Online Casino Doctor

Category: Betting

  • PayBrokers Named Finalist for Two BiS Awards in Brazil’s Booming Betting Market

    PayBrokers Named Finalist for Two BiS Awards in Brazil’s Booming Betting Market

    PayBrokers just scored a significant nod in Brazil’s iGaming space. The payment solutions provider has been named a finalist in two standout categories at the BiS Awards 2025: Best Responsible Gaming Initiative and Best Payment Method. For a company that’s been pushing boundaries quietly behind the scenes, this recognition speaks volumes.

    The BiS Awards shine a light on the biggest changemakers in Brazil’s regulated gaming and sports betting industry. And for PayBrokers, these nominations might just be the start of something bigger.

    The Two Nominations That Matter

    Recognition in two very different but equally important categories gives PayBrokers something to brag about—and with good reason.

    The nod for Best Responsible Gaming Initiative shows that PayBrokers isn’t just about moving money; it’s focused on protecting players. This is becoming a non-negotiable in Brazil, where the sports betting market has grown fast but not always with the right safety nets in place.

    Then there’s the Best Payment Method category. That one’s a bit more technical but just as important. Payments can make or break the user experience in gaming. Nobody wants lag, confusion, or hidden fees when placing bets. The fact that PayBrokers is getting recognized here means its tech is standing out.

    Brazil’s Betting Boom Isn’t Slowing Down

    Brazil is in the middle of a betting boom, and things are only getting hotter.

    With regulation finally finding its footing and major players eyeing the market, reliable payment methods and player protections have never been more critical. Just last year, Brazil legalized fixed-odds sports betting under Law No. 14,790/2023, opening the door for companies like PayBrokers to expand.

    The numbers are no joke either. According to the Brazilian Ministry of Finance, the online betting sector moved R$120 billion in 2023 alone. That’s more than double what it did in 2022. And where there’s money, there’s scrutiny.

    One sentence here.

    Now companies are being asked to do more than just offer a platform—they need to take real responsibility for how they operate.

    Trio Pagamentos Might Be the Secret Sauce

    One of the key tools in PayBrokers’ growing arsenal? Trio Pagamentos.

    The company’s advanced technology has been cited by PayBrokers as a core reason for its recent progress. While details remain under wraps, Trio’s infrastructure reportedly plays a big role in ensuring fast, safe, and transparent transactions. That’s exactly what regulators—and players—are asking for.

    It’s also a signal that partnerships and tech collaborations are no longer optional in this market. They’re necessary for survival.

    Here’s what PayBrokers says has changed since onboarding Trio’s tech:

    • Reduced transaction delays by up to 70%

    • Improved fraud detection using AI-backed algorithms

    • Streamlined onboarding for partner platforms

    It’s not magic. Just better tech behind the curtain.

    Responsible Gaming Isn’t Just a Buzzword Anymore

    This part matters more than most people think.

    Responsible gaming used to be something companies said to check a box. Now it’s becoming central to long-term trust. PayBrokers’ nomination in this area means it’s going beyond the basics.

    And they’re not alone. Brazil has seen a wave of new legislation meant to put more pressure on gaming firms to implement real safety tools.

    Here’s a look at the kinds of initiatives BiS is rewarding:

    Initiative Type Description Compliance Requirement
    Player Verification Real-time identity checks before deposits Mandatory
    Deposit Limits Optional caps on daily/weekly spending Strongly Encouraged
    Self-Exclusion Tools Players can block themselves from the platform Legally Required
    Responsible Gaming Education In-app content to warn about addictive behaviors Voluntary but encouraged

    These programs aren’t just for optics. They’re starting to define which companies last and which fade away.

    Competition Is Tight, But PayBrokers Has Momentum

    The BiS Awards are no popularity contest. They’re judged by industry insiders who know what real impact looks like.

    PayBrokers is up against some heavy hitters this year, especially in the Best Payment Method category. Local fintechs and international brands are all gunning for that top spot. But PayBrokers has something many don’t: a strong mix of regulatory compliance, user experience, and smart partnerships.

    Two paragraphs here.

    And while there’s no guarantee of a win, the nominations alone send a message—PayBrokers isn’t here to play small.

    What This Means for the Industry

    This isn’t just a moment for PayBrokers. It’s a sign that the Brazilian betting market is maturing. Quickly.

    We’re starting to see a shift where payment and security aren’t just background operations—they’re front and center. That shift makes room for companies like PayBrokers to rise fast, provided they keep delivering.

    The BiS Awards might be one event, but for the players in this space, they’re a spotlight. And this year, PayBrokers is standing right in the center of it.

  • Brazil Approves 12 More Companies for Sports Betting and Online Gaming Licenses Until 2029

    Brazil Approves 12 More Companies for Sports Betting and Online Gaming Licenses Until 2029

    Brazil’s gaming market is seeing yet another expansion. The country’s Ministry of Finance, through the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA), has authorized 12 additional companies to operate 30 sports betting and online gaming platforms. These approvals, valid until December 31, 2029, mark another step in the government’s push to regulate and structure the sector.

    New Players Enter Brazil’s Growing Betting Market

    The newly approved operators include a mix of established brands and emerging players. Companies like Blaze, Betwarrior, Brazino777, and Betfast are among those receiving the green light to operate.

    These authorizations come under the framework of Law No. 13,756 (2018) and Law No. 14,790 (2023), aligning with the regulations set forth in Decree No. 11,907 (2024). This legislative structure aims to ensure fair play, consumer protection, and state oversight in Brazil’s rapidly evolving gaming market.

    Who Got Approved? A Look at the Key Companies

    A handful of companies secured multiple brand authorizations, signaling their commitment to deepening their presence in Brazil’s gaming space.

    • Gamewiz Brasil LTDA received two separate ordinances, allowing its brands 9F, 6R, BET.APP, IJOGO, FOGO777, and P9 to enter the market.
    • Futuras Apostas LTDA secured approval for Brazino777, one of the more recognized brands.
    • Fast Gaming S.A. obtained licenses for Betfast, Faz1Bet, and TivoBet.
    • Track Gaming Brasil LTDA was granted approval for Betwarrior, expanding the brand’s global footprint.
    • Foggo Entertainment LTDA got the nod for Blaze and Jonbet, two growing platforms.

    Other companies, including Blow Marketplace LTDA and Gorillas Group do Brasil LTDA, were also included in this latest round of approvals. Their licenses cover both online and physical betting operations.

    What This Means for Brazil’s Betting Industry

    This latest wave of authorizations reinforces Brazil’s position as a lucrative market for sports betting and gaming operators. The government has been tightening regulatory measures, aiming to create a transparent and well-structured industry while combating illegal gambling activities.

    The SPA’s ongoing oversight has focused on key areas:

    • Compliance with licensing requirements to ensure all operators meet strict regulatory guidelines.
    • Consumer protection measures aimed at responsible gaming practices.
    • Increased government revenue through taxation and licensing fees.

    With these measures, authorities are looking to balance market growth with responsible oversight.

    A Booming Industry With More Changes Ahead

    Brazil’s sports betting and gaming market has been expanding significantly since legal frameworks were introduced. While 2024 has seen a steady increase in approved operators, there’s still room for further development.

    • The government is expected to introduce stricter compliance requirements for operators.
    • Discussions around advertising and sponsorship regulations are ongoing, particularly concerning professional sports teams.
    • Market analysts predict a rise in competition as more international brands eye Brazil as a major investment destination.

    For now, with 12 more companies joining the fray, Brazil’s gaming landscape continues to evolve—bringing both opportunities and challenges for operators, regulators, and players alike.

  • Inspired Entertainment Joins Forces with Altenar to Expand Virtual Sports Reach

    Inspired Entertainment Joins Forces with Altenar to Expand Virtual Sports Reach

  • Mexican Football Federation Cracks Down on Illegal Betting and Match Fixing

    Mexican Football Federation Cracks Down on Illegal Betting and Match Fixing

  • Georgia Moves Closer to Legalizing Online Sports Betting with Higher Tax Rate

    Georgia Moves Closer to Legalizing Online Sports Betting with Higher Tax Rate

    A Georgia House committee took a significant step on Wednesday, advancing legislation to legalize digital-only sports betting with a higher tax rate. Lawmakers increased the proposed tax on wagering revenue to 24%, aiming to generate more funds for education programs. The bills now head to the rules committee, with hopes of making it to the House floor before the crucial crossover deadline on Thursday.

    Lawmakers Push for Higher Tax to Boost Education Funding

    The initial proposal set the tax rate at 20%, but House Bill 686 raised it to 24% through a voice vote. The extra revenue is earmarked for the state’s universal pre-K education and HOPE scholarship programs.

    State Representative Sam Park, who introduced the amendment, underscored the financial benefits, saying 85% of the first $150 million in sports betting tax revenue would be allocated to these educational initiatives. Lawmakers see this as an opportunity to support students while expanding Georgia’s gambling industry.

    Online Casino Gaming Rejected Amid Sports Betting Debate

    While online sports betting gained momentum, an effort to add online casino gaming to the proposed ballot measure was struck down. Some lawmakers saw it as a step too far, preferring to focus on sports wagering for now.

    The debate over casino gaming reflects broader concerns about gambling expansion in Georgia. Opponents worry about potential social issues, while supporters argue that regulated online gambling could bring additional revenue. For now, the committee decided to keep the focus solely on sports betting.

    What the Proposed Sports Betting Market Would Look Like

    If the legislation clears all hurdles, Georgia voters would see digital sports betting on the November 2026 ballot. If approved, the market would launch on July 31, 2027, creating an open and competitive industry. The Georgia Lottery Corporation would oversee the system, ensuring regulatory compliance.

    Here’s what the framework includes:

    • Georgia’s professional sports teams, including those linked to Augusta National Golf Club, Atlanta Motor Speedway, and the PGA Tour, would be eligible for licenses.
    • Seven additional standalone licenses would be made available.
    • The Georgia Lottery Corporation would have the option to run its own digital sports betting platform.

    The plan aims to balance competition while keeping oversight under a single regulatory body.

    What’s Next for the Bill?

    The legislation now moves to the rules committee, which decides whether it will reach the House floor for a vote. With the crossover deadline looming on Thursday, lawmakers face a tight timeline.

    If the House passes the bill, it will then head to the Senate for further debate. A constitutional amendment would require voter approval, meaning Georgia residents will ultimately have the final say on whether online sports betting becomes legal in the state.

    The push for legal sports betting reflects growing momentum nationwide, with more states embracing gambling as a source of revenue. Georgia, one of the last holdouts in the Southeast, is now closer than ever to joining the trend.

  • Tribal Gaming Leaders Launch Self-Exclusion Program to Promote Responsible Gambling

    Tribal Gaming Leaders Launch Self-Exclusion Program to Promote Responsible Gambling

    Tribal gaming leaders are rolling out a groundbreaking self-exclusion program, marking a major step toward responsible gambling and community support. The initiative, which allows individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from all participating tribal casinos in a single move, will debut in Wisconsin this March before expanding nationwide.

    A Unified Effort to Address Problem Gambling

    For years, responsible gambling efforts have been fragmented, with self-exclusion policies varying by casino or state. Now, tribal leaders are taking matters into their own hands with a streamlined, tribal-wide solution.

    “This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to the health of our people and communities,” said Ivory Kelly, CEO of the Tribal Council for Responsible Gaming. By offering a unified self-exclusion process, tribes are ensuring that those seeking help can take meaningful action without navigating complicated, casino-specific rules.

    This program is built on a partnership between tribal leaders and idPair, a software company known for its work in regulatory compliance and community-focused technology. The goal is simple: to give people the tools they need to control their gambling habits in a way that respects both their choices and tribal sovereignty.

    Who’s Behind the Initiative?

    A coalition of tribal gaming leaders and regulatory experts has come together to oversee the program. Their involvement ensures that the initiative is not only effective but also aligns with tribal values and gaming regulations.

    The Advisory Board members include:

    • Anika Howard – President/CEO, Wondr Nation
    • Jamie Hummingbird – Chairman, National Tribal Gaming Commissioners/Regulators
    • Oscar Schuyler – Chairman, Board of Regulators, Tribal Gaming Regulatory Authority, Alabama Coushatta Tribe of Texas
    • Ernie Stevens, Jr. – Chairman, Indian Gaming Association of Washington, DC
    • Tamara Van Schyndel – Executive Director, Paskenta Tribal Gaming Commission

    These leaders bring decades of experience in gaming regulation, tribal governance, and responsible gambling advocacy. Their guidance will help shape the expansion and effectiveness of the program as it reaches more states.

    How the Self-Exclusion Program Works

    The new system eliminates the confusion and red tape that often discourages people from seeking help. Instead of having to apply separately at each casino, participants can now self-exclude from all participating tribal casinos in a single step.

    Some key aspects of the program:

    • Easy Enrollment – Individuals can sign up once and be excluded from all casinos under the program.
    • Flexible Duration – Players can choose the length of their exclusion, whether temporary or permanent.
    • Technology-Driven – The platform is powered by idPair, ensuring secure and efficient management of exclusion requests.

    By making the process more accessible, tribal leaders hope to remove barriers for those who need it most.

    Tribal Nations Leading the Way

    Tribal nations have long been recognized for their leadership in responsible gambling initiatives. Many have developed in-house programs to support their communities, but this new effort takes it a step further.

    “This initiative not only underscores the commitment of tribal nations to player protection but also sets a precedent for others to follow,” said Ernie Stevens, Jr., Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association.

    By working together, tribal leaders are demonstrating that responsible gambling isn’t just a casino issue—it’s a community issue. Their collaborative approach could inspire broader industry changes, encouraging commercial casinos and other gambling establishments to adopt similar measures.

    What’s Next for the Program?

    The launch in Wisconsin this March is just the beginning. As more tribal casinos join the initiative, the impact could be significant, providing a safety net for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.

    Looking ahead, tribal leaders plan to evaluate the program’s effectiveness and make adjustments as needed. Expansion into additional states is expected, with more tribes expressing interest in joining the initiative.

    With this program, tribal nations are proving that responsible gaming isn’t just about policies—it’s about people.

  • Churchill Downs Plans $920 Million Expansion Ahead of 154th Kentucky Derby

    Churchill Downs Plans $920 Million Expansion Ahead of 154th Kentucky Derby

    Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) is going all in on a massive expansion for its legendary racetrack in Louisville. With a $920 million investment, the company aims to redefine the Kentucky Derby experience by 2028. From upgraded seating to high-end hospitality, this ambitious overhaul is set to make history—just in time for the 154th Run for the Roses.

    A Record-Breaking Bet on the Future

    Fresh off the success of the 150th Kentucky Derby, which brought in an estimated $434 million in economic impact, CDI isn’t wasting time capitalizing on momentum. The planned renovations will be rolled out in phases from 2025 to 2028, with the first steps hinging on approval of financial incentives from local and state authorities.

    In 2025 alone, the company plans to pour $130 million into the upgrades. This is more than just a facelift—it’s a strategic play to secure the long-term growth of the Derby and cement Churchill Downs as a world-class venue for racing and entertainment.

    The Skye Project: Elevating the Derby Experience

    One of the biggest changes will be the transformation of the Skye Terrace into a five-story luxury structure. The Skye Project will:

    • Replace 11,500 uncovered box seats with 13,300 premium seating options
    • Extend from just past the finish line to the First Turn Club
    • Provide alternative premium seating during construction

    While the initial phases will be ready for the 153rd Kentucky Derby in 2027, full completion is set for 2028. The goal? A better, more immersive experience for fans who want a mix of tradition and modern comforts.

    Major Changes Coming to the Infield

    The infield—historically a mix of general admission chaos and temporary suites—is about to see a permanent transformation. The Conservatory Project will replace temporary structures with long-term premium seating, boosting hospitality options from 2,100 to 7,000.

    This shift means more luxury experiences for Derby guests, fewer logistical challenges with setting up temporary facilities, and a better overall flow for one of the most iconic sporting events in the country.

    Phased Rollout: What to Expect Each Year

    Here’s a breakdown of the timeline:

    Year Investment Key Developments
    2025 $130M+ Initial construction approvals, groundwork for Skye & Conservatory projects
    2026 TBD Continued Skye Project development, early Conservatory work
    2027 TBD Partial completion of Skye Project for 153rd Derby
    2028 $920M Total Full completion in time for 154th Derby

    What This Means for Churchill Downs and Kentucky

    For CDI, this expansion is a long-term play. A more luxurious, high-end experience means higher ticket prices, more premium seating, and an overall increase in revenue.

    For Louisville and Kentucky, the move brings more jobs, tourism dollars, and economic growth. As the Derby’s impact has already proven, improvements to Churchill Downs send ripples across the entire region.

    The stakes are high, but if the past is any indication, Churchill Downs is making the right bet.

  • Alabama Sports Betting Bill Struggles to Gain Support in Senate

    Alabama Sports Betting Bill Struggles to Gain Support in Senate

    Efforts to legalize sports betting in Alabama are hitting a wall, with key supporters admitting they don’t have the votes needed to push legislation forward. Sen. Greg Albritton, a long-time advocate for gambling expansion, says he’s short of the 21 votes required in the Senate—and without them, there won’t be a bill.

    No Bill Without the Votes

    Albritton made it clear: if he had the votes, there would already be a bill on the table. But the reality is different. Speaking on Capitol Journal, a local political television show, he didn’t sugarcoat the situation.

    “I would have a bill today dropped if I had 21 votes in the Senate,” Albritton said. “I don’t have 21 votes in the Senate.”

    That’s a tough spot for anyone pushing for legalized sports betting in a state where gambling remains a controversial issue. Alabama is one of just five states without a lottery, and previous attempts to pass gambling bills have all hit roadblocks. Even last year, when the Alabama House approved a gambling package, the Senate shut it down.

    A “Moral Obligation” to Regulate Gambling?

    Albritton is framing the issue as more than just money—he says it’s about responsibility. He believes Alabama has a duty to regulate gambling, not just let it happen in the shadows.

    “Last week, before Sunday’s Super Bowl, bets were being made in the State House,” he said. “I’ll say it that way. Bets were being made.”

    That’s a telling admission. If gambling is already happening—unregulated, untaxed, and outside the law—why not legalize and control it? Albritton even joked about Alabama native Jalen Hurts making people money in the Super Bowl, a reference to widespread betting.

    But moral arguments haven’t been enough to sway the Senate. Even with public interest and growing pressure, lawmakers remain divided.

    Tribal Influence and Political Maneuvering

    One of the biggest question marks in this debate is the role of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians (PCI). They’re Alabama’s only federally recognized tribe, and they’ve been making moves that suggest they’re preparing for gambling expansion.

    • In November 2024, PCI hired Fine Geddie, a powerful lobbying firm.
    • They recently bought Birmingham Racecourse, raising speculation about their intentions.

    Some thought tribal lobbying efforts could tip the scales in favor of gambling legislation. But Albritton says that’s not happening.

    “It doesn’t seem to [help],” he admitted. “I can’t seem to get my 21 votes.”

    That raises a bigger question: what, if anything, could change lawmakers’ minds? If lobbying, public demand, and economic incentives aren’t enough, what will be?

    What’s Next for Alabama Gambling?

    Senate President Pro-Tem Garlan Gudger suggested earlier this year that lawmakers might discuss the issue early in the session if interest was high enough. But with Albritton struggling to find the votes, that seems unlikely.

    For now, Alabama remains stuck in place. No lottery, no legal sports betting, and no clear path forward. Other states are raking in revenue from legalized gambling, while Alabama continues to debate whether to even bring the issue to a vote.

    Unless something changes, sports betting in Alabama will stay exactly where it is: happening behind closed doors, outside of state control, and without contributing a dime to public funds.

  • Pennsylvania Shatters Super Bowl Betting Record with $101.5 Million in Wagers

    Pennsylvania Shatters Super Bowl Betting Record with $101.5 Million in Wagers

    Pennsylvania bettors made history during Super Bowl LIX, placing a record-breaking $101.5 million in wagers, according to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. The staggering number represents a 20.4% increase from last year’s Super Bowl, reaffirming the state’s growing appetite for sports betting.

    A New High for Pennsylvania’s Sportsbooks

    The 2024 Super Bowl between the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs saw an unprecedented level of betting activity in Pennsylvania. The previous record, set in 2023 when the same two teams squared off, was shattered by over $17 million.

    But while the betting volume surged, sportsbooks in Pennsylvania didn’t come out on top. In fact, they took a collective hit, reporting a loss of $6.53 million. The reason? Most bets were placed in favor of the Eagles, who convincingly defeated the Chiefs 40-22.

    One thing is clear: Pennsylvania bettors weren’t just placing wagers—they were winning.

    Online Betting Dominates the Market

    Pennsylvania offers both retail and online sports betting options, but the overwhelming majority of gamblers preferred digital platforms.

    • 91.2% of all bets were placed online, showing the continued shift away from brick-and-mortar sportsbooks.
    • 18 retail sportsbook locations were open for wagers, but they saw just a fraction of the total bets.
    • 11 online platforms handled the lion’s share of the action, reinforcing the convenience and accessibility of mobile betting.

    With more bettors choosing digital platforms, the future of sports gambling in Pennsylvania seems firmly tied to online services.

    Nationwide Trends Show Explosive Growth

    Pennsylvania’s record-setting numbers are part of a larger trend sweeping across the U.S. The American Gaming Association (AGA) projected that Americans would legally wager a record $1.39 billion on Super Bowl LIX, underscoring just how mainstream sports betting has become.

    A recent AGA survey revealed:

    • 75% of Americans support legal sports betting in their home state.
    • 90% view sports wagering as a normal form of entertainment.

    These numbers highlight the shift in public perception. What was once a niche activity is now widely accepted and even celebrated.

    What’s Driving the Betting Boom?

    Several factors have contributed to the rise in sports betting, particularly in Pennsylvania:

    1. Easier access to online platforms – With 11 online sportsbooks in the state, betting is more convenient than ever.
    2. More aggressive marketing by sportsbooks – Bonuses, promotions, and advertising campaigns continue to attract new users.
    3. Favorable regulations – Pennsylvania has embraced legal sports betting, creating an environment where gamblers feel safe placing wagers.
    4. Increased fan engagement – More bettors means more people tuning in to games, making sports even more exciting.

    This combination of accessibility, legality, and enthusiasm is fueling record numbers—not just in Pennsylvania, but nationwide.

  • New Zealand Lawmakers Weigh TAB Monopoly for Online Betting Amid Growing Concerns

    New Zealand Lawmakers Weigh TAB Monopoly for Online Betting Amid Growing Concerns

    New Zealand’s lawmakers are locked in debate over a bill that could reshape the country’s online betting landscape. If passed, the legislation would grant TAB New Zealand a monopoly over online racing and sports betting. Proponents argue it’s a way to keep gambling revenue within the country, while critics fear it could backfire, pushing bettors toward offshore platforms.

    Government Aims for Control Over Betting Revenue

    The proposed changes to the Racing Industry Act 2020 would effectively shut out private online bookmakers, making TAB NZ the sole legal option. Supporters say this is a necessary move to safeguard responsible gambling and ensure revenue stays in New Zealand’s economy.

    One key argument from lawmakers backing the bill is that a state-controlled system can better enforce gambling regulations. Unlike offshore platforms, TAB NZ would be required to reinvest its earnings into local racing and sports organizations.

    Gambling Minister Kieran McAnulty has stressed that betting revenue plays a crucial role in funding New Zealand’s racing industry, which employs thousands of people. “This is about making sure that profits from betting are directed where they should be—into supporting New Zealand’s racing and sporting communities,” he said.

    Critics Warn of Reduced Competition and Black Market Risks

    Not everyone is convinced. Some industry experts believe shutting out competition could reduce innovation and lead to worse odds for bettors. Without private operators in the mix, they argue, TAB NZ would have little incentive to offer competitive payouts or improve its platform.

    • The Commerce Commission, New Zealand’s watchdog for fair competition, has not yet taken a stance on the bill. Some expect that it may raise concerns, as the organization has pushed for more competition in other industries, including banking and supermarkets.
    • Critics also warn that bettors frustrated by limited options might turn to black market gambling sites. These platforms often operate outside of New Zealand’s regulatory framework, making it harder to enforce responsible gambling measures.

    Industry analyst Gregor Thompson highlighted this risk, saying: “That is clearly a risk and the minister has acknowledged that will likely happen, that very committed sports bettors will find a way around the law using things like cryptocurrencies.”

    Entain’s Legal Troubles Raise Red Flags

    Adding another layer of complexity to the debate is the controversy surrounding TAB NZ’s operating partner, Entain. The British-based gambling giant, which signed a 25-year partnership with TAB NZ in 2023, is currently facing legal scrutiny in multiple countries.

    Regulators in Australia, the UK, and Turkey have all investigated Entain over alleged financial misconduct:

    Jurisdiction Allegations Regulatory Body
    Australia Anti-money laundering violations AUSTRAC
    United Kingdom Financial reporting irregularities Financial Reporting Council
    Turkey Bribery linked to former operations Settled in 2023

    With such ongoing legal battles, some lawmakers question whether Entain is the right long-term partner for TAB NZ. Racing Minister Winston Peters has been briefed on the situation, but his office has declined to comment publicly.

    What’s Next for the Bill?

    The bill is still in its early stages, and much depends on how lawmakers respond to concerns from both supporters and critics.

    • If passed, New Zealand would become one of the few countries to enforce a state-run online betting monopoly.
    • If rejected, the government may need to explore alternative ways to tax offshore bookmakers or regulate them more effectively.

    For now, the debate continues, with plenty of questions still unanswered. Will limiting competition really protect New Zealand bettors, or will it drive them underground? And with Entain’s legal troubles making headlines, is TAB NZ’s monopoly already on shaky ground?