Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - Super Technologies has introduced its Superbet brand to the Greek market, featuring its sportsbook and iGaming services, all managed by a dedicated local team. The company confirmed its market entry on Monday, marking Greece as a key strategic region for its growth in Central and Southern Europe. This step is consistent with Superbet's wider international expansion plan and comes after recent growth moves, such as its purchase of MaxBet, which extended its presence in Romania, Serbia, and Malta. Greece’s blooming market H2 Gambling Capital's Ed Birkin notes that Greece is a compelling market, expanding at approximately 15% annually. Its gross win is valued at €1.2 billion, with projections suggesting it will grow to €1.5 billion within the next few years. “Since under 60% of the licensed betting and gaming market is currently online, there is additional potential for migration from retail to digital,” Birkin recently stated to iGB. Approximately 20 brands are active in the market at present. OPAP's Stoiximan continues to hold the leading position, commanding about half of the licensed online sports betting sector. The market has seen an increasing operational presence, especially in Athens, where companies have set up technology and trading centers. This concentration has aided in establishing Greece as a rising hub for iGaming infrastructure in Southern Europe. Even with steady double-digit growth in online gambling revenue, digital adoption is somewhat lower than in more established European markets. This indicates potential for further growth as consumers increasingly move their activities online. ‘Mature and thriving market’ Superbet has assembled a local team headquartered in Athens that will focus on Greek sports events and community engagement. Adam Lamentowicz, Super's Chief Commercial Officer for Central and Eastern Europe, described Greece as a "mature and thriving market." “This launch is more than just a standard market entry,” Lamentowicz commented. “It represents a sustained pledge to develop the nation's most captivating entertainment ecosystem and unite people through thrilling experiences and a common enthusiasm for sports.” John Kalamvokis, General Manager of Superbet Greece, pointed to "a skilled team of professionals" recruited to run the local operations. He mentioned the rollout of a new social feature named Supersocial as a novel development designed to boost user interaction. “We are merely beginning a future success story that will progress through significant partnerships and community initiatives.” Propositions and product focus Superbet's offering in Greece will center on a comprehensive sportsbook that includes football, basketball, and tennis. It will provide both pre-match and in-play betting options with attractive odds. The operator stressed its commitment to adhering to regulations and delivering a tailored product, complete with native desktop and mobile user interfaces. 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) - Soft2Bet introduces MEGA Islands, an innovative gamification engine enabling players to construct and expand their own islands, accumulate rewards, and advance through a persistent journey engineered to enhance retention across casino and sportsbook verticals. Soft2Bet has unveiled MEGA Islands, the newest addition to its MEGA Suite, developed to bolster player retention across the platform. The engine introduces a continuous progression layer that persists between sessions, providing players with an ongoing incentive to return through island development, resource gathering, and advancement. Initially launched in Soft2Bet's recent Lodur release, the MEGA Islands system centers on a durable progression layer that transfers across sessions. Players cultivate their personal island over time, earning resources through gameplay that can be utilized to erect new structures, enhance existing buildings, and unlock subsequent progression stages. Each upgrade reveals fresh objectives, converting brief sessions into extended advancement. MEGA Islands also incorporates raiding mechanics that establish an additional pathway within the experience. Users can raid islands to acquire extra resources and continue expanding their own territory, sustaining an active progression loop as they advance. With no definitive endpoint, the engine is designed to encourage repeat engagement through a clear cycle of construction, collection, and progression. Yoel Zuckerberg, CPO at Soft2Bet, stated: MEGA Islands is crafted to make retention feel organic by delivering players a progression journey they want to revisit continuously. When users can build their own island, gather resources, and unlock upgrades through raiding, each session becomes part of a broader experience. This provides players with a clear motivation to return while offering operators a retention tool that integrates naturally across casino and sportsbook. The debut of MEGA Islands reinforces Soft2Bet's sustained investment in gamification as a catalyst for long-term growth. As part of the MEGA Suite, the new engine provides operators with another avenue to create more robust player journeys, extended engagement cycles, and steadier value in competitive markets. 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) - Gaming in Europe is delighted to announce that the 2026 Gaming in Germany Conference is scheduled for November 10, 2026, at the DoubleTree Hilton Ku’damm in Berlin. The Gaming in Germany Conference serves as a yearly gathering for all professionals active in Germany's regulated online gambling sector. The event's agenda will encompass a variety of subjects, such as recent regulatory shifts—most notably the review of the GlüStV 2021—as well as market expansion, responsible gaming, eSports, advertising, compliance, and other key areas. Confirmed Speakers While the 2026 Gaming in Germany Conference is still months away, we have already secured the participation of the following speakers: Dr. Jörg Hofmann, Senior Partner, Melchers Law Senior GGL representative Dr. Dirk Quermann, President DOCV Mathias Dahms, President, DSWV VP Games, ZEAL Network Prof. Dr. Christian Piska, University of Vienna Dr. Nepomuk Nothelfer, Ass. Professor, Univ. of Agder & Attorney, Melchers Law Josh Hodgson, COO, H2 Gambling Capital Willem van Oort, the founder of Gaming in Germany, stated: Following the highly successful run of our annual Gaming in Germany Conference last year, we are thrilled to be returning to Berlin in 2026. Consistent with our mission, we strive to bridge the gap between the industry and its regulatory and social stakeholders. This year's focus will include understanding the results of the ongoing evaluation of the 2021 State Gambling Treaty and its subsequent effects on Germany's regulated iGaming landscape. The Gaming in Germany Conference stands as the definitive venue for engaging with the primary decision-makers in the nation's regulated iGaming sector, offering numerous compelling reasons to join us in Berlin. Ensure you don't miss out. Please save the date! Alternatively, register now via: https://www.gamingin.eu/germany/conference2026 Call for Speakers & Sponsorship Opportunities If you wish to present your insights, success stories, innovations, or warnings, or if you are interested in exploring sponsorship possibilities, please get in touch with Willem van Oort, the founder of Gaming in Germany, at willem@gamingin.eu. Your input is valuable to us, and we eagerly await your response! 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) - RubyPlay, a content ecosystem built around studios, has boosted its standing in the regulated U.S. iGaming sector by rolling out its high-quality games in West Virginia—this marks the third state where the company has established a presence. With this latest market expansion, RubyPlay is bringing its unique game library to the Mountain State, giving major U.S. casino brands access to top-performing titles like Vegas No Limit Wins SE, Mad Hit® Diamonds, and Mad Hit® Devil. State-based operators will gain advantages from RubyPlay’s one-of-a-kind content platform, constructed using shared technology, infrastructure, and distribution networks—all tailored to meet the specific needs of each customer. Within RubyPlay’s ecosystem, market-focused studios (including xSlots) offer online casinos in West Virginia and beyond localized content, custom and exclusive games, as well as faster time-to-market for new offerings. Dima Reiderman, CCO at RubyPlay, said: Our West Virginia launch underscores RubyPlay’s continued dedication to expanding across regulated U.S. markets. Every new state entry is an opportunity to grow our commercial footprint while building partnerships with leading operators. Through our studio-driven model, we can support operators with content that aligns closely with their strategy and audience, enabling them to deliver more relevant and distinct experiences. This launch is part of RubyPlay’s ongoing U.S. expansion, following recent successful entries into New Jersey and Delaware. As the company strengthens its presence in regulated markets, the region remains a key growth focus and central to its broader commercial strategy—with further expansion into Pennsylvania expected in the near future. 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) - Nepal is taking swift action to crack down on online gambling, ordering the immediate removal of all betting apps and websites nationwide within a 24-hour timeframe. The Nepali Telecom Authority has also been directed to collaborate with local internet service providers to oversee enforcement of this directive and ensure all forms of digital gambling are deactivated. This action comes in response to a surge of unregulated gambling platforms appearing across the country. According to reports, these online gambling sites are accessible in Nepal without proper regulation or licensing, raising concerns about regulatory oversight and consumer safeguards. The decision follows the landslide election victory of newly elected Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah. Nepali authorities are adopting a tougher stance against illegal digital activities, which have been on the rise across the region, including recent efforts by the Indian government to prohibit real-money online gambling. 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) - Lottery agencies in San Juan are struggling to meet the rising demand for lottery services. This surge in activity has largely been driven by substantial jackpots in recent months, sparking fresh interest in lottery games. Despite the increase in activity, these agencies haven't managed to boost profitability or revenue growth, mainly because of escalating operational expenses. Ernesto Pérez, representative of the Chamber of Lottery Agencies (CALA), stated: Our current revenues have increased by more than 50% compared to the same period last year. The financial situation remains challenging. Despite higher revenue, our profit margins are shrinking. Industry stakeholders have also voiced concerns about increasing business costs, including utilities, rent, and other routine operational expenses, which are rising much faster than revenue growth. This presents another challenge for the sector, as the number of lottery agencies is declining. Specifically, San Juan had 440 lottery agencies four years ago, but now has only 390. The lottery industry also faces challenges from the spread of online gaming platforms. Although operating such platforms is illegal for individuals, their emergence has become a genuine threat to traditional lottery operations. Ernesto Pérez added: These platforms are prohibited in the province, yet apps continue to emerge, attracting users—particularly younger ones. We want to participate in any legal application. These developments have led to major transformations in San Juan's lottery industry overall. While jackpot prizes and promotional campaigns have driven demand growth, rising costs and technological advances are reshaping the industry's business model. 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 Kansspelautoriteit has warned several online betting firms for providing prohibited wagering options, such as bets on award recipients like MVP winners. While the regulator did not reveal any company names, it restated that only licensed operators are permitted to offer betting on match-related outcomes or final scores. Following contact from the regulator, the operators promptly eliminated the unauthorized markets. The authority asserted that all operators must continuously review their offered markets and act swiftly upon identifying any illegal options. The regulator has previously issued comparable warnings regarding wagers on athletes under 21, with operators such as bet365 and One Casino being mentioned as examples of those reprimanded for providing illegal betting options. The Kansspelautoriteit said: License holders maintain full accountability for their gaming products, even when utilizing third-party platforms or sportsbook services. Consequently, the KSA requires providers to persistently oversee their offerings and implement suitable safeguards against prohibited wagers. Should unauthorized bets still be offered, prompt corrective measures are mandatory. The KSA will persist in monitoring license holders' gaming portfolios. In another case, the authority also acted against JOI Gaming's Jacks brand for breaching advertising rules by connecting a logo on the Professional Darts Corporation's website to Jacks' online betting platform. The link was taken down following the regulator's intervention. The regulator added: Following the KSA's notification to Jacks about the infraction, the hyperlink to the online gambling site was promptly deleted. The KSA stresses that license bearers bear responsibility for adhering to gambling advertising laws and regulations. The authority verifies provider compliance and employs the most effective measures to guarantee a secure and equitable gambling environment. Collectively, the regulator affirmed it will maintain rigorous enforcement of compliance standards concerning both wagering operations and gambling promotional activities to preserve an equitable and regulated marketplace. 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 first occurrence of its kind since 2024, both Nevada's gaming statistics and Las Vegas tourism figures recorded increases during the same month. The Nevada Gaming Control Board reported that the state generated $1.24 billion in gross gaming revenue in February, a 1.5% rise year-over-year. The Las Vegas Strip remained relatively flat year-over-year at $696.2 million, with the market virtually unchanged (-0.9%) for the fiscal year to date. Consistent with this trend, Clark County and the state as a whole are also within 1% of last year's figures. Las Vegas's first monthly tourism rise in at least 15 months supported Nevada's stable gaming performance. The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority reported 3.03 million visitors in February, a 2% year-over-year increase. On the Strip, revenue per available room and average daily rates rose by 6% and 4%, respectively. Stakeholders found these results encouraging, although air traffic saw a slight decline. Total passenger volume at Harry Reid International Airport dropped by 3% last month, influenced by a 10% decrease in international travel. Budget carrier Spirit's bankruptcy caused its traffic to plummet 72% year-over-year, while leading Canadian airlines WestJet and Air Canada experienced drops of over 20%. Regarding employment, Nevada's Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation has not issued any monthly reports this year. An agency spokesperson informed iGB that the January report is set to be released in April. Baccarat surges as Super Bowl betting falters in February A deeper dive into the gaming numbers shows the Strip was supported by a spike in baccarat, a game that often dictates its monthly success. In February, the Strip won $119.9 million from baccarat, up 37% from the previous year. Favored by high-rollers, baccarat typically commands the highest average bets, creating significant volatility. While the Strip is down 21% on the game over the last three months, the 12-month result (-3%) is much more favorable. Taking a wider view, nearly all other markets monitored by the NGCB posted gains for the month. Reno reported a 7% year-over-year increase to $60.6 million and is having a strong fiscal year so far (+4.5%). Both Boulder City ($77 million, +3.5%) and the Las Vegas locals market ($148 million, +3%) saw positive results, while downtown Las Vegas ($69.8 million, -4%) lagged noticeably. On the sports betting front, Super Bowl LX was tough on Nevada sportsbooks. The state reported total sports betting GGR of $35.3 million, a 14% decline from last year. Football betting GGR fell nearly 70% year-over-year to just $4.3 million. The Strip accounted for $15.3 million of that GGR and $2.9 million from football. The total Super Bowl handle was $133.8 million, the lowest in at least a decade. These drops may be partly linked to sports event contracts on prediction markets. Nevada failed to stop Kalshi from offering Super Bowl contracts initially but has since obtained a temporary restraining order against the platform. Kalshi has been compelled to block Nevada users from trading sports, entertainment, and election contracts until its next hearing on April 3 in federal appeals court. First-quarter earnings season approaching As the first quarter of 2026 winds down, Las Vegas operators will soon face analyst scrutiny again after a largely difficult 2025. The Strip's "Big 3"—Wynn, MGM, and Caesars—all faced pressure on their Las Vegas operations last year to varying extents. Caesars has struggled in particular, and rumors of a potential sale are growing. Meanwhile, locals-focused operators like Boyd and Red Rock have thrived as value-seeking customers gravitate toward lower prices. In a Friday note to investors, Macquarie analyst Chad Beynon noted that the positive data has turned Q1 earnings estimates "to the upside for Vegas segments". “We still expect luxury properties to lead, preferring WYNN over MGM/CZR,” Beynon stated. “While the long-term Vegas story remains valid, we are concerned that softness in leisure and international travel will continue this year following three years of post-Covid gains (which led us to rank Vegas as our least preferred Gaming sector in our '26 Gaming Primer).” However, the robust performance off the Strip led Beynon to “believe [Red Rock] and [Boyd] are set to beat current 1Q26E consensus for their retail segments”. Jess MarquezJess has reported on the global gaming industry since 2022. A Reno, Nevada native, he wants to emphasize that it’s pronounced 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) - Taking place from May 18-20 at the Novotel Madrid Center, the AffPapa Conference Madrid 2026 calls upon industry experts to gather in Spain's capital for two days filled with dialogue, industry insights, and extensive networking driven by affiliates. The schedule features a robust lineup of panel discussions, networking chances, and various side events, all curated to unite affiliates, operators, and B2B suppliers. Discover what awaits you at the AffPapa Conference Madrid 2026. May 18: Pre-conference events To enhance the experience beyond the main exhibition area, the AffPapa Conference Madrid kicks off with a full day of side activities aimed at gathering attendees prior to the start of the hectic conference schedule. These activities include: Running Club sponsored by Hybrid Interaction Padel tournament sponsored by Bazoom Guided tour of the Santiago Bernabéu and Real Madrid Museum sponsored by JoinAff The evening prior to the conference will wind down with an Opening Networking Event, offering beverages and a casual atmosphere for networking before the main proceedings commence. May 19-20: Discussions, workshops, and further networking opportunities Across the two days, the AffPapa Conference Madrid schedule provides a variety of interactive engagements focused on sharing insights and networking, such as: Panel discussions addressing current trends in affiliate marketing and iGaming. An AI Workshop hosted by createIT. Speed-dating sessions featuring one-minute rotations to link affiliates with operators. Networking drinks following the conclusion of each conference day. To ensure the highest practical value for participants, the panels concentrate on the most pertinent subjects in iGaming currently, spanning business strategy, collaborations between operators and affiliates, regulatory issues, market movements, blockchain, cryptocurrency, NFTs, the Spanish iGaming sector, and additional topics. Additionally, the schedule includes a practical AI workshop centered on automation and operational efficiency, tailored for iGaming specialists seeking tangible methods to utilize AI and automation to achieve genuine operational outcomes. This year, exhibitors at the AffPapa Conference Madrid will also have the choice to display their brands via fully customizable stands or opt for a standard booth created by AffPapa. AffPapa iGaming Awards The final day of the conference will culminate in the AffPapa iGaming Awards 2026, which will highlight its unique theme “The Test of Time” and four newly launched exclusive categories. To celebrate the conclusion of the largest edition of the AffPapa Conference thus far, anticipated to draw more than 1,500 participants, the flagship event will finish with an official closing party, headlined by international EDM DJ and producer Kryoman. The schedule is regularly updated on the official AffPapa Conference Madrid website, where visitors can view the complete program, secure their place, and investigate sponsorship possibilities. 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 Norwegian government has introduced a detailed four-year strategy designed to prevent and address problem gambling. Launched on Friday and spanning from 2026 to 2029, the plan brings together coordinated prevention efforts, improved treatment options, and a broader research initiative. These measures are distinctly non-regulatory. Their focus will be on improving public awareness, boosting treatment availability, and establishing a stronger evidence foundation, instead of changing laws related to gambling access, age limits, or betting caps. According to the government, the primary objective of the action plan is to reduce the number of people who develop gambling-related issues. Officials emphasized that safeguarding at-risk individuals must be prioritized ahead of commercial concerns. Children and young adults between the ages of 9 and 25 were designated as the main target group. Research has connected individuals aged 12 to 17, in particular, to gambling-like activities such as using loot boxes and skins in video games. Additional groups were also highlighted. The programme will also focus on athletes, incarcerated individuals, people with neurodevelopmental conditions, those not in education or employment, and individuals with a history of gambling problems. Preventions for child gambling Central prevention strategies in the programme involve outreach to schools and clubs for young people, alongside digital campaigns and advice for adults. The action plan assigned specific roles to key agencies: Lotteritilsynet (Gambling Authority), Medietilsynet (Media Authority), and Helsedirektoratet (Directorate of Health). The Norwegian Film Institute and various volunteer organizations will collaborate on initiatives related to gaming culture and support services. Educational initiatives for schools, youth clubs, and sports clubs will be implemented to help young people recognize gambling-like features in digital games. Prevention materials will be disseminated through popular youth-oriented online portals like ung.no and snakkomspill.no, as well as social media. This includes specific campaigns for 16 to 25-year-olds about the risks and legalities of gambling. Resources and training for spotting early indicators of gambling harm will be provided to parents, educators, coaches, healthcare workers, probation and prison officers, employers, and bank staff. The plan also gave priority to upgrading existing easily accessible services. This involves expanding Hjelpelinjen, Norway's gambling helpline, with better access features such as chat functions designed for younger users. It will also maintain the provision of free, remote, usually 12-week telephone treatment programmes that can be accessed without a referral from a general practitioner. The strategy will be aligned with Norway's wider digital youth policies, which include recent screen-time advice and plans targeting addiction and suicide prevention. This reinforces the government's approach to gambling harm as a key public health and consumer protection issue. Prison system focus The government announced it would pursue better national coordination by incorporating gambling harm more significantly into broader public health structures. Communication between the Directorate of Health and regional competence centres (KORUS) will be strengthened to improve access to municipal and local services. The plan pledged to increase awareness among crucial public service personnel, including prison staff and healthcare providers, to equip them with the skills to recognize and address gambling problems among inmates, who often build up debts while in custody. Continuous data collection will persist, featuring regular surveys on gambling and gaming participation conducted by Lotteritilsynet and Medietilsynet, as well as a new nationwide survey dedicated specifically to gambling and gaming issues. Furthermore, the plan promoted cooperation with licensed gambling operators through an annual forum to strengthen responsible gaming commitments. Significantly, collaboration with banks and financial institutions will be enhanced to restrict financial transactions to unlicensed foreign gambling operators. Front-line bank employees may get training to recognize customers showing potential signs of gambling-related harm. The monopoly problem This increased emphasis on prevention and public health occurs as state-owned operator Norsk Tipping, which holds a monopoly on regulated online gambling in Norway, faces greater examination. Recent events have cast doubt on the strength of its systems and player protection measures. These include a technical fault that resulted in wrong lottery payouts and a separate Eurojackpot incident that revealed flaws in internal controls, leading to regulatory scrutiny and fines. Furthermore, worries have been expressed regarding development and operational standards, with reports pointing out deficiencies in the performance and user experience of Norsk Tipping's platform. These events have fueled the discussion about whether Norway's monopoly system is robust enough to achieve its consumer protection goals. 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) - Kalshi's entry into Brazil has ignited discussion about how prediction markets specifically fit within the nation's developing market landscape and its significant political influence. Industry professionals have raised questions about whether regulation would fall under the SPA's financial market jurisdictions. Others are asking if regulatory action is urgent or if more time is needed for careful implementation. Earlier this month, Kalshi revealed the launch of its prediction market services in Brazil, facilitated by a partnership with Brazilian brokerage firm XP International. Brazil marks Kalshi's first market outside the US, where prediction markets have generated substantial controversy, with ongoing legal challenges from state gambling regulators. The overlap between financial trading and gambling has created uncertainty within Brazil's emerging fixed-odds betting sector, which is already under significant pressure from politicians aiming to strengthen regulations and increase taxes. Brazil's betting regulator, the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA), stated it is "monitoring the situation" following Kalshi's launch. It also noted that no Brazilian companies are currently authorized to provide prediction markets. Fragmented regulatory outlook It remains unclear which entity will ultimately regulate prediction markets, with many speculating it could fall under either the SPA or the Brazilian Securities Commission (CVM). However, Udo Seckelmann, partner and head of gambling & crypto at Bichara e Motta Advogados, suggests regulation might be divided among three entities based on the type of contract being traded. He believes this could be detrimental to the market. "There are multiple potential resolutions to this legal puzzle," Seckelmann tells iGB. "It's reasonable to anticipate that sports-related contracts would generally fall under the SPA's jurisdiction, while those tied to economic and financial variables would come under the CVM's regulatory purview. "Electoral contracts would likely be banned by the Superior Electoral Court (TSE), while geopolitical, social, cultural, or entertainment events would stay in a legal gray area—at least until further regulatory clarity is achieved," he adds. Regulation of prediction markets is complex While there is widespread agreement that prediction markets will eventually need regulation, there is less alignment on when this should happen. From the perspective of Fellipe Fraga, CBO of licensed Brazilian operator EstrelaBet, it's crucial that regulation isn't hurried without first gaining a genuine understanding of prediction markets. He hopes policymakers will first develop a clear grasp of operators like Kalshi and how their offerings differ from fixed-odds betting. "Hasty or ill-aligned regulation could result in overlaps, inconsistencies, or even unintended restrictions," Fraga states. "The focus should be on a well-informed, collaborative process that involves regulators, operators, and experts to create a framework that is both effective and balanced." The Brazilian Institute of Responsible Gaming (IBJR) has argued that prediction markets should comply with fixed-odds betting laws. While Seckelmann notes that addressing the regulatory issue sooner is better, he also advocates for a cautious, deliberate approach to avoid forcing prediction markets into existing frameworks. "It may be better to introduce regulation later if it is properly tailored to the socioeconomic nature of prediction markets, rather than automatically and rigidly classifying them under traditional regulatory frameworks that don't adequately account for their unique features," he explains. Are prediction markets direct competition to betting? A critical question for the industry is whether prediction markets directly compete with licensed betting operators. Fraga clarifies that fixed-odds betting and prediction markets are "structurally distinct," with the former mainly involving a direct relationship between the operator and the customer, while the latter's pricing and liquidity are market-driven. However, he believes there could be convergence leading to "competitive overlap." Fraga again emphasizes the need for carefully considered regulation to clearly distinguish between the two products. Another source of frustration for operators is taxation, as fixed-odds betting licensees face significant tax burdens and a BRL30 million license fee. But Fraga believes the inherent differences between betting and prediction markets make direct tax comparisons difficult. "The economic rationale is distinct, so fiscal treatment can't be directly mirrored," Fraga continues. "However, other key factors must be considered, especially regarding responsible gaming, consumer protection, and market integrity. "If there's a significant shift of users from regulated operators to alternative platforms not bound by the same obligations, this could create an imbalance. Moreover, less regulated environments often have more marketing flexibility, which can further skew competition." Despite the controversy and uncertainty, Fraga maintains a positive outlook, noting that a rapidly growing company like Kalshi is expanding beyond the US with Brazil as its first market. "Whenever a new technological or financial product enters Brazil, it's always a positive sign," Fraga concludes. "It underscores the country's appeal and the potential of our market across various industries." 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) - BoscaSports, the Irish technology firm revolutionizing live betting information for racecourses and betting operators globally, has finalized its acquisition of UK-based 2DB, an integrated video streaming and data solutions business specializing in digital display technology. This transaction positions the combined entity as a leading provider of LBO display technology, video streaming, and data-driven distribution services in the market. The acquisition received support through a loan facility from Allied Irish Bank (AIB), signifying strong confidence in BoscaSports’ performance, strategy, and long-term potential. Eugene Mitchell, CEO of BoscaSports, said: This acquisition is truly transformative for BoscaSports. Merging our strengths with 2DB’s integrated video streaming and data solutions greatly improves our technological foundation, broadens our distribution footprint, and boosts the value we can provide to racecourses, operators, and bettors globally. We are proud to represent an Irish tech success story and appreciate the backing from AIB and Racecourse Media Group (RMG) as we move into this next stage of expansion. RMG, a minority investor in BoscaSports since its inception, has increased its investment to facilitate the deal and ensure the company has ample resources for future innovation. Nick Mills, CEO of Racecourse Media Group, said: BoscaSports has been a dependable partner from the very start, and we are pleased to endorse this acquisition. Ensuring the durability of our investment and enabling BoscaSports to offer long-term, leading-edge solutions is vital for the entire racing industry and enhances shareholder value for our racecourses. 2DB is a UK-based software expert, delivering integrated video streaming and real-time data solutions that drive digital display systems throughout the gaming industry. The company is highly regarded by major international brands for its dependability, technical proficiency, and extensive experience. Steve Boffo, Managing Director of 2DB Ltd, said: We are thrilled to announce that 2DB has been acquired by BoscaSports. This represents an ideal cultural and strategic alignment, and we are prepared to move forward swiftly for the benefit of our team and our customers. The incorporation of 2DB will result in a doubling of BoscaSports’ team, allowing the company to speed up product development, broaden its international presence, and further improve video, data, and display solutions across on-course, retail, and online betting platforms. Pat Horgan, Head of Business Banking, Capital Markets, AIB, said: At AIB, we take pride in backing Ireland’s homegrown technology companies as they expand globally. Their innovation stimulates economic growth, generates high-value employment, and solidifies Ireland’s standing as a prominent global technology hub. Bosca Technologies perfectly illustrates this ambition, demonstrating how pioneering innovation, robust strategic alliances, and a global outlook can lead to success on the international stage. BoscaSports presently supplies live betting data to retail displays at all 86 racecourses throughout the UK and Ireland, and the Group will now extend its operations to 12 countries, including Italy, Sri Lanka, Cyprus, Malta, Morocco, and the UAE. The consolidated client roster in the UK and Ireland now encompasses leading operators like Flutter’s brands, such as Paddy Power, alongside Entain, Britbet, William Hill, Boyle Sports, UK Tote, Tote Ireland, and the independent sector. Furthermore, the company has secured several notable new contracts over the past year, involving Abu Dhabi Turf Club/Momentum, MST (Italy), SOREC in Morocco, Ascot Racecourse, and BetMakers/Greyhound Racing Ireland. BoscaSports’ revenue saw an approximate 40% increase in the last 12 months, highlighting the robustness of its technology and its lucrative, expandable business model. 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.