Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - Macau's Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ) has confirmed the licensing of two new junket operators in the world's premier gaming hub. Xin Wei Lda and Pok Lok Promoção de Jogos Lda have received authorization to cater to VIP gamblers at the city's casinos. This increases the total number of licensed junkets to 31, a rise from 29 last year, yet remains significantly under the sector's maximum allowance of 50. Junkets act as intermediaries for wealthy casino clients, most of whom come from mainland China. Historically, they provided credit and payment services, allowing VIPs to circumvent China's currency controls that restricted daily overseas transfers to 20,000 renminbi ($3,200). At their zenith in 2014, 235 junket operators dominated Macau's casino sector, accounting for up to 70% of all gaming revenue. Sector marked by scandal The junket system began to collapse under the oversight of Chinese President Xi Jinping, who assumed leadership in 2013. His administration initiated a robust anti-corruption campaign. One key focus was halting the illegal outflow of capital from the mainland, which included money moved by VIP gamblers. The initial collapse occurred in 2014 when Macau junket operator Huang Shan left the region, defaulting on HK$10 billion ($1.3 billion) in debt. That year, a Chinese court also designated Hengsheng Group's Ji Xiaobo as a major crime figure. He was accused of establishing illicit casinos abroad, employing violence to recover gambling debts, and laundering the proceeds. In 2015, a cage cashier stole HK$700 million from Dore Entertainment, a junket running VIP rooms at Wynn Macau. In 2023, Suncity Group chief Alvin Chau was convicted of illegal gambling and organized crime in a case that accelerated the downturn for Macau's junket operators. The critical strike followed with the arrest and prosecution of two prominent junket leaders. In 2023, a Chinese court convicted Suncity's "junket king," Alvin Chau, of illegal gambling and organized crime. His scheme, involving HK$823.7 billion in unreported bets, deprived the Macau government of HK$8.26 billion in tax income. Chau received an 18-year prison sentence. Tak Chun junket head Levo Chan was sentenced to 14 years for comparable offenses. He enabled clandestine betting operations that cost casinos HK$35 billion and the government around HK$8.6 billion. Macau junkets: Down but not out By 2024, a mere 18 junkets were operating in Macau, leading to predictions of the sector's demise. Those obituaries were premature, but the regulatory landscape has been fundamentally reshaped. Under Macau's 2023 gaming law, junkets can no longer extend credit or operate VIP rooms. They are restricted to partnering with a single one of Macau's six casino concessionaires, though a concessionaire may work with multiple junkets. Junkets now earn a fixed 1.25% commission on rolling chip turnover, rather than a share of casino revenues. While 31 junkets are officially registered, perhaps only 20 are actively in business. Nonetheless, the local government anticipates collecting MOP150 million ($18.6 million) in tax this year from commissions casinos pay to junkets. This represents a 50% increase over the MOP100 million projected for the 2025 fiscal year. Marjorie PrestonMarjorie started her career in gaming in 2007 and has specialized in Asian markets since 2020. In her personal time, she writes on travel and cinema and is a drummer. 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) - Seven national gaming associations across the Western Balkans have established a unified Balkan Gaming Federation (BGF) to advance regional cooperation within the gaming sector. This week, the organizations signed a Memorandum of Cooperation in Belgrade at a meeting hosted by Serbia’s Association of Gaming Operators (AGOS). Bulgaria’s Association of Online Gaming and Gambling Operators (AOGGOB) co-led the initiative. Enhancing Enforcement Against Illegal Gambling The agreement aims to unify the voice of the region’s gambling industry by bringing together seven national associations representing operators, suppliers, and tech providers. These associations hail from Serbia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia. The federation was created as a platform to coordinate policy, compliance, and commercial activities throughout the region without replacing existing national organizations. In a Monday statement, the federation noted it intends to leverage combined expertise and resources to boost enforcement efforts against illegal gambling. It will also work to combat unfair competition, facilitate the exchange of regulatory best practices, and conduct joint lobbying on legislative issues. Additionally, it plans to foster business partnerships, organize regional events, and roll out shared marketing initiatives aimed at raising the Western Balkans’ profile within Europe’s gaming sector. At the Belgrade meeting, attendees presented market analyses and discussed initial contributions. The federation agreed on a provisional brand identity and established internal communication channels to coordinate upcoming initiatives. The Nations Backing the Federation Launched by Serbian and Bulgarian industry associations and held in Serbia’s capital, the memorandum aligned with ongoing regulatory reforms across the region. The participating countries have a diverse range of regulated gambling markets. Serbia and Romania are recognized for their large online gambling sectors that attract international operators like Bet365, Evoke, and most recently, Superbet via its acquisition of Maxbet. Croatia and Bulgaria have substantial land-based casino industries alongside expanding online operations. Bosnia and Herzegovina has a more fragmented regulatory landscape, a challenge the federation aims to address. Bulgaria recently tightened sports betting regulations to impose an absolute ban on betting by its national football players and team staff. This follows an increase in the self-exclusion period to one year. As of March 2025, 54,000 individuals had opted into Bulgaria’s self-exclusion programme. Croatia is currently rolling out a national self-exclusion scheme for gamblers. Meanwhile, Montenegro is facing disputes over planned tax reforms. Relations with European Entities A major discussion topic was the federation’s ties with EUROMAT, the leading European amusement and gaming association. Several BGF member bodies already hold memberships with EUROMAT. The meeting’s consensus was to position the BGF as a distinct Balkan cluster that maintains connections with existing European frameworks while asserting its own regional identity. The associations scheduled a follow-up gathering on May 26, coinciding with the Belgrade Future Gaming exhibition. Organizers expect to finalize the federation’s governance structure and elect its president by autumn 2026. Kathryn EvansKathryn reports on concise breaking news with a primary focus on EMEA and US legislative matters. A proud North Walian, fluent Welsh speaker, and lifelong Wrexham FC supporter — 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) - AffPapa is pleased to reveal that Evoplay has signed on as the sponsor for the “Women Redefining Leadership and Innovation in iGaming” panel at the 2026 AffPapa Conference Madrid. Scheduled for May 30 from 13:50 to 14:30, the session will be led by moderator Liga Tarasova. The panel features Marharyta Yerina, Valentina Baginya, Ayelet Shay, Diana Larina, and Roberta Nicholls, who will explore the vital contributions of women to leadership and innovation within the iGaming sector. Diana Larina, Evoplay’s Head of Marketing, remarked on the partnership: We are thrilled to be a panel sponsor for the AffPapa Conference Madrid 2026 and to participate in these significant industry dialogues. Such gatherings offer excellent platforms for exchanging knowledge, enhancing professional ties, and discovering new growth avenues in the affiliate and operator space. As a speaker, I plan to offer my perspectives on leadership, diversity, and how women are driving the industry forward. I am eager to engage with my fellow panelists and network with the professionals defining the future of iGaming. The AffPapa Conference Madrid is set to take place from May 18-20 at the Novotel Hotel Madrid, attracting over 1,500 participants for a premier affiliate-focused networking experience. Attendees can look forward to a diverse program designed to bridge the gap between affiliates, operators, and B2B providers. The schedule includes a padel tournament, speed-dating sessions, various panels, evening drinks, the AffPapa iGaming Awards 2026, and a final celebration featuring DJ Kryoman. Yeva Avagyan, Head of Commercial at AffPapa, stated: It is a pleasure to welcome Evoplay as a sponsor for this session. This is a crucial topic, and we are delighted to feature this dialogue at the AffPapa Conference Madrid. Participate in AffPapa’s largest affiliate event to date and check the official website for available sponsorship opportunities. 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) - Gamblers Connect, the award-winning iGaming media and affiliate platform, is marking its fifth anniversary and now ranks among the most recognized affiliate media brands in the global iGaming industry. Gamblers Connect was founded with one clear mission: to build a transparent platform that prioritizes players. What started as a simple, straightforward concept quickly grew into something far more impactful. Within its first 12 months of operation, the company had already earned its first industry award. Since then, Gamblers Connect has continued to grow its offerings by launching new sections, tools and features, while consistently hitting key milestones and strengthening its visibility across major industry events, conferences and speaking platforms. The platform’s service suite was further enhanced with the launch of the Responsible Gambling Index, a proprietary evaluation tool that has become one of its defining core features, covering both casino operators and game providers. This ongoing progress has been reflected in widespread industry recognition, with multiple awards and nominations at leading industry events, including honors for Casino Affiliate of the Year, News Affiliate of the Year, Crypto Affiliate of the Year and Best Affiliate of the Year. Over the past five years, Gamblers Connect has evolved far beyond the traditional affiliate model. The platform now operates as a full-fledged iGaming media brand, producing a wide range of editorial content, industry news, interviews and B2B-focused coverage, serving both players and industry stakeholders equally. Gjorgje Ristikj, Founder of Gamblers Connect, commented: 2026 marks not just an anniversary, but a clear step forward for our brand. The launch of the GC Contributors Program, the introduction of the iHub, and an entirely new platform currently in development make clear where Gamblers Connect is headed – deeper integration across the industry, more ambitious in scope, and built to meet the needs of the next five years. 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 an investor presentation on March 26, Banijay Entertainment—parent company of Tipico and Betclic—reaffirmed its confidence in the strictly regulated European markets where it currently operates. In its investor deck, the operator stated that Betclic maintains the top position for online betting in France, while Tipico holds the leading spot across Germany’s betting sector. The group added that Tipico’s Admiral betting business also holds a strong leading position in Austria. Banijay noted that its acquisition of Tipico—first announced in October 2023—“strengthened its leadership in sports betting and gaming by adding two new countries with leading positions.” Group CEO François Riahi commented that Europe remains “the largest and one of the most attractive regions globally for the business.” According to Riahi, Europe represents “half of the global [gaming] market, which importantly, and unlike the US, was characterised by greater regulatory visibility and stability.” The CEO pointed out that operating in highly regulated markets enhances the predictability of their business model. Notably, France, Germany, and Austria are considered among Europe’s more restrictive markets. France does not legally permit iGaming, while Germany has been grappling with strict player restrictions—including stake and deposit limits—and a large black market. Currently, only one licence is available in Austria for lotteries and online gaming products. This 15-year permit is held by Win2day, a brand of Austrian Lotteries (a subsidiary of Casinos Austria, which also owns all 12 land-based casino licences). Top-tier operators consolidating in strictly regulated markets However, this push by leading European gaming groups to prioritise heavily regulated markets appears to be part of a broader trend. FDJ United, which acquired Kindred last year, has made similar moves to consolidate the sector in these markets. This strategy supports the trend of tier-one players consolidating the sector as smaller operators struggle to navigate tax hikes amid tightening restrictions across the continent. Speaking to iGB on this topic last November, veteran gambling strategist Vaughan Lewis said: “This shows that significant value creation is driven by regulated markets. Regulatory challenges create entry barriers, which tend to increase the value and sustainability of leading operators.” Addressing investors, Banijay’s Riahi stated that the operator’s current markets are underpinned by robust frameworks to protect established players. This, he said, creates meaningful entry barriers and reduces the risk of disruptions. Excluding the black market, he estimated Europe’s gambling sector accounts for 44% of the global €97 billion in GGR in 2024. He noted that France, Germany, Austria, Poland, and Portugal are currently underserved markets. For France, he expects a 5-7x growth opportunity—from a market of three million players to up to twenty million. Banijay is targeting €100 million in synergies between Tipico and Betclic over the mid-term, split into €70 million in opex and approximately €30 million in capex synergies. Germany’s regulation deemed “too strict” Despite his confidence in European growth, the Banijay CEO expressed frustration with Germany’s challenging regulatory landscape while answering analysts’ questions. “Germany is a country where regulation is too tough, and a portion of the market still consists of an unprotected black market,” he said. But Riahi added that it is the sector’s role to work with policymakers to tackle growing black market threats. “The same applies to iGaming in France, so we believe that with our expanded European presence, it will be our job to convince governments that it is in no one’s interest to let a black market develop when regulation is too stringent and intended to protect,” he noted. Germany’s regulator recently reported that its black market accounts for only 23% of the total market size. However, stakeholders warned this was an overly “conservative” estimate, with the actual figure closer to 50%. On prediction markets, Riahi said Banijay’s brands have not experienced any leakage in European sports betting. He noted that European regulation is heavily restrictive of novelty and non-sports markets, leaving no room for prediction markets to develop in the region. Nicole MacedoNicole got her start in local newsrooms in her native Gibraltar and helped establish the peninsula’s first online-only 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) - A new report commissioned by the Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling (BOS) and written by economist Ola Nevander indicates that problem gambling rates in Sweden have decreased significantly since the late 2000s. This downward trend occurred even as the online gambling sector saw rapid expansion, higher advertising spend, and improved digital access. The study utilized the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) as a screening mechanism to quantify these figures. A decrease in problem gambling The frequency of problem gambling among adults in Sweden has seen a major reduction. The percentage of the adult population identified as problem gamblers (with a PGSI score of 3 or higher) fell from 2.2% in 2008-09 to 1.3% by 2021. This represents a decrease of approximately 57,000 individuals, marking a 35% drop over the period. Furthermore, the number of people classified as at-risk gamblers (PGSI 1+) decreased by an estimated 200,000 during the same timeframe. Despite this overall decline, the rate of severe problem gambling (PGSI 8+ or equivalent) has remained largely constant over the decades, staying between 0.3% and 0.6% of the population. Among those who participated in online gambling over the past year, the rate of problem gambling fell sharply from 12% in 2008-09 to roughly 4% between 2018 and 2021. While problem gambling is on the decline, Swedes remain active participants in the market. A recent study by Casinofeber found that nearly 18% of Swedes played online casino games in 2025, while 24% engaged in online sports betting during that same year. These developments occurred during a transformative two decades for the Swedish market. Real-term marketing spending by the industry grew nearly ninefold between 2000 and 2024, reaching a peak in 2018 before falling after the 2019 licensing reforms. Online casino options grew more than ten times between the mid-2000s and 2019. Furthermore, smartphone and internet usage reached almost total saturation by 2020. Market channelisation and self-exclusion A significant institutional factor mentioned is the movement of players toward licensed platforms. Higher channelisation allows for the consistent enforcement of consumer safety measures, such as duty-of-care requirements, self-exclusion options, and data-led monitoring. BOS reported an overall channelisation rate of roughly 85%, though rates are slightly lower for online casinos. Norway and Denmark have achieved higher rates of 91.5% and 91% respectively, while Finland’s rate sits much lower at 48% as it prepares for its own licensing changes. Sweden’s national self-exclusion registry, Spelpaus, recorded approximately 136,000 users by March 2026, representing 1.6% of the adult population. However, data from helplines and surveys suggest that about half of those who self-exclude continue to gamble via unlicensed providers. The effectiveness of CBT The report examines both domestic and international research regarding treatment and prevention strategies. While machine-learning systems that monitor transaction data show potential for identifying problem gambling, long-term studies are still needed. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has shown strong results in mitigating gambling harm. The survey noted that meta-analyses indicate CBT can effectively reduce gambling frequency, spending, and addiction symptoms compared to control groups. Jakob Jonsson, a psychologist with extensive experience in treating gambling disorders, advocated for centralized systems to combat the sense of anonymity in online gambling. He noted that many players feel invisible, as if their actions are unobserved. Sweden overhauled its online gambling regulations in 2019, establishing a licensing system with specific requirements for operators. The country has recently engaged in further regulatory discussions. Hasse Lord Skarplöth, the outgoing CEO of ATG, suggested that Sweden should adopt a tiered tax system to protect horse racing from tax increases, similar to models used in the UK. David Sundén, an expert in regulatory policy and taxation, noted that while the Swedish system is generally effective, there is still room for progress. He suggested that Sweden should look to its neighbors to learn what pitfalls to avoid, noting that no single country has a perfect system. Kathryn EvansKathryn provides concise coverage of breaking news, focusing on legislative developments in the US and EMEA. Originally from North Wales, she is a fluent Welsh speaker and a devoted supporter of Wrexham FC. 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 Dominican Republic is modernizing its gambling industry by merging two significant legislative bills into a single, unified regulatory framework. Senator Pedro Catrain introduced a comprehensive gaming bill covering various types of gambling, while Senator Félix Bautista proposed a more specific bill focused on sports betting. The aim of this legislation is to address inconsistencies and establish a complete structure for overseeing all gambling activities in the country. Over the past several months, lawmakers have been revising numerous provisions in both proposals as part of the consolidation effort, making substantial progress toward developing a unified gambling regulatory model. Both legislative initiatives share common objectives related to enhancing oversight and market integrity. The consolidated legislation will provide: Clear guidelines for licensing and supervision Strengthened enforcement mechanisms Safeguards for players' rights Measures to prevent fraud In addition to clarifying regulations for licensing and overseeing casinos on cruise ships, vessels carrying over 2,000 passengers will now need a formal permit to remain in Dominican territorial waters for more than six consecutive hours. This measure acknowledges the significant contribution of cruise ship tourism to the Dominican Republic's growing tourism sector, which welcomed nearly three million visitors in 2025 through cruise line travel. Regulatory bodies have also expressed concerns about financial crime linked to cruise ship casinos. To mitigate these risks, the proposed changes would apply the same compliance standards to cruise ship casinos as those for land-based casinos in luxury hotels. This approach is intended to reduce instances of money laundering and other illicit financing activities associated with gaming. 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) - Norway has launched a four-year initiative aimed at reducing gambling's societal impact, with the program running through 2029. This action plan focuses on creating more prevention campaigns, improving treatment availability, and advancing research, instead of amending current gambling legislation. A key target group is young people aged 9 to 25, as well as other high-risk populations. The plan involves school outreach programs, digital awareness initiatives for youth, and supplying resources to help parents, educators, and communities recognize potential warning signs. Support services will also be strengthened by improving access to a toll-free helpline and broadening the availability of free, remote treatment options. The project's overarching goal is to implement a public health strategy across communities to address gambling-related issues, thereby helping to reduce and prevent gambling addiction and offer better support to at-risk individuals. 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) - In the 2025 fiscal year, Success Universe Group reported a net loss of HKD 410.4 million (USD 52.4 million), reversing the HKD 93.4 million (USD 11.9 million) profit it earned in 2024. This downturn is mainly attributed to impairment charges linked to Ponte 16, its former satellite casino in Macau. The primary driver of the company’s annual decline was an impairment charge of HKD 340.7 million (USD 43.5 million) on its ownership stake in Ponte 16, which made up about 83% of the Group’s total fiscal year loss. The Group also recorded a prorated loss of HKD 3.8 million (USD 485,000) from its Ponte 16-related associates—contrasting with the HKD 112 million equity contribution those associates provided in the fiscal year ending December 30, 2024. The official closure of Ponte 16 casino was announced on November 29, 2025, because the involved parties (SJM Resorts Limited) could not finalize a full acquisition agreement. SJM Resorts had previously signaled interest in buying multiple satellite casinos before the December 31, 2025 deadline, but ultimately only went through with the acquisition of L’Arc Casino. On its Ponte 16 investment, Success Universe stated: While the Group expects a significant negative impact on its share of results from associates following the halt of Casino Ponte 16’s operations, it remains committed to its investment in the Ponte 16 project. Ponte 16’s strategic focus will shift to maximizing the value of non-gaming assets while continuing to explore new hospitality and leisure-entertainment opportunities to drive sustainable long-term value. Despite these losses, the company saw an approximate 16% year-on-year increase in total revenues from its other business segments—including travel services, property investments, and financial assets—reaching HKD 59.7 million (USD 7.6 million). 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 Star Entertainment Group confirmed on Thursday that it has finalized a $390 million refinancing agreement with WhiteHawk Capital. This refinancing will provide the company with an extra $50 million in liquidity by restructuring its current debts and offering the option to refinance new obligations. The three-year facility incorporates a tiered minimum liquidity requirement, starting at AU $50 million for the initial 12 months, then rising to AU $75 million, and further to AU $100 million after 18 months. Furthermore, the refinancing outlines a timeline for anticipated financial reporting obligations, which include: December 2026 – Asset coverage stipulations, March 2027 – EBITDA conditions, March 2028 – Commencement of quarterly amortization. Star anticipates finalizing this refinancing by May 15, 2026, to meet the terms linked to waivers previously granted by its senior lenders. This refinancing forms part of a wider corporate restructuring. Bally’s Corporation and its affiliates invested AU $300 million into Star’s operations in August 2025, leading to a change in its ownership framework. Moreover, Star has undertaken various management adjustments and enacted cost-reduction strategies, such as office closures and workforce reductions. The company is also actively pursuing an exit from its stake in the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane joint venture, contingent on its creditors releasing the AU $700 million debt guarantee. 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) - In 2026, MAC is set to once again gather leading iGaming and affiliate professionals in Yerevan. Attendees can look forward to upgraded zones, an enhanced program, expanded networking opportunities, and, naturally, warm reconnections with long-time friends and colleagues. For nearly a decade, MAC has stood as a premier event in the industry, bringing together those who truly generate profit from traffic. Each year, the conference serves as a central meeting point for media buyers, traffic arbitrage teams, advertisers, affiliate programs, adtech companies, fintech projects, and crypto entrepreneurs. The conference unites both Russian-speaking teams, known for their substantial traffic volumes, and international brands seeking to scale and penetrate new markets. For three days, Yerevan transforms into the city of MAC – a dynamic environment where interactions extend beyond the exhibition area to hotels, restaurants, private gatherings, and parties. Why Attend MAC’26 If you believe the affiliate industry's epicenter lies solely in the US and Western Europe, consider this insight: some of the highest volumes, quickest tests, and most impressive returns on investment frequently originate far from London or Las Vegas — specifically, within the CIS region. The unique value CIS teams offer international brands: Enter new geographical markets in days, not months Launch campaigns in various sources without needing extensive manuals Confidently operate within high-risk verticals Achieve rapid scaling These teams have developed their expertise amidst restrictions, fluctuating regulations, and continuous bans. This isn't merely a method of operation; it's a distinct mindset. If you wish to engage with these teams directly, there's no need to scour Telegram channels or private chats – they all converge at MAC’26. Over 5,000 participants from across the globe – an unparalleled chance to connect with a significant portion of the industry in one location and forge new relationships More than 20 international experts – offering practical insights, authentic case studies, and actionable strategies Over 200 booths and lounges – a space to encounter competitors, partners, familiar faces, and future collaborators Legendary parties and afterparty – featuring headliners, bars, and hookahs in an atmosphere where professional contacts effortlessly evolve into friendships VIP tickets include access to the afterparty – highly recommended. Event Schedule May 25 – Pre-conference party and associated side events May 26 – Primary conference day and additional side events May 27 – Concluding conference sessions and the renowned afterparty Who Should Attend The conference provides significant value for professionals in: iGaming Affiliate marketing Traffic arbitrage AdTech and performance marketing Facebook advertising Fintech and crypto projects Digital entrepreneurship If your work is in iGaming or affiliate marketing and you are seeking a venue where East meets West, the iGaming & Affiliate Conference MAC’26 is for you. It presents a unique opportunity for international brands to meet leading Russian-speaking media buying teams and establish partnerships that can unlock new markets. MAC’26 Speakers Each year, the organizing team endeavors to assemble a truly impactful lineup of speakers from around the world – experts who possess proven strategies for generating substantial revenue in iGaming & Affiliate marketing. Confirmed speakers include: Stefan Muehlbauer – Director of the Dating Advertiser “Masters in Cash”, CEO of Affpal. Van Oakes – international performance marketing expert, CEO of Tuff Ring and GOAT Media. Anca Andreica – CEO of MaxWeb, author of Affiliate Insider, TEDx speaker, strategist behind $300M+ annual campaigns. Anton Khomenok – entrepreneur, marketer, founder of X6 GROUP, and creator of a popular expert YouTube channel. Filipp Levin – Telegram Ads specialist, head of eProfit.me (masterclass!). Why Yerevan? A safe, welcoming, and vibrant urban center Direct flights available from numerous major Western cities – simplifying logistics and avoiding visa complications An ideal neutral hub for international networking For Exhibitors 70% of exhibition booths are already reserved If you intend to exhibit, now is the optimal time to secure your space and ensure maximum audience engagement May 25-27, Yerevan, Meridian Expo MAC’26 – Position yourself at the core of the industry. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - On March 11, Matthew Ferrara, Altenar’s North America Sales Manager, took part in the Fireside Chat: The Next Generation of Sports Bettors at NEXT Summit New York, alongside representatives from Fanatics and Stokastic. The session centered on a major industry shift: a new cohort of bettors who grew up with mobile-first, instant, digital-native experiences – and they expect sports betting to meet that same standard. Betting is now integrated into the entertainment ecosystem For this new generation, betting has never been an offline, slow activity. It has always been mobile, on-demand, and woven into their daily digital habits. As discussed during the panel, betting is no longer solely about placing a wager. It is a component of a broader entertainment experience – shaped by social interaction, real-time engagement, and community. Users do not only bet. They also: talking through betting picks in group chats reacting to live events together as a community engaging with related content alongside their betting activity For operators, this shifts the core role of the product. It is no longer just a standalone tool – it becomes an integral part of the overall user experience. User expectations are shaped outside the betting industry One of the key themes from the discussion was that sportsbooks are no longer competing only with one another. User expectations are formed by the highest-performing digital products across all industries. Speed, simplicity, and seamless UX are no longer competitive advantages – they are default expectations for users today. Any friction, especially during peak high-demand moments, directly impacts user retention rates. Personalization is growing increasingly critical Matthew Ferrara highlighted an unaddressed gap that still exists across many sportsbook products: how content and betting markets are presented to users. Matthew Ferrara, Altenar’s Sales Manager for North America, said: If you visit a sportsbook and there are 3,000 available options, this can feel incredibly intimidating for the casual recreational user. Every digital product we use today is tailored to us based on our past interactions. Sports betting should be no different. The core challenge is not the total number of betting markets, but the lack of clear structure and relevant personalization. For the new generation of bettors, who are accustomed to personalized feeds across all their digital platforms, sportsbook interfaces need to evolve in this same direction. For Altenar, this means focusing on: delivering relevant betting markets faster reducing how much manual search users need to do building a more intuitive, user-led experience Building products around operator needs A key point emphasized throughout the discussion was the critical importance of flexibility. In a constantly shifting market, product development cannot remain static. Altenar’s product roadmap is shaped by: operator requirements market dynamics competitive insights and continuous product evolution based on market demand Ferrara added: We look at the broader digital landscape and ask: what do users expect today, how are products evolving across social media, ecommerce, AI and everyday digital applications – and how do we bring those same standards into the sportsbook experience. The direction of the market is clear. The next generation of bettors is not adapting to existing sportsbooks. Sportsbooks need to adapt to them. That means: less user friction more relevant experiences more intuitive interfaces and stronger integration with how users already consume digital content in their daily lives Operators that move in this direction will be better positioned to engage and retain users in an increasingly competitive market landscape. 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) - Flexifai, a payment tech firm focused on high-friction markets, has rolled out an AI-powered routing engine designed to boost transaction approval rates in emerging economies. The firm states that a digital operator in Ghana saw its conversion rate jump from 43% to 73% within a month of the system going live, achieving this without altering the product design or checkout process. This outcome was achieved through three linked features: intelligent routing, which chooses payment paths using real-time performance metrics like authorization rates and processing latency; cascading logic, which sends transactions to backup providers if they fail; and automated retry mechanisms that try again on declined transactions before the user session ends. Ghana posed a distinct infrastructure challenge that influenced the rollout. Mobile money systems in the region do not have the anti-fraud monitoring tools that card-based environments usually possess. This created a situation where fraudulent activity—such as one user cycling through many phone numbers or email addresses—was hard to spot at the provider level. Flexifai solved this issue by creating alert systems linked to specific data fields that show the strongest link to fraud signals: customer phone numbers, email addresses, and the transmission sequence of that data. This method allowed for large-scale pattern recognition and generated structured reports, enabling the operator to spot potential high-risk users and act accordingly. “Ghana is a market with a growing digital economy and genuinely unpredictable payment infrastructure,” said Sofiia, head of sales at Flexifai. “Routing technology that adapts to those conditions in real time is not a secondary feature – it is the core of what makes conversion possible in markets like this.” This identical strategy has since been utilized in Kenya and Zambia, where the lack of antifraud infrastructure in mobile money ecosystems creates similar hurdles. In both nations, Flexifai implemented data-driven pattern recognition to set up pre-emptive fraud analysis in settings where standard PSP tools offered little visibility. The routing engine analyzes signals such as user device type, IP address, and geo-risk indicators, as well as time-of-day bank behaviour, issuing bank traits linked to the BIN level, and real-time gateway load. Flexifai presently facilitates over 80 local payment methods throughout Africa, Europe, Latin America, Australia, Canada and New Zealand. Its African reach encompasses mobile wallets like OPay, PalmPay, MTN MoMo and Airtel, alongside USSD rails, agent networks, instant bank transfers and open banking infrastructure. The firm keeps on-the-ground teams in Lagos and various parts of Latin America. The routing engine is currently active and keeps adding new data signals and providers as the platform grows. 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) - End2End, a global technology provider exclusively focused on multiplayer bingo solutions, is set to expand its network presence across Brazil at BiS SiGMA South America 2026, taking place from April 6–9 at the Transamerica Expo Center in São Paulo. As Brazil’s regulated gaming evolves and operators expand their digital portfolios, bingo is becoming one of the most interesting complementary verticals for licensed operators. Brazil has a deep-rooted cultural connection to bingo, and as the market matures, the opportunity to bring modern, multiplayer bingo experiences into the digital environment is significant. End2End is in Sao Paulo to showcase its expertise in the Brazilian market and speak with potential new white-label partners for the End2End Bingo Network. The company is also looking to expand its affiliate partnerships and distribution reach, working with operators and affiliates looking to differentiate their offering through bingo. Founder and CEO Alejandro Revich and Chief Commercial Officer Pablo Bonifacich will be on-site throughout the event to meet with operators, affiliates and partners exploring new product opportunities within the Brazilian ecosystem. End2End is exclusively dedicated to the multiplayer bingo vertical. The company’s technology has been designed as a true end-to-end solution, combining its proprietary platform, Player Account Management (PAM), and network infrastructure to enable operators to deploy scalable bingo environments across mobile, online and physical retail locations. Alejandro Revich, Founder and CEO of End2End, said: Brazil is one of the most exciting markets in the world right now, and with our certification secured, we believe bingo will play a significant role as operators look to build out their product offering. The cultural affinity for bingo here is undeniable, and the digital infrastructure is ready. At BiS SiGMA, we want to show operators and affiliates exactly how our network model works and why End2End is the partner to bring bingo to life in Brazil. We’re here to grow our network, expand our partnerships and demonstrate that when it comes to bingo in Brazil, End2End is the clear choice. All End2End technology, including its multiplayer bingo platform and proprietary PAM, is certified for Brazil and compliant with GLI-19 standards, reinforcing the company’s commitment to compliance and regulated market requirements. 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) - On Sunday, Nepal’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MoCIT) ordered the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) to carry out the directive: “immediately close [all] betting apps and websites, including any electronic betting” within a 24-hour window. In response, the NTA collaborated with internet service providers to block access to these platforms. This ban is part of a 100-point policy reform agenda under Prime Minister Balendra Shah, who was elected on March 5. The 35-year-old rapper and former Kathmandu mayor—who built his following via social media and pledged greater governance transparency—secured nearly a two-thirds majority, easily defeating his controversial rival KP Sharma Oli. Shah was sworn into office on March 27. The next day, Oli was arrested on allegations of authorizing deadly force during public demonstrations in Nepal last September. During the so-called “Gen-Z uprising,” police killed at least 19 people who took to the streets to protest government corruption. They also opposed a ban on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X, which Oli claimed had failed to comply with government regulations. Those bans have since been lifted. Curbing the Surge in Online Gambling All forms of gambling are illegal in Nepal, and participation is considered a criminal offense. Penalties include fines of Rs30,000 (about US$300), device forfeiture, and jail terms ranging from three months to one year. Despite the prohibition, the government has grown increasingly concerned about the rise in online betting—with its potential financial and social harms, especially for young users. Citing similar risks, India, Nepal’s South Asian neighbor, also banned online gambling last year. MoCIT has promised “strict action … against anyone who uses or operates betting apps and websites unauthorisedly”. Marjorie PrestonMarjorie started her gaming career in 2007 and has focused on Asian gaming markets since 2020. Outside work, she writes about travel and film and plays the drums. 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) - LiveScore Group has officially introduced Virgin Bet to South Africa, marking the brand's first international expansion outside of the United Kingdom. The new online platform, found at Virginbet.co.za, aligns with LiveScore Group’s strategic objective to increase its footprint across Africa, according to a company statement on Monday. Operations for the new site will be managed from the group’s established betting hub in Nigeria, which also handles the LiveScore Bet brand. The continent's premier regulated gambling landscape South Africa is recognized as the largest regulated gambling market in Africa, with oversight provided by both national and provincial regulators. According to the National Gambling Board (NGB), the country saw 1.5 trillion South African Rand ($89 billion) in total wagers during the 2024/2025 fiscal year, representing a 31.3% rise from the previous year. The sports betting sector made up 75% of these wagers, while casinos accounted for 19.5%. Bingo and limited payout machines (LPMs) contributed 1.8% and 3.6%, respectively. As of 2024, the gambling industry supported approximately 34,316 jobs, per NGB data. Meanwhile, South Africa’s National Treasury has proposed a 20% tax levy for digital gambling, suggesting a transition toward a more regulated and higher-tax environment for online betting—a move that has faced opposition from the industry. A focus on player safety and responsibility The operator stated that the new platform features various player protection tools, such as self-exclusion, time-out periods, and deposit limits. To ensure regulatory compliance and user assistance, the site will utilize age verification and a dedicated local support staff. Gail Odgers, the head of marketing for Virgin Bet South Africa, commented on the launch, stating that the company is dedicated to establishing a trustworthy brand that South African players can rely on. Additionally, the firm has committed to launching local corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs focused on advocating for safer gambling within the community. The South African site is designed to cater to the nation's large and growing sports betting audience, with a particular emphasis on major sports like rugby, cricket, and football. Odgers further noted that the local passion for sports, which are a staple of daily life, makes South Africa a highly attractive market for 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.