this issue at the heart of his campaign as part of a broader push to bolster collective bargaining rights. Per Ford’s statements, repealing the law would restore workplace balance and give workers more bargaining power when discussing pay and benefits with employers. Nevada’s world-class workers built the middle class. I will honor their hard work for our state by being the most pro-worker Governor in our state’s history. Aaron Ford Per a recent Nevada Independent report, labor union leaders have spoken positively of Ford’s position and pledged their support for his campaign. For unions, this policy debate directly affects their capacity to fund their operations and retain members in a state where organized labor still holds substantial sway, particularly in the hospitality industry. Any Bill Must Overcome Substantial Hurdles Though it has earned support from unions, Ford’s proposal could face resistance from business associations and conservative voters. The Las Vegas Chamber and other groups have long advocated for keeping the law, claiming it helps attract employers by keeping labor costs predictable and maintaining hiring flexibility. They caution that repealing the rule could leave Nevada less competitive relative to nearby states. Recent labor actions have only escalated existing tensions. Prominent unions including the Culinary Workers Union Local 226 have negotiated high-profile contracts in Las Vegas and held public demonstrations to call for better wages and benefits. These moves have strengthened labor’s visibility and political clout across state politics. Governor Joe Lombardo, who is widely expected to compete against Ford in the election, has shown no interest in changing the existing law, and is instead focusing his agenda on business expansion. This stance creates a clear policy divide between the two candidates. Even if Ford secures victory, repealing the law would not be simple. Previous attempts to repeal or adjust the rule have failed repeatedly, meaning the effort will first require support from state legislators. 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.