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(AsiaGameHub) -   The 2026 Maryland legislative session concluded without enacting a prohibition on sweepstakes casinos. Although the House of Delegates supported two pieces of legislation aimed at dual-currency casino-style games, the Senate did not act on them. Consequently, these proposals expired when the session adjourned. Good to Know Two bills opposing sweepstakes were passed by Maryland House legislators Both measures failed because the Senate did not hold a vote Legislation for real-money online casinos also stalled Sweepstakes operators received a reprieve in Maryland, though the conflict over their operations has not subsided. Time simply ran out for lawmakers. While two bills targeting online dual-currency casino games passed the House with significant bipartisan backing, neither was brought to a vote in the Senate before the April adjournment. As a result, despite having clear support in one chamber, no prohibition was enacted into law. Regulators were eager to see those bills passed. State gaming authorities stated they required more robust enforcement mechanisms to deal with the hundreds of unlicensed websites active in Maryland. Although the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Commission had issued numerous cease-and-desist letters, officials reported that only approximately 25% of the operators complied.Industry groups resisted the legislation and secured a temporary victory. The Social Gaming Leadership Alliance contended that the sweepstakes model does not violate Maryland law, citing that users can either play for free or purchase a separate currency for sweepstakes gameplay. Operators likened this structure to the McDonald’s Monopoly Sweepstakes, distinguishing it from illegal gambling. “SGLA is satisfied that neither (bill) was enacted into law in Maryland,” stated Sean Ostrow, managing director of SGLA, in a comment given to iGaming.org. “Although the drive to eliminate illegal gambling is praiseworthy, these two bills targeted more than just illicit operators and would have punished responsible Social Plus companies that provide robust consumer safeguards and support the Maryland economy. “In the end, we aim to collaborate with Maryland legislators and agencies to regulate Social Plus, ensure consumer safety, and produce tax revenue, and we anticipate engaging in these constructive discussions during the 2027 Maryland legislative session.”This outcome also reflects a broader trend in Maryland. The state failed to make significant progress on real-money online casino legislation as well. Resistance has emerged from both political parties, as well as from gaming stakeholders who contend that online casinos could diminish tax revenue and lead to job losses. Fears regarding gambling addiction also continue to fuel this opposition too. 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 upgrade offers sportsbooks proprietary, model-based WNBA player prop pricing via the OpticOdds API. OpticOdds, a leading provider of live sports betting data and trading tools, has improved its WNBA services through a partnership with The Crowd’s Line AI (TCL AI). This collaboration introduces a real-time, AI-powered player prop pricing tool through the OpticOdds API. This tool generates WNBA player prop lines using TCL AI’s proprietary models, avoiding reliance on market averages or consensus data. This independent approach provides a distinct signal, helping sportsbooks provide unique WNBA betting options. Every player prop includes complete probability distributions and confidence-weighted vig. This allows operators to improve risk management, direct activity toward high-confidence markets, and set prices for alternate lines more accurately. The system integrates TCL AI’s machine-learning technology with OpticOdds’ API and trading framework. This integration allows users to find fair value prices, spot line discrepancies, and launch WNBA player props with little manual effort. This development mirrors the growth of the WNBA betting sector, where rising fan engagement and compelling player stories are fueling the need for more complex wagering options before the new season begins. The improved WNBA pricing system expands on OpticOdds’ current platform, enhancing its AI-powered pricing tools. Ryan Weinstock, Vice President at OpticOdds, stated: “Partnering with The Crowd’s Line AI to provide model-based WNBA pricing via our API highlights our commitment to delivering sophisticated, professional-grade data to emerging sports betting sectors. “This improvement enables us to expand a unique product, leveraging our technology to assist sportsbooks in launching premium WNBA player prop markets with speed and ease.” Anthony Lage, CEO at The Crowd’s Line, commented: “Our ongoing work with OpticOdds allows us to provide unique WNBA player prop pricing on a large scale, helping sportsbooks gain new customers and boost profitability with low operational overhead. “OpticOdds ensures a smooth integration, permitting partners to act swiftly and with certainty in one of the most rapidly expanding sports betting arenas.” 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) -   Vegangster has broadened its collaboration with Shared Luck through the implementation of JackpotX, a player-funded jackpot network now active on five of its client brands. Initial data indicates an approximate 25% average opt-in rate, as players actively select to participate using a straightforward toggle switch. In these implementations, JackpotX operates as a player-funded mechanism, where a small part of each player's activity feeds into a communal prize pool. This generates an ever-increasing jackpot that operates concurrently with regular play, introducing a constant incentive to bet without disrupting the primary game. This approach differs from conventional fixed or operator-funded jackpots by scaling directly with player engagement. The more players join, the larger the prize becomes, which in turn enhances its prominence and player involvement. For casino operators, the integration adds a powerful retention and revenue tool directly linked to player traffic. Since the jackpot is financed by gameplay itself, it lessens the need for significant upfront marketing investment while still fostering a compelling cycle of engagement. Michael Oziransky, Chief Product Officer at Vegangster, commented: “The key advantage of JackpotX is its adaptability. Operators can manage jackpots across multiple brands and customize their functionality, all with access to real-time data. This enabled us to adopt a player-funded model that enhances engagement without requiring extra budget from the operator.” The integration demands little ongoing operational effort and can be rolled out across different brands easily, enabling operators to rapidly launch engagement features powered by jackpots. With JackpotX now operational and expanding, Vegangster and Shared Luck intend to deepen their partnership, concentrating on more advanced gamification features and a broader deployment throughout Vegangster's client network. About SharedLuck SharedLuck develops engagement infrastructure for the online casino industry. Its flagship product, JackpotX, offers versatile jackpot setup, management for multiple brands, live analytics, and tools designed to improve player retention and boost total casino earnings. About Vegangster Vegangster delivers a comprehensive iGaming platform built for high performance, scalability, and operator autonomy. Its all-in-one, white-label, and sweepstakes solutions combine casino and sports betting content, payment processing, CRM, compliance, and social functionalities into a unified, mobile-focused system. Vegangster empowers operators to enter the market swiftly and expand reliably. Press contact Romans Kozlovskis Senior Content & PR Manager r.kozlovskis@vegangster.com 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 N1 SEO Traffic Cup, the inaugural tournament within the N1 Traffic Cups series presented by N1 Partners, is approaching its conclusion, with April 30 marking the final day of the promotion. More than 250 teams are actively directing traffic to N1 Partners brands, and the opportunity to win is open to everyone, regardless of when they joined the competition. Securing the main rewards is entirely achievable, as final standings are determined by team efficiency, with no limit on the number of winning positions. All participants who reach one of the four prize tiers will receive an award, emphasizing the importance of enhancing performance metrics. Discover strategies to improve your current standing within the remaining two weeks, or join the competition effectively even at this late stage! Expert Advice for Driving Traffic in the N1 SEO Traffic Cup Continuous improvement of results is always possible, especially with access to up-to-date analytics. The N1 Partners team has facilitated this by sharing insights from SEO specialists: Optimal iGaming SEO Strategies Currently, traditional SEO listings featuring offerwalls, cross-brand SEO, and parasite SEO tactics across multiple Tier-1 GEOs are demonstrating strong performance. Top N1 Partners Products for SEO Traffic Products exhibiting excellent conversion rates and stability include HollyWin, Slot Mafia, Lucky Hunter, RollXO, and Slot Lounge. Leading GEOs for SEO Traffic Markets such as Australia, Germany, Canada, Austria, Switzerland, New Zealand, and Norway are yielding significant results and are popular among N1 SEO Traffic Cup participants. These regions boast a broad, solvent audience, enabling both high traffic volumes and substantial average check values. Have you identified your target GEO and strategy? Register on the N1 SEO Traffic Cup landing page and aim for the top of the leaderboard! N1 SEO Traffic Cup: Frequently Asked Questions for Late Entrants The N1 Partners team recognizes that joining later can seem daunting, so they have compiled common affiliate queries and provided practical guidance. Where should a new affiliate begin to maximize their impact in the initial 48 hours? “For affiliates joining in the final two weeks, the key to success is focus. I recommend immediately concentrating on familiar GEOs and brands to secure the first FTDs as quickly as possible. The subsequent step involves assessing your capacity to manage multiple brands. In the N1 SEO Traffic Cup, the number of brands directly influences the Brand Coefficient and overall performance. Naturally, collaborating with your affiliate manager from the outset is crucial for establishing the most direct path to initial results. There isn't a single fixed prize; affiliates can achieve any reward level. Even if an affiliate doesn't reach a specific tier, generating a minimum of 20 FTDs on at least one brand qualifies them for the prize draw. This ensures there are no losers, and participation is viable at any point,” states Alexa Bond, Head of Affiliates at N1 Partners. What common errors do participants make when attempting to accelerate their efforts before the final deadline? “The most frequent mistake is attempting rapid scaling by exploring new GEOs and strategies where the team lacks expertise. This typically results in inefficient resource allocation, reduced quality, and increased expenditure. In the worst-case scenario, campaigns may be halted. At this final stage, it is far more important to maintain focus on stable traffic sources and further optimize existing strategies rather than experimenting with new directions,” explains Dmitry Filippov, Affiliate Team Lead (SEO) at N1 Partners. Join the N1 SEO Traffic Cup — two weeks is sufficient to win! N1 SEO Traffic Cup: Understanding the Conditions Period: March 1 – April 30, 2026 Results: by May 10 Entry: from 20 FTD per brand The process is straightforward: you earn points (N1 Cup Score) based on generated FTDs, which are then multiplied by the brand coefficient. The more brands you engage with, the higher your multiplier and the faster your results will grow: 1 brand — x1 2–3 brands — x2 4+ brands — x5 This mechanism allows for not only scaling traffic volumes but also accelerating growth by directing traffic to multiple products. Find out more about the conditions and rewards here! N1 Partners is a multi-brand affiliate program offering: 14+ casino and sportsbook brands with Reg2Dep up to 70% 10+ Tier-1 GEOs CPA up to €700 and RevShare up to 45% + NNCO for top partners + hybrid models Be number one with N1! 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 night, Team Vitality emerged victorious in the IEM Rio grand final, defeating Team Spirit with a clean 3-0 sweep. This win marks the organization's fourth championship of the 2026 season and earns them a second straight ESL Grand Slam. According to the team, this achievement establishes their Counter-Strike squad as the first ever to secure consecutive ESL Grand Slams. The Rio triumph followed earlier ESL competition wins at IEM Dallas 2025, ESL Pro League 2025, and IEM Kraków 2026, finalizing the Grand Slam requirement and granting a $1,000,000 bonus. The IEM Rio event, which included 16 teams, was held before a live audience in Brazil. Vitality's lineup—consisting of Dan "apEX" Madesclaire, Mathieu "ZywOo" Herbaut, Robin "ropz" Kool, William "mezii" Merriman, and Shahar "flameZ" Shushan—progressed through the playoffs with 2-0 victories over NAVI and FURIA, despite losing one map earlier in the event to G2. Vitality announced that Herbaut received the tournament's Most Valuable Player award. The organization also stated that Kool is now the first player to win three ESL Grand Slam titles in a row, noting his prior Grand Slam victory with FaZe Clan in Season 4. “We are maintaining the high standards set in 2025 throughout 2026, accumulating wins. During this tournament, I observed a team having fun and competing not just for victory, but with the goal of making history by becoming the sole organization to secure two ESL Grand Slams. It is important to note that merely five teams have ever won one, underscoring the magnitude of this accomplishment,” explains Fabien “Neo” Devide, co-founder of Team Vitality. “This is a defining moment for these remarkable players and the club's heritage. They are positioning Team Vitality as not just the top CS2 club globally, but potentially among the finest ever. We are in a remarkable period. We must remain grounded and savor it.” 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) -   Golden Whale and Text.com have entered a partnership to combine Golden Whale’s decision intelligence models with Text.com’s unified communications platform, according to the two companies. As part of the agreement, Golden Whale’s self-improving models— which analyze real-time player behavior data— will feed into Text.com’s multi-channel infrastructure, allowing operators to send messages via live chat, messaging apps, email, and SMS, the companies stated. Golden Whale noted that the integration is designed to support a closed-loop workflow where prediction, decision-making, and message delivery are connected, shifting operators from campaign-based messaging to agent-led interactions. Eberhard Dürrschmid, CEO at Golden Whale, said: “Historically, there has been a gap between knowing what action to take and delivering it to players in the right way and at the optimal moment. By collaborating with Text.com, we are closing that gap. Our ML models identify the most relevant next action, and through Text.com’s agentic communication capabilities, that action can be executed instantly and intelligently across the appropriate channel. This enables operators to move toward more responsive, data-driven engagement without increasing operational complexity.” Emilia Wodyk‑Zalewska, Account Managers Leader at Text, added: “This is just the start of our journey with Golden Whale, and we are excited about the future. By merging behavioral data with our platform, we will turn simple messages into smart, automated conversations. Soon, operators will deliver the right interaction at the perfect time—effortlessly and at any scale.” 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) -   Nvidia has unveiled Nemotron 3 Super, a new open-access AI model engineered to operate faster and process extremely lengthy prompts. The company is targeting this offering at developers building AI agents, a use case where costs can rise sharply when models need to complete multi-step reasoning tasks. Good to Know According to Nvidia, Nemotron 3 Super delivers up to 7.5 times greater throughput compared to Qwen3.5 122B A10B. This model supports context windows as large as 1 million tokens. Nvidia has made both the model and its associated training resources openly accessible to the public. Engineered for Speed and Lengthy Input Processing Nemotron 3 Super does not activate its full set of parameters every time it generates a response. Instead, it adopts a Mixture of Experts design, where only a portion of the model is switched on for each individual task. Nvidia states this design helps cut inference costs and makes the model more practical for AI agents that typically consume large volumes of tokens during operation. Across its 88 total layers, the model combines both Mamba and Transformer layers. In simple terms, one layer type helps it process very long inputs more efficiently, while the other preserves its response accuracy. Nvidia says this configuration gives the model a native context window of up to 1 million tokens. Nvidia has also integrated a routing system called LatentMoE. It directs each task to a small subset of expert modules inside the model instead of activating the entire system. Per Nvidia's claims, this enables higher levels of specialization without driving up inference costs in the way standard MoE systems do. The company says under its specified test setup, Nemotron 3 Super delivers 2.2 times the throughput of GPT OSS 120B and 7.5 times the throughput of Qwen3.5 122B A10B. Nvidia also notes it offers over 5 times higher throughput and up to double the accuracy of the previous Nemotron Super version. The model was trained on 25 trillion tokens, followed by an additional training phase using 51 billion tokens to extend its context length to 1 million tokens. Nvidia then applied supervised fine-tuning and reinforcement learning techniques to improve its overall performance. Benchmark results for the model were also strong. Nvidia reports scores of 83.73 on MMLU Pro, 90.21 on AIME25, 60.47 on SWE Bench with OpenHands, 85.6% on PinchBench, and 91.64 on RULER 1M. The model also powers Nvidia AI Q, a research agent that claimed the top position on the Deepresearch Bench leaderboard. Nvidia trained the model using NVFP4, a format developed specifically for Blackwell GPUs. When running on B200 hardware, the company says inference speeds can reach up to 4 times faster than FP8 format running on H100 GPUs, with no reported drop in accuracy. Nemotron 3 Super is available under the Nvidia Nemotron Open Model License. Developers can access its checkpoints in BF16, FP8, and NVFP4 formats on Hugging Face. Nvidia also supports inference via Nvidia NIM, build.nvidia.com, Perplexity, Openrouter, Together AI, Google Cloud, AWS, Azure, Coreweave, Dell Enterprise Hub, and HPE. Additional guides and implementation resources are available through NeMo. 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 PC and Console Gaming Report 2026, released by Newzoo, highlights a significant trend in Western markets. On PC, revenue generated by games outside the top 20 chart leaders has surpassed that of the leading titles, and players are also dedicating more time to these less prominent games. Key Takeaways In Western markets, games ranked 21 and below accounted for 56% of PC revenue in 2025, an increase from 48%. Playtime for games outside the Top 20 saw a 44% increase, while overall PC playtime grew by 14%. On Xbox, Game Pass significantly influences player engagement, whereas PlayStation's engagement is more driven by major exclusive catalog titles. PC Gaming Environment Fosters Broader Success More than half of PC gaming revenue in Western markets now originates from titles not among the Top 20. This finding from Newzoo signals a notable shift in the industry's direction. While major hits continue to be important, the segment of games just below the top tier is gaining substantial commercial influence. Tianyi Gu, manager of market analysis at Newzoo, explained the situation: “On PC, the space below the Top 20 is becoming more economically meaningful. That doesn’t make the market unconcentrated, but it does make games below the very top more commercially relevant than before.”This trend extends beyond sales figures, also reflecting in player engagement. Newzoo reports that playtime for games ranked 21 and lower surged by 44% in 2025. During the same period, total PC playtime increased by 14%, while playtime for Top 20 games remained stable or slightly declined. This indicates that players are not only purchasing more games from outside the top tier but are also investing more time in them. Certain game genres appear to be benefiting disproportionately. Enduring catalog titles such as Cyberpunk 2077, Elden Ring, and Skyrim continue to attract players. Survival games and action RPGs also align with this pattern, largely due to ongoing updates, balancing adjustments, and long-term support that maintain their relevance post-launch. Rust, DayZ, and Path of Exile 2 are notable examples in this category. Newer releases are also experiencing a more extended period of engagement than in the past. Newzoo points to REPO and Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 as games that maintained steady sales after dropping from bestseller lists. This is significant as the sharp decline in sales immediately after launch appears to be lessening. A larger segment of players seems content to wait for discounts, patches, or sufficient free time to engage with games later. Console gaming trends present a different picture. On PlayStation, older titles must compete for player attention against annual sports games, which consistently capture engagement even outside the top ranks. When PlayStation players revisit older releases, they tend to favor high-profile exclusives like God of War Ragnarök, Ghost of Tsushima, Spider Man 2, and The Last of Us Part 2.Xbox exhibits yet another distinct pattern. According to Newzoo, playtime on Xbox closely correlates with a game's inclusion in Game Pass. New free-to-play titles constitute less than 1% of playtime on Xbox, suggesting that many players on this platform remain focused on the subscription library they already access. Over two decades ago, Chris Anderson posited in Wired that PC gaming was well-positioned to capitalize on the "long tail," partly due to nostalgia and older software finding new life on modern hardware. This prediction appears even more pertinent today. While PC gaming continues to accommodate blockbusters, the distribution of revenue and player time is broadening, offering publishers, live service developers, and catalog owners expanded 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) -   Bitcoin declined on April 19 as traders responded to an escalated geopolitical risk landscape. Iran backed out of a planned second round of negotiations with the U.S., and the crypto market promptly gave up some of its recent recovery gains. Good to Know Over a 24-hour period, Bitcoin dropped approximately 2% and hit around $73,820 on CoinMarketCap. Iran stated it would not proceed with further talks, citing excessive U.S. demands, conflicting signals, and naval pressure in the Strait of Hormuz. Traders are currently monitoring support levels between $70,500 and $71,000, as well as resistance near $75,000. Bitcoin Retracts as Iran-Related Risks Resurface BTC moved out of the $74,000-$77,000 range it had maintained during recent consolidation, wiping billions off the total crypto market capitalization. As of 8:30 p.m. ET, Bitcoin was still attempting to hold above the $74,000 mark. Tension mounted after Iranian state media confirmed that Tehran had pulled out of a scheduled second negotiation session. Iranian officials highlighted what they described as overly demanding U.S. terms, conflicting stances, and a continuing U.S. naval presence in the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait of Hormuz is still among the world’s most critical oil shipping lanes, so any disruption there can quickly impact energy prices and investor risk appetite. Cryptocurrencies have closely followed such geopolitical signals in early 2026, and Bitcoin was no exception this time.Earlier this month, negotiations held in Islamabad on April 11 and 12 lasted over 21 hours without resulting in a ceasefire or nuclear agreement. JD Vance later noted that Iran had rejected U.S. terms, while Iranian officials characterized the meeting as preliminary. In mid-April, markets had temporarily shifted direction after Donald Trump mentioned that Iran had discreetly sought further dialogue. This helped push Bitcoin back toward $76,000. However, Saturday saw a reversal: Iran turned down additional talks, and the relief rally dissipated. From a technical analysis perspective, support levels are now around $70,500 to $71,000, with resistance near $75,000. BTC has tested the $76,000 level multiple times in recent weeks but hasn’t been able to sustain gains above it, leaving traders focused on whether buyers can protect current price levels. Trump increased the pressure with a Sunday warning to Iran, stating he no longer intends to be “Mr. Nice Guy.” Markets are now awaiting any official U.S. response, new diplomatic initiatives supported by Pakistan, and any further disruptions related to the Strait of Hormuz. 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) -   CoinPoker is set to host its largest-ever tournament series, the World Poker Masters, from May 3rd to June 1st. The festival features a massive $25,000,000 in guaranteed prize money, headlined by a $2,500,000 Main Event, a $500,000 Mini Main Event, and an additional $500,000 allocated for leaderboard prizes. Good to Know The World Poker Masters takes place from May 3 to June 1, 2026. The entire schedule boasts $25,000,000 in guaranteed prize pools. Qualification is available via Warm Up satellites running from April 26 to May 2. CoinPoker Loads Up a Bigger Tournament Schedule CoinPoker is launching a four-week online poker festival centered on substantial guarantees and non-stop action for all stake levels. The premier attraction is the $530 Main Event, which features a record-breaking $2,500,000 guarantee for the platform. The schedule also includes enhanced CoinMasters events, the CoinMillion tournament, high rollers, and a $55 Mini Main Event with a $500,000 guarantee. The Main Event will follow a multi-flight structure. Day 1 flights are scheduled for each Sunday of the series, with a final Day 1E on May 31st. Players who survive will progress to Day 2 on June 1st. Participants are permitted to enter more than one starting flight, but only their largest stack will carry forward. Additional marquee tournaments complete the lineup. The CoinMillion event has a $215 buy-in and a $1,000,000 guarantee spread over two days. The $1,500 CoinMasters BITCOIN High Roller also guarantees $1,000,000 and will award the winner a physical CoinMasters Coin. High roller buy-ins range from $1,500 to $25,000, with guarantees reaching as high as $1,000,000.An extra $500,000 in leaderboard prizes is also part of the series. The $75,000 Champions Leaderboard recognizes the best overall performers, awarding up to $30,000 to the winner. The remaining $425,000 is distributed across four weekly WPM leaderboard competitions, divided into High ($109 and above) and Low ($11 to $88) buy-in categories. Each weekly race pays out up to 80 players, with top prizes hitting $15,000. Leaderboard points are earned based on tournament results, factoring in final placement and field size, allowing players who consistently make deep runs to accumulate value beyond direct prize money. The four scoring periods are May 3-9, May 10-16, May 17-23, and May 24 to June 1. Prior to the main festival, CoinPoker will hold a Warm Up phase from April 26th to May 2nd. This period is dedicated to satellites and feeder tournaments designed to provide affordable entry into the major events, including the Main Event. This structure offers a gateway for micro and low-stakes players to participate. A new addition is the Trophy Cabinet, a profile feature that enables players to showcase trophies won during the World Poker Masters and CoinMasters series. CoinPoker is introducing this to add a prestige element that complements cash rewards.Established in 2017, CoinPoker supports cryptocurrency payments in addition to bank cards, Google Pay, and Apple Pay. The World Poker Masters now joins other platform series like the Coin Series of Poker and CoinMasters as part of its expanding tournament portfolio. FAQ When Does World Poker Masters Run? The World Poker Masters is scheduled from May 3 to June 1, 2026. How Much Is Guaranteed Across The Series? There is a total of $25,000,000 guaranteed across all events in the series. What Is The Main Event Buy In And Guarantee? The Main Event has a $530 buy-in and a $2,500,000 guaranteed prize pool. How Does Main Event Qualification Work? Participants may play multiple Day 1 flights; however, only their largest chip stack will advance to Day 2 on June 1. What Are The Other Big Events In The Series? Key tournaments include the $55 Mini Main Event with a $500,000 guarantee, the $215 CoinMillion guaranteeing $1,000,000, and high roller events with guarantees of up to $1,000,000.What Is The Warm Up Stage? The Warm Up stage occurs from April 26 to May 2 and concentrates on satellites and feeder tournaments for World Poker Masters events. What Is The Trophy Cabinet? This is a new profile feature that allows players to exhibit trophies acquired from tournament victories. 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 2025, France experienced another year of expansion in the gambling sector, achieving a total gross gaming revenue (GGR) of €14.1 billion. Recent figures released by the ANJ indicate continued growth in online betting, robust performance in lottery activities, and a positive contribution from casinos. Good to Know The GGR for gambling in France increased by 3% in 2025, totaling €14.1 billion. Revenue from online gambling surged by 8.5%, reaching €2.617 billion. The ANJ cautioned that higher levels of participation might lead to greater gambling-related harm. Online Betting and Lottery Drive Growth in French Gambling Revenue According to the ANJ, the French regulated gambling market expanded from €13.7 billion in 2024 to €14.1 billion in 2025. This 3% growth positions France comparably to other significant European markets, trailing the UK's 4.3% but surpassing Italy's 1.9%. The most significant boost came from online gambling. Revenue in the competitive online sector increased by 8.5% to €2.617 billion, raising the online segment's share of the total market to 18.5%, an increase from 16.4% in 2023. Gains were recorded across sports betting, horse racing, and poker. Additionally, the number of unique online players grew by 7.5% to 4.2 million, and active accounts increased by 7.1% to 6.1 million. There was a 25% jump in multi-activity players, indicating a trend of users engaging with multiple verticals. Sports betting continued to be the primary driver online. Revenue saw a 10.4% climb to €1.766 billion, while stakes increased by 12% to €11.517 billion. Football and tennis were the main contributors to this growth, accounting for 49% and 30% of the rise in stakes, respectively. Active sports betting accounts totaled 5.3 million (a 7.9% rise), and unique bettors reached 3.6 million (an 8.6% increase).Poker also delivered a strong performance, with revenue rising by 6.5% to €525 million, driven entirely by tournament play. Active poker accounts grew by 16.5% to 2.5 million, and unique players increased by 15.1% to 1.9 million. Meanwhile, horse racing betting experienced slower growth, with revenue up by 2.4% to €326 million. In the offline sector, FDJ United reported a GGR of €6.95 billion, a 2.8% increase that secured it 49.2% of the total market. This result was largely driven by lottery products, although European online operations—particularly in the UK and the Netherlands—declined by 8%. The casino sector also saw improvement, with GGR rising 3.4% to €2.816 billion and admissions hitting 31.6 million visits. Slot machines contributed approximately 82% of the casino GGR. ANJ Highlights Player Protection and Risks for 2026 The ANJ also highlighted potential risks. A 2024 assessment by the French Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction identified approximately 1.17 million individuals in France exhibiting problematic gambling behavior, including roughly 360,000 excessive players. The ANJ stated that operators require enhanced tools to monitor risky behavior and intervene sooner. Currently, France ranks seventh globally and third in Europe in terms of GGR, trailing Italy and the UK. The ANJ is also monitoring new products, such as those under the JONUM regime, which now encompasses monetizable digital games featuring gambling-like mechanics, including tradeable in-game items.Looking to the future, the ANJ noted that 2026 may bring additional pressure from tax reforms, intensified competition, and the Fifa World Cup. Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin, President of the ANJ, remarked: “2026 is set to be a crucial year for the entire gambling market. Whether it involves consolidating acquisitions, rapidly reversing a growing downturn, or confronting heightened competition on the eve of the Fifa World Cup, all indicators are flashing red for the regulator. “In this tense climate, further complicated by the rise of new betting forms, it is vital to persist with the expected shift toward a less intensive gambling model and to suggest modifications to the existing regulatory framework to mitigate the perceived risks of 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) -   Canada may be inching toward stricter regulations for sports betting advertisements. Bill S-211 will return to the House of Commons on April 22, offering legislators another opportunity to advance a proposal that would establish a national framework for sports betting ads. Good to Know Bill S-211 is set to come back to the House of Commons for an additional vote on April 22. The Senate has already approved the bill, though the House still needs to complete several more stages. Discontent with sports betting ads has increased following legal adjustments in 2021 and 2022. Canada’s Sports Betting Ad Bill Finds a New Opportunity in Ottawa A new vote in Ottawa might apply fresh pressure to sports betting advertising in Canada. Bill S-211, officially named the National Framework on Sports Betting Advertising Act, is scheduled to return to the House of Commons next week. Should legislators pass it, the bill will probably move to a committee for more detailed examination prior to subsequent votes. Canadian legislators currently have a more favorable political environment than they did during the previous effort. Advocates for ad restrictions are operating in a more stable House, as recent floor switches and byelections have given the ruling Liberal Party a majority of seats. This is important because a more stable House reduces the chance of unexpected political upheaval that could derail the bill before it makes progress. Support is already visible within government circles. During debate earlier this week, Liberal MP and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Industry Karim Bardeesy stated:“The least we can do right now in the House is to pass the bill, send it to committee and give it the consideration it deserves as we take on this scourge.” Despite this support, S-211 still faces hurdles. The Senate has already passed it, but the House needs to guide it through second and third readings before the proposal can become law. For the moment, the April 22 vote appears to be the next critical milestone. Past attempts demonstrate how vulnerable gambling-related bills can be in Ottawa. A comparable measure, Bill S-269, was passed by the Senate in late 2024 but never advanced through the House. Political turmoil interfered, and the proposal expired before legislators could complete the process. S-211 is now being considered under more tranquil circumstances, which may improve its chances of success. The discussion traces back to quick shifts in Canada’s gambling policies. Ottawa decriminalized single-game sports betting in 2021, followed by Ontario launching a competitive iGaming market in 2022. This opened the door for numerous private sportsbook and iCasino operators to enter the nation’s largest provincial market.Since then, the volume of advertising has become a significant political concern. Promotions linked to sportsbooks and online casinos are now impossible to ignore, particularly during live sports events. For many viewers, this oversaturation has crossed a line. Complaints haven’t been limited to Ontario either—betting ads frequently reach audiences in other provinces, upsetting both voters and regulators outside the market where most private operators hold licenses. Thus, although S-211 is presented as a national advertising framework, the true driving force behind it is a widespread backlash against the speed and scope of gambling promotions in Canada. Legislators now have another chance to address this issue. FAQ What Is Bill S-211? Bill S-211 is a proposed law known as the National Framework on Sports Betting Advertising Act. It could establish new limits or safeguards for sports betting ads across Canada. When Will The Next Vote On Bill S-211 Take Place? The House of Commons is set to hold another vote on the bill on April 22. Has Bill S-211 Been Passed Yet? The Senate has already passed the bill, but the House of Commons still needs to approve it through multiple stages before it can be enacted as law. Why Are Canadian Legislators Focused On Sports Betting Ads? Concerns have escalated since single-game sports betting was decriminalized in 2021 and Ontario launched its competitive iGaming market in 2022, resulting in a significant increase in advertising activity. 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) -   SCCG Management, a premier global advisory firm in the gaming, sports betting, and iGaming sectors, has announced the appointment of Michael Silberling as its Chairman. In this capacity, Silberling will offer strategic direction to SCCG's executive team, aiding the firm's ongoing worldwide growth, the cultivation of partnerships, and long-term development strategies throughout the gaming and entertainment landscape. Silberling possesses over 25 years of executive leadership experience in international gaming, hospitality, and resort management. He previously held the position of CEO at Metropolitan Gaming, leading the company since 2021 and managing initiatives for strategic portfolio optimization, international market concentration, and brand repositioning. During his tenure, Metropolitan Gaming recently sold its stake in Emerald Resort and Casino. This move allows the company to concentrate on fortifying its position in crucial markets like the United Kingdom and Egypt, while also progressing with a rebranding of its flagship Mayfair location. The deal, finalized with a consortium led by Tsogo Sun, demonstrates Silberling's methodical strategy for capital allocation and generating long-term value. Silberling's professional history includes roles at some of the most prominent companies in the worldwide gaming industry. He started his career in Nevada in casino management prior to joining Caesars Entertainment, where from 2008 to 2014 he was President of International Operations. Concurrently, he acted as Managing Director for London Clubs International, supervising casino activities throughout Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, and playing a part in the successful openings of new venues in Cairo, Glasgow, and Leeds. Before his most recent role, Silberling was the CEO of Las Vegas-based Affinity Gaming, where he spearheaded considerable operational expansion, and the Chief Operating Officer of Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment, where he managed a varied collection of properties such as Mohegan Sun in Connecticut, Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic City, and international holdings in Canada and other regions. “Michael is a widely esteemed global leader, and his background in international gaming markets, operations, and strategic deals makes him a superb fit for SCCG,” stated Stephen Crystal, Founder and CEO of SCCG Management. As Chairman, Silberling will work in close partnership with SCCG's leadership and its global network of partners, providing strategic perspectives on international market growth, operational superiority, mergers and acquisitions, and new prospects in both regulated and emerging gaming markets. Originally from Palo Alto, California, Silberling now lives in London. He earned an MBA from the UCLA Anderson School of Management and started his career as a management trainee at Harrah’s Entertainment, establishing a groundwork that has underpinned many years of global leadership in the gaming sector. This appointment further bolsters SCCG Management's advisory services, underscoring the firm's dedication to collaborating with industry experts who offer substantial expertise, a worldwide outlook, and a demonstrated history of achievement. 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 has launched a new battle in the ongoing fight over prediction markets. In Montana, the firm is seeking a federal judge’s order to prevent state authorities from classifying its event contracts as illegal gambling as the broader regulatory control dispute unfolds. Good to Know Montana issued a cease-and-desist order after determining there was probable cause that Kalshi’s operations meet the state’s definition of gambling. Kalshi maintains that the CFTC alone is empowered to regulate its exchange pursuant to the Commodity Exchange Act. Similar disputes are already underway in other states, such as Tennessee, where Kalshi recently secured temporary federal protection against state action. Federal Regulatory Authority Is At The Core Montana claims Kalshi’s contracts constitute illegal gambling. Kalshi argues Montana has no jurisdiction in this matter whatsoever. That sums up the entire case in a nutshell. Following a state probe, the Montana Gambling Control Division issued a cease-and-desist order, stating that participants are risking value on outcomes linked to chance or a gambling operation. Kalshi responded by filing a federal lawsuit against Attorney General Austin Knudsen and other state officials, requesting declaratory and injunctive relief to halt enforcement. The company contends its market is governed by federal derivatives laws and overseen by the national CFTC, rather than state gambling regulations. Kalshi further notes that its contracts are transactions between users, not wagers against the platform itself. Traders purchase "yes" or "no" positions on real-world events and can exit their positions before settlement as prices fluctuate. In the legal filing, the company’s attorneys stated:“Because traders do not take a position against the exchange itself, traders’ ability to hedge risk requires counterparties willing to assume risk in the hope of seeing a return.” The filing indicates Montana initially agreed to pause its actions while related litigation in Nevada proceeded, but the state later sent an additional warning letter and escalated the threat of legal proceedings. Kalshi claims this increased the risk and compelled the company to file the new lawsuit. The Montana dispute is part of a broader trend. Reuters has reported that the Trump administration, via the CFTC, has already filed lawsuits against Arizona, Connecticut, and Illinois over similar state attempts to regulate prediction markets. Additionally, Reuters noted that a federal judge in Tennessee temporarily blocked state action against Kalshi earlier this year. Thus, Montana is not an isolated incident; it is part of a larger conflict between state and federal authorities over sports event contracts and prediction 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) -   A federal judge has concluded the fraud case against poker player George Janssen with a prison sentence. The ruling primarily addresses fraudulent loan activities, while a peculiar kidnapping narrative remains in the background. Key Details George Janssen received a sentence of 36 months in federal prison and will be subject to 3 years of supervised release. He is also ordered to pay $908,235 in restitution. Prosecutors stated that he utilized fabricated documentation and non-existent vehicles to obtain approximately $4 million in fraudulent loans. Fraud Conviction Issued Amidst Lingering Kidnapping Questions George Janssen is set to serve time in federal prison following his guilty plea in a fraud case connected to his car dealership, Bay Auto Brokers. According to court documents and recent reports, the sentence is three years, to be followed by three years of supervised release, along with a restitution payment of $908,235. The government's prosecution focused on loan fraud, not poker. Investigators alleged that Janssen used counterfeit paperwork to secure financing for vehicles that did not exist, defrauding lenders of nearly $4 million. He entered a guilty plea in 2025 after the FBI and federal prosecutors compiled their case. The kidnapping incident is often the first aspect of the story that comes to mind for many. In late 2023, Janssen disappeared for 35 days before reappearing near his home with zip ties on his wrists and facial injuries. He had claimed he was abducted and held in a basement across state lines. However, reporting on the case has sustained skepticism regarding the veracity of his account.Outside of legal proceedings, Janssen had established a notable poker career. He has accumulated over $500,000 in live tournament winnings and possesses four WSOP Circuit rings. His victory in an MSPT title in September 2025, while awaiting sentencing, further added to the unusual circumstances surrounding his case. 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 Philippine gaming industry concluded 2025 with a definitive shift in leadership. Revenue from online and electronic gaming surpassed that of licensed casinos, establishing it as the primary growth driver for the sector. Good to Know Full-year 2025 gross gaming revenue reached PHP396.14 billion, or about US$6.61 billion, up 6.39% from 2024. Electronic and online gaming brought in PHP201.12 billion, up 30.04%, and made up 50.77% of total GGR. Licensed casino revenue fell 9.6% to PHP182.50 billion, while Casino Filipino revenue dropped nearly 21% to PHP12.52 billion. Online Overtakes Casinos In Philippines Gaming Market Data from Pagcor revealed the true source of growth in 2025. Electronic and online gaming yielded PHP201.12 billion, a 30.04% increase from the PHP154.66 billion recorded the previous year. According to Pagcor's classification, this category encompasses e-bingo, e-games, bingo grantees, and onsite and offsite poker. By the end of the year, it had overtaken licensed casinos, representing 50.77% of the industry's total GGR. This transition was significant as land-based performance weakened. Licensed casinos generated PHP182.50 billion, a 9.6% decrease compared to the year before. Revenue from Pagcor-operated Casino Filipino venues declined even more sharply, falling nearly 21% to PHP12.52 billion. The gains from the online segment were sufficient to counteract this decline and maintain growth in the total market GGR. Pagcor Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco stated that this trend illustrates the extent of the market's transformation:“The increase in electronic gaming revenues shows how the industry has evolved. Online gaming is no longer a supplementary segment but has now become the leading driver of overall GGR growth.” This growth occurred despite the implementation of stricter digital controls in the third quarter of 2025. Pagcor indicated that reforms targeting the online sector and more rigorous digital payment rules were enacted to enhance transaction traceability, safeguard players, and bolster confidence in the regulated market. Tengco also attributed the 2025 results to a balance in policy rather than unchecked expansion. He said: “The 2025 GGR performance underscores the importance of regulatory balance as the industry evolves. “Our objective is not simply to grow revenues, but to ensure that growth is sustainable, transparent, and compliant because of a stronger regulatory environment that supports the long-term stability of the gaming industry.” Within the broader Asian market, this combination is notable. The growth of the Philippines' gaming industry now relies more substantially on regulated digital channels, while the traditional casino sector is no longer the primary contributor. 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 Rank Group has announced a further quarter of growth and has maintained its full-year profit forecast. Its physical venues performed robustly, while its digital operations provided additional momentum, with management confirming that existing strategies are expected to lead to improved annual earnings. Good to Know Third-quarter like-for-like net gaming revenue increased by 5% to £205.4 million. The Group anticipates an operating profit of £68 million for FY2025-2026, exceeding the previous year's £63.7 million. Revenue growth was reported across the Grosvenor, Mecca, digital, and Spain divisions. Land Based Growth Keeps Rank On Track The most significant improvement originated from the company's brick-and-mortar locations. Grosvenor Casinos generated £95.0 million in Q3 revenue, a 5% increase, with gaming machines driving the advance by growing 10% following the addition of approximately 850 new units after UK regulatory amendments. The company is also expanding its retail sports betting offering, which is now live in 38 out of 50 venues, with trials underway in Luton, Leicester, and Reading. Group-wide, like-for-like net gaming revenue for the quarter ending March 31 hit £205.4 million. For the first nine months of the fiscal year, revenue was up 6% to £625.2 million. The Group reaffirmed its expectation for a like-for-like operating profit of £68 million for FY2025-2026, which is higher than the £63.7 million achieved in FY2024-2025. Management also restated a medium-term goal of reaching at least £100 million in operating profit. Interim Chief Executive Richard Harris stated:“It was pleasing to see continued revenue growth across all businesses and strong profit conversion in Q3, despite a tough macroeconomic backdrop. The results demonstrate the resilience of the business, the strength of the customer proposition, and the growth initiatives we have in place.” Digital revenue increased by 4% to £60.9 million. The UK digital segment saw only a 2% rise, but this was offset by a 14% surge in Spain. Nonetheless, the digital division continues to face the most pressure due to the increase in the UK Remote Gaming Duty from 21% to 40%. The company estimates the annualised financial impact before mitigation measures is approximately £46 million. In response, management has executed cost-reduction initiatives and renegotiated contracts. This has involved reducing staff numbers, cutting marketing and sponsorship expenditures, and securing new terms with suppliers. Concurrently, Rank has sustained investment in performance marketing and customer incentives, indicating a strategy to safeguard growth while managing expenses. Harris commented:“Having implemented the actions required to mitigate much of the impact of higher RGD in our UK digital business, and with clear plans in place to drive sustainable revenue growth, the group is well placed to deliver the medium-term objective of generating at least £100 million operating profit.” In other areas, Mecca revenue grew 5% year-on-year to £37.8 million. This business is also poised to benefit from the abolition of bingo duty, which is projected to save around £6 million annually and contribute to double-digit operating profit growth. In Spain, Enracha reported revenue of £11.7 million, a 9% increase, bolstered by a 27% jump in gaming machine revenue. The company did highlight one external risk, noting that conflict in the Middle East continues to create uncertainty regarding international travel. Despite this, it anticipates revenue growth will persist into the fourth quarter. External analysts provided a mixed yet generally positive assessment. Regulus Partners noted that Rank must continue to support its land-based portfolio without allowing its online offering to weaken, adding:“This will require investment more than mitigation.” Peel Hunt said: “We could upgrade our forecasts by more, but we remain uncertain about the impact of increased UK remote gaming duty. However, we still see a clear route to over £100m of operating profit as investments continue to pay off.” 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) -   GameStop has launched public sales of Power Packs, a new card offering centered on immediate reveals, PSA-certified graded cards, and fast resale possibilities. The product’s design is straightforward, but its legal risks are not. Good to Know Power Packs became available to the public on April 15 and feature Pokémon, football, baseball, and basketball cards. Pricing ranges from $25 up to $2,500. Purchasers can unveil a card, have it shipped, store it in a PSA Vault, or resell it via the platform. GameStop Introduces a Chance-Based Card Product GameStop and PSA have rolled out Power Packs as a digital card product where buyers pay upfront before learning what they’ve received. Pack tiers span from the $25 Starter level to the $2,500 Lunar tier, and GameStop states higher tiers give buyers a shot at more valuable cards—with no guarantees. Card values shown on the site refresh every five minutes. This model is what sets the product apart. After a card is revealed, users can keep the graded slab in a PSA Vault, have it shipped within the U.S., or sell it on the Power Packs website. In short, a buyer can pay, open the pack, see the result, and cash out without ever taking physical possession of the card. GameStop is entering a space already tied to debates about gambling. eBay limits case breaks, box breaks, and pack breaks to pre-approved sellers and says chance-based listings are generally not allowed. eBay also requires buyers in these approved breaks to receive the full pack, box, or slot they purchased. Power Packs aren’t box breaks, but the key concern feels familiar. Buyers pay for an uncertain outcome, hope for a high-value find, and can reinvest proceeds into more purchases. This kind of setup has drawn legal and platform attention across collectibles and digital products for years. Based solely on the product’s mechanics, GameStop is stepping into a category that could invite closer scrutiny. 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) -   DraftKings is positioning itself for the Alberta market ahead of the official opening. The company has initiated pre-registration and targets a July 13 debut, subject to authorization from the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Commission. Key Highlights DraftKings intends to go live in Alberta on July 13. The pre-registration process has already commenced. Users can register accounts now, though deposit and wagering capabilities will remain disabled for another three months. DraftKings Secures Early Foothold in Alberta Although Alberta's market hasn't officially opened, DraftKings is already securing its spot. The Boston-headquartered sports betting and digital casino provider announced on Thursday its intention to launch in the province on July 13, coinciding with the start of regulated gambling. Currently, the operator is accepting pre-registrations while awaiting licensing and regulatory clearance from the AGLC. Consequently, while Alberta residents can set up accounts, they are unable to fund them or place wagers until the official launch date arrives. This isn't DraftKings' first foray into Canada, as it already has a presence in Ontario—currently the nation's only fully legalized online gaming market. The move into Alberta provides the brand with a strategic and viable route for further growth within the nation.Greg Karamitis, DraftKings' executive vice president and general manager of sports, stated: “We are thrilled to grow DraftKings' Canadian presence and introduce our online sportsbook and casino products to Alberta's residents. With the planned launch timed alongside the North American-hosted World Cup, it is an ideal time for local sports enthusiasts to connect with our platform.” DraftKings is adding its name to a roster that already features theScore Bet, Caesars, BetRivers, and PointsBet, all of which are currently offering pre-registration to Alberta users ahead of the market's opening. Today, @DraftKings shared its plans to debut its online sports wagering and casino services in Alberta, Canada, pending licensing and regulatory clearance. Upon approval, DraftKings Sportsbook and Casino expects to be accessible on the province’s upcoming universal… pic.twitter.com/lvUuYX7MbO— DraftKings News (@DraftKingsNews) April 16, 2026 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) -   Construction on the North Fork Rancheria's project continues. The tribe states the Madera casino development will proceed despite a recent California court decision, asserting that gaming on the trust land associated with the site is regulated by federal law, not state law. Good to Know The California Supreme Court opted not to hear an appeal of the lower court's decision, allowing that ruling to stand. According to North Fork, federal authorizations granted in 2012 and 2016 continue to validate the project. Work began in 2024, and the tribe maintains a target opening date of 2026 for the casino. Federal Approval Still Sits At The Center The fundamental stance of the North Fork Rancheria remains unchanged by state legal challenges. The tribe reiterates that its authority to operate a gaming facility near Madera is based on federal trust land status and federal permits, a position it reaffirmed following the latest upheld California ruling. In a statement, the tribe said: “The North Fork Rancheria’s right to game on its federal trust land near Madera, CA, is governed exclusively by federal law. Federal approvals of the North Fork project occurred in 2012 and 2016, and the federal courts have since upheld each approval in final, non-appealable decisions.”This conflict between legal jurisdictions has been central to the dispute for years. Opposing parties, such as the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians and community groups against gaming, contend the development lacks proper state consent after a 2014 statewide ballot measure opposed it. North Fork consistently references the federal process that authorized the site and subsequently placed the land into trust. Building commenced in 2024 on a 100,000-square-foot casino facility near Highway 99. North Fork confirms construction is ongoing, and official project updates indicate the casino is being built with a planned 2026 launch. The tribe also characterized the venture as an economic initiative for its members and the surrounding region. In the same statement, it said: “North Fork will continue to comply with all applicable law as it proceeds with construction of its project to benefit the regional economy and the lives of its more than 3000 tribal citizens.”The project's size is a major reason the controversy persists. The blueprint includes over 2,400 slot machines, 40 gaming tables, and eight restaurants, with the tribe and its backers frequently mentioning the creation of approximately 1,000 jobs. Opponents, however, continue to accuse the tribe of "reservation shopping," as the proposed casino location is over 30 miles from the tribe's 80-acre rancheria in the Madera County mountains, despite federal recognition of historical connections to the Highway 99 area. Past federal court rulings continue to provide North Fork's primary legal support. A federal court dismissed challenges from the project's adversaries in 2016, with U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell stating then: “The law is not on their side.” 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.