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PowerPlay Signs Major Sponsorship Deal with Ottawa Black Bears
The Ottawa Black Bears, Canada’s newest professional box lacrosse team, has scored a significant partnership with PowerPlay Online Sportsbook and Casino. The agreement marks a milestone for both parties, providing mutual benefits in visibility, branding, and community engagement.

Jersey Branding and Beyond

Under the terms of this six-figure sponsorship, PowerPlay’s logo will prominently feature on the Black Bears’ home and away jerseys, making the company an integral visual component of the team’s debut season. But the collaboration doesn’t stop at uniforms. The partnership extends to include:
- Branding in high-visibility areas such as the goal crease and behind the bench.
- Prominent advertising on the LED display ring and rink boards at the Canadian Tire Centre during home games.
This extensive integration ensures PowerPlay’s presence resonates with fans attending games in person and those following the action on broadcasts.

Exclusive Status Secured

The deal also cements PowerPlay as the exclusive sportsbook and online casino partner of the Ottawa Black Bears. This exclusivity positions the brand as a key player in the local sports entertainment landscape, aligning its bold, community-focused ethos with the team’s ambition to make a strong debut in Canadian lacrosse.

Chelsea McDermott, Vice President of Business Operations for the Black Bears, expressed excitement about the agreement:
“We are thrilled to have PowerPlay on board for our inaugural season with such a comprehensive sponsorship agreement. Their six-figure investment with the Black Bears represents a foundational agreement for our lacrosse club. And we’re proud to wear their logo alongside ours as we launch our franchise.”

A Shared Vision for Growth

This partnership isn’t just about visibility—it’s about shared values. PowerPlay Marketing Director Thomas Vermeulen highlighted the cultural and emotional ties that make this collaboration special:
“This partnership celebrates a sport deeply tied to Canada’s heritage and competitive energy. Together, we’ll ignite passion, energize fans, and deliver excitement all season long.”

The connection between PowerPlay and the Black Bears signifies a joint commitment to promoting lacrosse, a sport that holds deep roots in Canadian history and continues to inspire communities across the country.

Strategic Moves in the Gaming Sector

The sponsorship comes as PowerPlay sharpens its focus on the Canadian market. In a recent interview, CEO Dean Serrao reflected on the company’s 2024 strategy, revealing that their emphasis on Canada was a deliberate shift from the global trend of expansion into newer markets.
“Looking back at 2024, it has been a year of consolidation for our business and one that has positioned us to continue on a strong growth trajectory in our core Canadian market,” said Serrao.

By concentrating efforts on Canada, PowerPlay has solidified its presence in a market where sports betting and online gaming are seeing consistent growth. The partnership with the Ottawa Black Bears represents a natural extension of this focus, tapping into the team’s growing fanbase to further embed the brand in the local sporting community.

This collaboration has sparked anticipation for what the inaugural season will bring, both on and off the field. Fans of the Ottawa Black Bears and followers of the gaming industry will be watching closely to see how this unique partnership evolves in the months ahead.
January 11, 2025
Michigan Casino Dream Hits Roadblock: Little River Band Faces Major Setback

A long-awaited $180 million casino project proposed by the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians in Muskegon County appears to be grinding to a halt. Ogema Larry Romanelli of the tribe expressed growing concerns about the future of the development, citing complex hurdles involving tribal sovereignty, federal processes, and state-level approvals.

A 14-Year Investment in Limbo

The proposed casino, which would have been the tribe’s second gaming facility, was envisioned for a 60-acre site in Fruitport Township, the former home of the Great Lakes Downs racetrack. Since 2008, the tribe has spent 14 years and $30 million preparing for the project. The plan included a full-scale gaming resort featuring 1,700 slot machines, 35 table games, and facilities aimed at drawing both locals and visitors to Muskegon County.

Despite receiving federal approval in December 2020 from the U.S. Department of the Interior to take the land into trust, the project has been stalled at the state level. The sticking point lies in the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which requires the Michigan governor’s consent for off-reservation casino developments.

Governor’s Decision Tied to Broader Tribal Recognition

In June 2022, Governor Gretchen Whitmer declined to give her approval for the project. Her decision, as outlined in an official statement, was not a rejection of the Little River Band’s proposal itself but stemmed from overlapping claims by another tribe, the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians.

The Grand River Bands, recognized by the state but not federally acknowledged, are seeking formal recognition from the U.S. Department of the Interior. Their pending petition complicates the situation, as the land earmarked for the casino overlaps with their claimed ancestral territory.

In a letter to the Department of the Interior, Whitmer requested additional time to make her decision, hoping for clarity on the Grand River Bands’ federal status. However, her extension request was denied, forcing her to act without resolution of the overlapping claims.

“Despite the strength of its proposal, I am unable to concur in the Little River Band’s two-part determination because of the remaining uncertainty created by the Grand River Bands’ pending acknowledgment petition,” Whitmer wrote at the time.

Federal Recognition Denied for Grand River Bands

In March 2023, the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs issued a preliminary decision denying federal recognition to the Grand River Bands. However, the decision remains subject to further review, leaving the future of the Little River Band’s Muskegon casino project in limbo.

For the Little River Band, the delay represents not just a financial loss but also a missed opportunity to expand their economic footprint in Muskegon County, one of their designated service areas.

A History of the Great Lakes Downs Site

The site of the proposed casino has a storied past. The Great Lakes Downs racetrack, which operated from 1999 to 2007, was purchased by the Little River Band in 2008 with hopes of revitalising the area through the planned Lakeshore Casino and Resort. The vision was ambitious, aiming to bring economic growth and job opportunities to Muskegon County.

But progress has been stymied by regulatory hurdles. While the tribe’s existing Little River Casino Resort in Manistee operates on tribal land, the Muskegon site falls under the off-reservation category, triggering additional layers of scrutiny and the need for state approval.

What Lies Ahead?

For now, the future of the Muskegon casino project remains uncertain. The Little River Band continues to advocate for their plans, but without the governor’s consent, federal approval alone is insufficient to move forward.

The situation underscores the complexities of tribal gaming laws and the challenges faced by Native American tribes seeking to expand economic opportunities through gaming enterprises.

January 8, 2025
AGEM Index Drops 4.8% in December as Gaming Equipment Suppliers Face Mixed Market Performance
December brought a challenging close to the year for the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers (AGEM) Index, which saw a 4.8% drop, equating to a 79.54-point decrease. The index closed at 1,564.82 points, down from November’s figure. Despite this decline, the index remains significantly higher than the same period last year, boasting an impressive year-over-year increase of 446.00 points, or 39.9%.

Stock Performance: Winners and Losers in December

The AGEM Index tracks the stock performance of 12 major global gaming suppliers, providing insights into the industry’s health. In December, seven out of the 12 companies reported stock price declines, resulting in nine negative contributions and only three positive contributions to the overall index.

Aristocrat Leisure Limited emerged as the largest negative contributor. Despite its stock price rising 0.9%, fluctuations in the Australian to U.S. dollar exchange rate led to a 28.86-point loss for the index.

Light & Wonder also weighed heavily on the index, with its stock price dropping by 9.1%, resulting in a 19.14-point loss.

Conversely, Ainsworth Game Technology provided a glimmer of positivity. Its stock price surged by 15.3%, adding a modest 0.49-point gain to the index.

Annual Performance: A Strong Year Overall

Despite December’s dip, 2024 was a strong year for the AGEM Index, which posted a 34.0% increase overall. This growth made it the fifth-best performing year since the index’s inception in 2005, falling just shy of 2021’s stellar performance. The strong annual figures underscore the industry’s resilience and the market’s confidence in gaming equipment suppliers.

Broader Market Context: U.S. Stock Indices See Mixed Results

The AGEM Index’s performance in December mirrored trends in broader financial markets, where results were similarly mixed:

The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 5.3%.

The S&P 500 declined by 2.5%.

The NASDAQ bucked the trend, managing a slight 0.5% increase.

These movements highlight the challenges and volatility in global financial markets as investors grapple with shifting economic conditions.

What the Numbers Mean for the Gaming Industry

The AGEM Index’s December performance reflects the diverse factors impacting the gaming equipment industry, from currency exchange rates to company-specific challenges. While companies like Aristocrat Leisure faced external pressures despite stock gains, others like Light & Wonder saw significant losses that directly impacted the index.

The modest contributions from Ainsworth Game Technology and other outperformers were not enough to offset the broader declines. However, the industry’s overall annual growth points to a sector that continues to innovate and capture investor interest.

Volatility in Stock Prices: Seven out of 12 companies experienced stock price declines, showcasing the industry’s sensitivity to broader market dynamics.

Currency Impact: Exchange rates played a pivotal role, as evidenced by Aristocrat Leisure’s contribution to the index drop despite its stock price increase.

Annual Growth: The AGEM Index’s 34.0% annual growth in 2024 highlights a strong recovery trajectory, making it one of the top-performing years in its history.

As the industry moves into 2025, analysts will closely watch how gaming suppliers navigate market volatility and currency fluctuations. While challenges remain, the AGEM Index’s robust annual growth suggests that the sector is well-positioned to adapt and thrive.
January 8, 2025
Parisian Gaming Clubs Shut Amid Political Uncertainty, Straining Sector
Parisian gaming clubs, a cornerstone of local entertainment and significant economic contributors, have been shuttered since January 1. The closures stem from political upheaval following the French government’s collapse on December 5 due to a censure motion. This crisis has left 1,500 employees in financial limbo and threatens the stability of the sector.

Thousands of Jobs and a Sector at Risk

The gaming club closures have far-reaching consequences. Around 1,500 employees now rely on government-backed partial unemployment benefits, which cover 60% of their salaries. However, these payments fall short of easing the financial burden for workers or the businesses themselves. Fixed expenses like rent, utilities, and maintenance continue to mount, pushing some establishments to the brink of financial collapse.

Independent gaming clubs are especially vulnerable. With minimal resources and dwindling cash reserves, many small operators are struggling to stay afloat. “This situation is terrible for the 1,500 families who work in the clubs,” said Sébastien Leclercq, General Manager of Circus Casino France, which operates Club Circus Paris.

Leclercq explained that his company is providing additional unemployment supplements to employees for two months. However, he warned that this level of support cannot be sustained indefinitely. “We will not be able to last several months like this,” he cautioned during an interview with BFM Business.

Government Support but Limited Action

Efforts to stabilise the sector have been hindered by the political turmoil. While both the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Labor have expressed support for gaming clubs, meaningful legislative intervention has yet to materialise.

A government report outlining measures to ensure the long-term sustainability of gaming clubs was completed before the crisis but remains unacted upon. “The Ministry of the Interior and Labor support us: they are receptive and try to help us,” said Leclercq. Yet, the lack of an operational government has stalled progress.

The clubs’ closure also impacts public finances. Parisian gaming clubs contribute significantly to tax revenues, generating a Gross Gaming Product (GRP) of €120 million in 2022. Of this, €50 million was allocated to public authorities, including €40 million for the State and €10 million for the Paris town hall. Club Circus Paris alone accounted for €20 million in revenue, with €16 million stemming from gross gaming revenue.

Independent Clubs Face Bleak Prospects

While major operators like Club Circus Paris have some capacity to weather the storm, smaller clubs are nearing their breaking point. Without swift intervention, these independent establishments could soon shutter permanently, further destabilising the sector.

Leclercq highlighted the precarious position of smaller clubs: “Some independent clubs no longer have any resources and are in danger.” Fixed costs such as lease agreements and equipment maintenance continue to drain their finances despite the lack of revenue.

The ripple effects could extend beyond the gaming sector. The closures have disrupted a local entertainment ecosystem that attracts visitors and supports related industries like hospitality and tourism.

The Need for Urgent Legislative Action

Industry leaders are urging the French government to prioritise reopening gaming clubs and enacting supportive policies. Without immediate action, the consequences could be dire for businesses, employees, and the broader economy.

Employee Well-being: Extended closures could deepen financial hardship for the 1,500 workers dependent on the sector.

Economic Losses: The cessation of gaming operations translates to significant losses for both businesses and public revenues.

Sector Viability: Independent clubs, which lack the financial buffers of larger operators, are at high risk of permanent closure.

As the political stalemate drags on, the future of Parisian gaming clubs—and the livelihoods they support—remains uncertain.
January 8, 2025
Bet365 Returns to Profit in Fiscal Year 2023-24 Amid Revenue Growth and US Expansion

Bet365, one of the world’s largest online sports betting companies, has made a strong comeback to profitability for its fiscal year ending March 31, 2024. Boosted by solid revenue growth and a push into the lucrative United States market, the company’s results reflect a blend of strategic investments and innovation in its offerings.

Revenue Rebounds with 9% Growth

The latest financial filing by Bet365 with Companies House paints a bright picture for the company’s performance. Group revenue surged to £3.72 billion ($4.65 billion), a notable 9% increase from the prior year’s £3.41 billion ($4.26 billion). The betting and gaming segment alone contributed £3.7 billion ($4.62 billion), matching the overall growth rate.

Profit before tax for the betting segment soared to £626.6 million ($782.97 million), marking a significant turnaround. However, Bet365’s Stoke City FC business continued to struggle, reporting a widened loss of £30.3 million ($37.86 million) compared to £12.4 million ($15.49 million) the previous year.

US Expansion: A Game-Changer

CEO Denise Coates emphasised the importance of the company’s investments in the US, calling the expansion a “key driver” of the group’s success. Bet365 launched regulated betting operations in seven states, including Arizona, Iowa, Indiana, and Pennsylvania. The platform’s American footprint is seen as a pivotal growth area, with product launches tailored to local markets.

The addition of new trading weeks and the enhancement of its Bet Builder tool also contributed to the year’s 11% rise in sports betting revenue. The Bet Builder feature now extends to sports such as boxing, cricket, and Formula 1, catering to a broader audience.

Product Innovation and Challenges

Bet365 continues to refine its offerings, adding value to both sports betting and gaming segments. Fantasy sports and virtual gaming were upgraded, with new languages like French and Latin American Spanish broadening the appeal to diverse audiences.

However, the gaming segment’s revenue remained flat. Market challenges in live casino gaming dampened growth despite efforts to create more personalised user experiences. Innovations such as a revamped recommendation engine and exclusive live games, including the company’s proprietary Super Mega Ultra live game show, aim to boost engagement.

Charity and Executive Pay in Focus

Bet365 increased its charitable contributions significantly during the year, donating £127 million ($158.69 million), up 20.5% from the previous period. The majority of these funds (£120 million or $149.95 million) went to the Denise Coates Foundation, which focuses on community and health initiatives.

Interestingly, Denise Coates herself took a major pay cut. Her annual salary dropped to £94.6 million ($118.21 million) from £220.7 million ($275.78 million) the previous year, reflecting the company’s focus on operational efficiencies.

Stoke City FC and Regulatory Compliance

A significant development in the year was the demerger of Stoke City FC, a football club historically linked to Bet365. The club, now fully owned by director John Coates, was delisted as a Bet365 asset in July 2024. The move incurred an estimated cost of £118 million ($147.45 million).

Meanwhile, regulatory compliance remained a top priority for Bet365. The company is actively participating in the UK Gambling Commission’s pilot for financial risk checks, designed to promote responsible gambling. Under the programme, players with monthly net deposits exceeding £500 are flagged, with thresholds set to tighten in 2025.

Ongoing Challenges and Legal Matters

Despite its strong performance, Bet365 faced several challenges. The company is cooperating with an anti-money laundering (AML) investigation by Australian regulator AUSTRAC, initiated in March 2024. While enforcement action is uncertain, Bet365 has committed to full cooperation.

Customer claims amounting to £19.9 million ($24.87 million) primarily stemmed from past activity in Germany and Austria. Bet365 is addressing these claims while maintaining a focus on compliance and growth in regulated markets.

January 8, 2025
EGT Names Christian Graffigna as New Director of Argentina Office
Euro Games Technology (EGT), a leading supplier in the gaming industry, has announced a major leadership change for its Argentina operations. Christian Graffigna, a seasoned professional with decades of experience, has officially taken over as the director of EGT’s Argentina office as of December.

A Leader With a Stellar Resume

Christian Graffigna is no stranger to the world of gaming and entertainment. With a degree from the Argentine University of Enterprise (UADE), he further enhanced his leadership skills through programmes at the University of Piura in Peru and the prestigious IESE Business School.

Graffigna’s career has spanned several prominent roles in the gaming sector. At CIRSA and Luckia, he proved his capabilities, later taking on the role of General Manager at Starbay Casino in Panama, where he led for seven years. His appointment at EGT signals a clear intent to leverage his expertise to strengthen the company’s presence in Argentina.

Strategic Goals for Argentina

In his new role, Graffigna is expected to focus on positioning EGT as a top supplier in the Argentinian gaming market. With fierce competition in the industry, Graffigna’s leadership is seen as critical in driving growth and innovation. He has already expressed his ambitions to elevate EGT’s reputation and impact within the region.

Market Expansion: Graffigna’s deep understanding of Latin American markets will likely help EGT tap into new opportunities across the country.

Innovation: Under his leadership, the company is expected to push forward with cutting-edge gaming technology and tailored solutions for Argentinian clients.

Collaboration: Building stronger partnerships with local operators is expected to be a cornerstone of EGT’s strategy under Graffigna’s guidance.

A Boost for EGT’s Regional Presence

Argentina represents a key market for EGT in Latin America. The country’s gaming industry has been undergoing significant changes in regulation and demand, providing ample opportunities for suppliers to expand their footprint. EGT, known for its innovative gaming equipment, has already established a solid foundation in the region.

Graffigna’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to accelerate EGT’s growth trajectory in Argentina. His knowledge of the local landscape and his proven ability to lead in competitive environments could give the company an edge over its rivals.

Industry Reactions and Next Steps

The news of Graffigna’s appointment has been met with optimism by industry stakeholders. His proven track record in managing complex operations and delivering results is expected to bring renewed energy to EGT’s Argentina operations.

A spokesperson for EGT said, “Christian Graffigna’s leadership is a game-changer for our company in Argentina. His experience and vision align perfectly with our growth ambitions.”

What’s Next for EGT?

With Graffigna at the helm, EGT is expected to:

Enhance its product portfolio to better meet the needs of the Argentinian market.

Focus on operational excellence to improve service delivery and customer satisfaction.

Explore new partnerships and opportunities to strengthen its regional presence.

Graffigna’s appointment marks a new chapter for EGT in Argentina, one filled with promise and potential.
January 7, 2025
Ukraine Shakes Up Gambling Industry, Axes Regulatory Body Amid Corruption Claims
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has taken a bold step to overhaul the nation’s gambling industry, signing into law sweeping reforms that will dismantle the existing regulatory body, the Commission for the Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (KRAIL), by April 1, 2025. These changes, encapsulated in Law No. 9256-d, aim to address corruption allegations and improve oversight through the creation of a new regulatory authority.

A New Era for Gambling Oversight

The legislation, approved by Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada in December 2024, introduces a “central executive body” tasked with enforcing gambling policies. This move seeks to eliminate inefficiencies and corruption that plagued KRAIL since its inception in 2020, coinciding with the legalization of gambling in Ukraine.

The new authority will:

Manage licensing processes.

Implement compliance measures.

Introduce real-time monitoring systems for gambling activities.

Draft regulations to promote responsible gambling.

One of the significant changes includes mandatory player identification protocols and guidelines aimed at minimizing gambling addiction. These measures include limits on gambling sessions, spending caps, and enforced breaks to reduce the risks of compulsive behaviour.

Scandals and the Fall of KRAIL

KRAIL’s reputation has been marred by scandals. Notably, in 2021, a KRAIL official, Yevhen Hetman, was arrested for allegedly accepting a $90,000 bribe to issue gambling permits. More recently, Ivan Rudyi, KRAIL’s head, faced accusations of aiding a Russian-owned online casino and compromising national security by exposing sensitive data of Ukrainian military personnel.

These incidents sparked public outcry, culminating in a petition led by soldier Pavlo Petrychenko in March 2024, which gathered over 26,000 signatures in a single day. The petition demanded immediate government action to address the societal harms linked to gambling.

Stricter Controls on Advertising and Payments

The new law introduces significant restrictions to curb predatory practices in the gambling sector. Advertising will face stringent limitations, including:

A ban on ads except during late-night broadcasts aimed at audiences over 21.

Prohibitions on promotions involving free bonuses or credit betting.

A crackdown on unsolicited marketing messages and calls.

Payments within the gambling industry are also undergoing reform. Transactions must now be conducted exclusively through bank accounts, effectively banning other payment methods. Companies with tax or licensing arrears will be barred from operating, while foreign entities must meet strict criteria to apply for state lottery licenses.

Digitization and Transparency: The Road Ahead

Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation, Mykhailo Fedorov, emphasized the importance of digitizing licensing processes and introducing an online monitoring system. According to Fedorov, these steps aim to “remove the human factor” and foster transparency and efficiency in regulatory operations.

Key aspects of the digitization plan include:

Digital licenses to simplify application and renewal processes.

Real-time monitoring of gambling activities to ensure compliance with the law.

Centralized data systems to prevent fraudulent activities.

Addressing Social Concerns

The reforms reflect mounting concern over the social and economic impact of gambling. Stories of addiction, financial ruin, and broken families have dominated headlines, prompting urgent calls for reform. The law also bans companies linked to hostile nations from obtaining licenses, ensuring national security considerations are prioritized.

Restrictions extend to sponsorships, prohibiting the involvement of military personnel and public figures in gambling promotions. This measure aims to shield vulnerable groups from being targeted by aggressive marketing campaigns.
January 7, 2025
DraftKings Rolls Out Sportsbook+ Subscription in New York
DraftKings has unveiled its latest offering, Sportsbook+, a subscription service tailored for bettors in New York. Priced at $20 per month, this service promises enhanced odds on parlay bets, aiming to amplify the betting experience for users while boosting profitability for the company.

What Sportsbook+ Brings to the Table

Subscribers to Sportsbook+ receive stepped-up odds boosts for parlays, creating the potential for significantly higher payouts. For parlays with individual legs of -500 odds or narrower, the profit boost starts at 10% for two-leg parlays and scales up to a remarkable 100% for those with 11 or more legs. This effectively doubles the potential payout, which is an enticing prospect for seasoned bettors.

But the real draw? Unlimited boosts. Unlike traditional promotions in the U.S. sports betting market, where limits are often imposed, this service provides bettors with a unique edge—an appealing factor for regular users.

DraftKings explained, “The subscription service was designed to offer our customers an enhanced fan experience, creating more excitement and value to our extensive parlay offering.”

A Strategic Move Towards Parlay Dominance

DraftKings’ focus on parlays is no accident. Parlays, which require all legs to hit for a payout, offer sportsbooks higher profit margins compared to single bets. CEO Jason Robins has repeatedly emphasized this as a cornerstone of the company’s strategy.

During a Q2 earnings call, Robins stated, “Certainly, we feel like there’s a ton of room to increase our parlay mix and increase our average leg count still. The team is very focused on that.”

This focus has already shown results. The company’s December 2023 launch of a progressive parlay product, which offers partial payouts for near-misses, saw notable success. Customers appreciated the balance of risk and reward, driving engagement and boosting structural hold percentages year over year.

CFO Alan Ellingson reinforced this during the Q3 earnings call, noting, “Structural sportsbook hold percentages increased year-over-year as customers continued to enjoy our parlay offerings.”

Odds Boosts: A Key to Retention

Odds boosts are not just about attracting bettors; they play a vital role in retaining them. Offering consistent, enhanced returns keeps users engaged and reduces churn in a market where competitors vie for attention.

Sportsbook+ goes further by eliminating caps on boosts, a move that positions DraftKings to stand out. This approach not only appeals to heavy users but also builds long-term loyalty in an increasingly crowded industry.

A Calculated Bet on High-Margin Customers

The introduction of Sportsbook+ aligns with DraftKings’ broader vision of fostering loyalty while generating higher-margin wagers. By targeting a specific customer base—those who frequently bet on parlays—the service is tailored to drive maximum value for both users and the company.

Key features of Sportsbook+:

Stepped-Up Odds Boosts: Start at 10% for two-leg parlays, rising to 100% for parlays with 11+ legs.

Unlimited Usage: No caps on the number of boosts, an uncommon feature in the U.S. market.

Exclusive Access: Available to select eligible customers in New York for $20 per month.

The Bigger Picture

DraftKings’ move to launch Sportsbook+ demonstrates a keen understanding of market dynamics. As sportsbooks compete to retain and grow their user base, innovative offerings like this one help differentiate brands and provide added value.

The focus on parlay bets highlights an industry-wide shift towards products that enhance engagement while maintaining profitability. With Sportsbook+, DraftKings is banking on the appeal of bigger payouts, unlimited boosts, and exclusive perks to stay ahead in the competitive betting market.

As the company continues to refine its offerings, Sportsbook+ could serve as a blueprint for subscription-based services in other states, marking another step in DraftKings’ expansion strategy.
January 7, 2025
ASEAN Gaming Summit Set to Make a Grand Return in Manila
The ASEAN Gaming Summit is back for its 7th edition, with registrations now open for the March 2025 event at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila.

A Global Gathering for the Gaming Industry

The ASEAN Gaming Summit, organized by Asia Gaming Brief, has firmly established itself as one of the premier events in the international gaming calendar. Scheduled for 17-19 March 2025, the three-day conference will take place at the prestigious Shangri-La The Fort in Manila, Philippines.

The event builds on the success of its 2024 edition, which saw a record turnout of nearly 1,600 participants representing diverse countries, including the Philippines, Australia, Macau, Germany, and beyond. With this year’s focus on innovation and adapting to shifting regulatory landscapes, the summit is expected to draw an even broader audience of gaming professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders.

Spotlight on Changing Regulations and Emerging Markets

Regulatory changes across ASEAN countries will be front and centre at this year’s summit. The conference will provide a platform for stakeholders to explore the challenges and opportunities presented by the region’s evolving legal frameworks. As consumer trends shift and new gaming technologies emerge, industry leaders will share insights into navigating these changes across both remote and in-property gaming sectors.

Discussions will focus on diverse topics such as:
- The implications of regulatory updates across key ASEAN markets.
- Emerging technologies in gaming, including remote gaming innovations.
- The evolving preferences of Asia’s gaming consumers and their global impact.
The summit offers a rare opportunity for stakeholders from various disciplines to exchange ideas and collaborate on shaping the future of the gaming industry.

Asia Gaming Awards: Celebrating Excellence

A key highlight of the conference will be the Asia Gaming Awards 2025, scheduled for Tuesday, 18 March. This glamorous ceremony celebrates outstanding achievements within the gaming sector, recognizing excellence among industry peers.

The awards bring together some of the most prominent names in gaming, fostering a sense of community and inspiring innovation among participants. With categories ranging from operational excellence to groundbreaking technology, the awards are highly anticipated by attendees.

Strong Support from Industry Leaders

Asia Gaming Brief has expressed gratitude to DST Gaming, the lead sponsor for this year’s summit, along with other longstanding sponsors who have supported the event over the years. Their contributions reflect the industry’s commitment to driving innovation and collaboration in the gaming space.

Organizers have also announced that Early Bird tickets are now available for a limited time, allowing participants to secure their spots at a discounted rate. Given the summit’s reputation and last year’s overwhelming attendance, these tickets are expected to sell out quickly.

A Glimpse of What to Expect

For those looking to join, here’s what the ASEAN Gaming Summit promises to deliver:
- Networking opportunities: Meet policymakers, regulators, and industry peers from over 20 countries.
- Engaging panels and keynotes: Learn from experts about the latest trends and strategies in gaming.
- Exclusive industry insights: Stay ahead of the curve with actionable takeaways on regulatory and market trends.
- Celebratory moments: Be part of the Asia Gaming Awards ceremony, a night dedicated to industry achievements.
The ASEAN Gaming Summit continues to be a beacon for innovation and collaboration within the gaming industry. As it returns for its 7th edition, it offers an unmatched platform for participants to exchange ideas, foster connections, and shape the future of gaming across the ASEAN region and beyond.
January 7, 2025
Philippines Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal POGO Workers, Targeting Over 11,000 Foreign Nationals
The Philippine government is ramping up its efforts to deport more than 11,000 foreign nationals tied to the now-banned Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) industry. Declared illegal aliens, these individuals are the focus of a nationwide manhunt by the Bureau of Immigration (BI). The crackdown underscores the administration’s firm stance on eradicating illegal activities linked to the controversial gaming sector.

A Nationwide Effort to Enforce Compliance

Bureau of Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado shared striking figures on the matter. Before the ban, 33,863 POGO workers were officially registered under the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). While 22,609 of these workers left the country before the December 31 deadline, 11,254 remain in the Philippines, defying the government’s directive.

Viado did not mince words when addressing the situation: “These foreign nationals who continue to disobey this will be arrested, deported, and blacklisted. No exceptions.” He issued a stern warning to companies employing these individuals, urging them to cooperate with authorities. Those found sheltering or concealing illegal workers risk being charged with harboring illegal aliens.

Registered POGO workers (before ban): 33,863

Workers who downgraded visas: 24,779

Workers who left the country: 22,609

Workers remaining unlawfully: 11,254

Coordinated Action Across Agencies

The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has echoed the call for strict enforcement, particularly against property owners enabling illegal POGO operations. Gilbert Cruz, PAOCC’s Executive Director, highlighted a troubling shift in these operations. Operators are downsizing into discreet setups in walled compounds or business districts frequented by foreign nationals, complicating detection efforts.

Cruz also warned property owners that premises used for illegal activities are subject to seizure under criminal forfeiture laws. “Those who knowingly support illegal POGO operations will not be spared,” he stated.

To further tighten the noose, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has instructed local government units (LGUs) to issue “No POGO” certificates by the end of January. This certification process involves stringent inspections of residential and commercial properties, including checks on permits for occupancy, electricity, and fire safety compliance.

Spotlight on Fraudulent Citizenship Documents

Another concerning dimension of the crackdown is the use of fraudulent birth certificates by some foreign nationals to obtain Filipino citizenship. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has emphasized the importance of nullifying these fake documents, calling it a critical step in restoring the integrity of the country’s civil records.

The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) has committed to revoking fraudulent documents and seizing assets acquired illegally by these individuals. “This is a matter of national security and economic fairness,” an OSG representative noted, reinforcing the government’s resolve.

Challenges in Tracking Illegal Workers

The pursuit of illegal POGO workers has not been without obstacles. Authorities report that operators have become increasingly elusive, adopting sophisticated methods to evade detection. This includes the use of high-security compounds and blending into dense urban districts with large expatriate populations.

Despite these challenges, the government’s multi-agency approach appears well-coordinated:

BI: Spearheading arrests and deportations.

PAOCC: Cracking down on property owners aiding illegal operators.

DILG: Enforcing “No POGO” certificates through LGUs.

OSG: Targeting fraudulent documents and illegal assets.

A Broader Push Against Illegal Gambling

The POGO ban is part of a broader effort by the Philippine government to combat illegal gambling and its associated criminal activities. Authorities argue that the industry, while initially promising economic benefits, has been marred by scandals, including money laundering, fraud, and human trafficking.

The crackdown sends a clear message: the Philippines will not tolerate illegal activities that undermine public trust, strain local resources, or jeopardize the nation’s international reputation. As enforcement continues, stakeholders are urged to cooperate or face severe consequences.
January 7, 2025