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  • Tribes Warn CFTC That Prediction Markets Threaten Sovereignty and Gaming Revenue

    Tribes Warn CFTC That Prediction Markets Threaten Sovereignty and Gaming Revenue

    Native American tribes are pushing back against the expansion of prediction markets into sports event contracts, arguing that the move threatens their sovereignty and could undercut billions of dollars in gaming revenue. Their concerns have been submitted to the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) ahead of a major roundtable discussion scheduled for April 30, 2025.

    Strong Opposition from Tribal Entities

    The public comment period on the CFTC’s review of prediction markets drew 19 submissions, with more than half—11 in total—coming from tribal entities. That level of unity is rare in Indian Country, underscoring the deep concern about how federally regulated sports contracts could impact tribal gaming.

    At the core of their argument is the belief that allowing sports contracts to be listed and traded undermines existing gaming agreements under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). These agreements give tribes exclusive rights to operate certain types of gaming, often in exchange for revenue-sharing deals with states.

    One tribal organization put it bluntly: “Allowing sports contracts to be listed and traded will interfere with the sovereign right of tribes and states to exercise their police power to regulate gaming,” the Indian Gaming Association (IGA) wrote in its submission to the CFTC.

    Billions at Stake in Revenue-Sharing Agreements

    Tribes warn that the financial consequences of expanding prediction markets could be massive.

    Gaming compacts between states and tribal nations generate billions in revenue, funding essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. If prediction markets are allowed to enter the space unchecked, tribes argue, they could siphon off money that would otherwise flow to tribal communities.

    • Many gaming compacts include revenue-sharing provisions that could be weakened if prediction markets disrupt the industry.
    • Unlike tribal casinos, prediction markets are not subject to gaming taxes or responsible gambling measures, creating an uneven playing field.
    • Tribes fear that new federally regulated markets could bypass state-level gambling laws entirely, eroding their exclusivity rights.

    The Growing Footprint of Prediction Markets

    Platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket have already expanded from political and cultural event contracts into sports betting-style markets. While legal at the federal level, these markets operate across all 50 states without the same restrictions placed on traditional gaming operators.

    This raises concerns about fairness. Tribal casinos and state-licensed sportsbooks must adhere to strict regulations, while prediction markets enjoy a different set of rules. Critics argue that this creates an unfair competitive advantage for platforms that aren’t required to contribute tax revenue or fund responsible gambling programs.

    A key question for regulators is whether sports event contracts should be classified as gaming—a category that falls under state jurisdiction—or as financial instruments, which would place them under federal oversight. The answer could have major implications for both tribes and the broader gambling industry.

    What’s Next?

    With the CFTC’s roundtable on April 30 fast approaching, the debate over prediction markets is heating up. Tribes are making it clear they want a seat at the table, warning that any move to approve sports contracts without their input could trigger legal challenges.

    For now, the future of these markets remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: Native American tribes are prepared to fight to protect their gaming sovereignty.

  • Estonia Plans Gambling Act Revisions, But No Major Restrictions in Sight

    Estonia Plans Gambling Act Revisions, But No Major Restrictions in Sight

    Estonia is set to update its 2008 Gambling Act, but the changes won’t be as drastic as some might expect. The Ministry of Finance is drafting amendments aimed at refining regulations, with no immediate plans to introduce tougher restrictions. The proposals, expected by mid-2025, will focus on fine-tuning online gaming rules, self-exclusion mechanisms, gambling taxation, and advertising policies. Implementation is likely in early 2026.

    What’s Changing? A Look at the Key Amendments

    The upcoming revisions are more about regulation adjustments than strict crackdowns. Officials aim to modernize Estonia’s gambling framework while keeping the industry stable.

    • Online gaming regulations will be refined to ensure compliance with evolving digital gambling trends.
    • Self-exclusion mechanisms may be strengthened to offer better protection for at-risk gamblers.
    • Gambling taxation rules will be reviewed, though no additional tax hikes are planned for 2025.
    • Advertising guidelines may be adjusted to limit aggressive marketing while maintaining industry viability.

    One notable absence in the amendments: loot boxes and virtual currency purchases in video games. These remain untouched, signaling that Estonia doesn’t currently see them as a regulatory priority.

    Gambling Taxes: Where They Stand and What’s Next

    Taxation is always a hot topic when it comes to gambling, and Estonia made some notable changes in 2024.

    • Remote gambling, Toto, and tournament tax increased from 5% to 6%.
    • Lottery ticket sales tax jumped from 18% to 22%.

    Despite these hikes, there are no additional tax increases scheduled for 2025. However, the Ministry of Finance will be closely monitoring the impact of these adjustments on revenue and industry behavior.

    Where Does the Money Go? The Role of Gambling Tax Revenue

    Gambling tax revenue plays a crucial role in funding public initiatives in Estonia. A significant portion of these funds is directed toward the Estonian Cultural Endowment and various sports programs.

    The government’s approach has been to strike a balance—ensuring that gambling continues to generate revenue for key sectors without encouraging reckless betting behavior.

    Addressing Gambling Addiction: A Growing Concern

    Officials have pointed to an increase in what they call the “pre-addiction phases of gambling.” Economic struggles have contributed to riskier gambling behaviors, raising concerns among regulators.

    To tackle this, the Ministry of Finance will be taking a closer look at:

    • In-play betting mechanics, which allow gamblers to place bets during live events.
    • Gambling incentives, such as bonuses and promotions that could encourage excessive betting.

    While outright bans or severe restrictions aren’t on the table, tweaks to these mechanics could be introduced to reduce gambling-related harm.

    The Road Ahead for Estonia’s Gambling Industry

    With amendments in the pipeline, Estonia’s gambling industry will see some changes, but nothing too disruptive. The focus is on refining existing laws rather than overhauling them.

    The coming months will be crucial as the Ministry finalizes its proposals. Stakeholders—both industry players and consumer protection advocates—will be watching closely to see how the revisions take shape before they go into effect in early 2026.

  • Macau Casino Revenue Rebounds in February, But Full Recovery Remains Elusive

    Macau Casino Revenue Rebounds in February, But Full Recovery Remains Elusive

    Macau’s casino industry saw a much-needed rebound in February, raking in 19.74 billion patacas (US$2.47 billion) in gross gaming revenue (GGR). The increase—8% higher than January’s figures and up 6.8% year-on-year—ended a two-month slump. But while the numbers show signs of stability, the road to pre-pandemic recovery remains bumpy.

    February Brings Relief After Two Months of Decline

    For the first time in three months, Macau’s casinos posted a year-on-year increase in revenue. December 2024 had kicked off a downward trend, with GGR slipping 2% to 18.2 billion patacas (US$2.27 billion). The decline deepened in January 2025, when revenue dropped 5.6% compared to the previous year, landing at 18.25 billion patacas (US$2.26 billion).

    The turnaround in February came at a critical time. The Chinese New Year holiday, spanning from January 28 to February 4, provided a much-needed boost. The extended festivities, coupled with a strong weekend, helped lift Macau’s gaming revenue back into positive territory.

    But not everyone is celebrating just yet. Despite the bounce, February’s revenue is still only 78% of what Macau pulled in during the same month in 2019. That gap serves as a reminder that full recovery is still a work in progress.

    Chinese New Year and Tourism Give Casinos a Boost

    A surge in visitors played a crucial role in February’s revenue increase. Macau welcomed a steady influx of tourists during the Chinese New Year break, with many making their way to the city’s iconic casinos. The holiday traditionally drives strong gaming numbers, and this year was no exception.

    While the increased foot traffic was a welcome sight, it also underscored the changing nature of Macau’s casino market. Once dominated by VIP high rollers, the city’s gaming industry has been shifting toward a more mass-market, tourism-friendly model.

    Some key takeaways from the February rebound:

    • Chinese New Year provided a temporary boost, but sustainability remains uncertain.
    • Visitor numbers were strong, but VIP gambling remains far below pre-pandemic levels.
    • Casinos are still adapting to a more regulated, family-oriented tourism strategy.

    The first two months of 2025 have put Macau slightly ahead of 2024’s performance, but the question remains: can the momentum last?

    Xi Jinping’s Visit and the Impact of Security Measures

    December’s revenue dip wasn’t just a seasonal slowdown. Analysts have pointed to Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit for the Macau handover celebrations as a major factor.

    Strict security protocols during the visit led to fewer high-stakes gamblers and a more subdued casino floor atmosphere. That decline carried into January, as some VIP players may have opted to stay away longer.

    This pattern highlights a broader issue—Macau’s reliance on external factors. Policy shifts, regulatory changes, and government-led initiatives all play a role in shaping the industry’s future. And with Beijing continuing to push for a more diversified economy, the days of unchecked gaming growth seem to be over.

    The Long Road Back to Pre-Pandemic Levels

    Even with February’s rebound, Macau’s casino revenue is still lagging behind its pre-2020 highs. The industry faces several challenges:

    1. Loss of VIP Gamblers – Beijing’s crackdown on junket operators has significantly reduced high-stakes play, once a major driver of Macau’s revenue.
    2. Tighter Regulations – The government has been pushing for more oversight, leading to a more controlled gaming environment.
    3. Diversification Efforts – Casinos are being encouraged to invest in non-gaming attractions, shifting the city’s focus away from pure gambling revenue.

    For now, the numbers are heading in the right direction, but a full recovery remains uncertain. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Macau can sustain its growth—or if February was just a temporary boost.

  • Bally’s Chicago $250 Million IPO Stalled at SEC, Investor Deposits Refunded

    Bally’s Chicago $250 Million IPO Stalled at SEC, Investor Deposits Refunded

    Bally’s attempt to raise $250 million from minority investors for Chicago’s first casino has hit a regulatory roadblock. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has yet to approve the initial public offering (IPO), forcing the company to refund deposits and put its fundraising plans on hold.

    IPO Delay Disrupts Bally’s Minority Ownership Commitment

    Bally’s IPO was designed to meet Chicago’s requirement for 25% minority ownership in its upcoming $1.7 billion casino and entertainment complex. However, the offering, which began in January, failed to close on schedule in February. The SEC did not declare the registration effective before Bally’s financial statements became outdated, invalidating the prospectus.

    Bally’s Chairman Soo Kim expressed frustration over the SEC’s silence. “It was disappointing for the SEC to not respond,” Kim said Thursday. “We’re going to come back. We’re going to update our financials and resubmit, but we don’t know why they didn’t respond the first time, and they may not respond the second time.”

    Refunds Issued as Investors Wait for New Offering

    With the IPO stalled, Bally’s was left with no choice but to return funds to minority investors who had committed capital. The offering was structured to allow women and minority investors to buy into the project with shares priced between $250 and $25,000.

    The company now plans to update its financial statements and refile with the SEC in March. The goal is to relaunch the IPO and secure the minority ownership participation required under its agreement with the city.

    One investor who had participated in the IPO expressed disappointment over the delay. “I was excited to be part of this project, and now we’re just waiting to see if it even happens,” they said.

    SEC’s Silence Leaves Unanswered Questions

    The SEC has not publicly commented on why it did not approve Bally’s registration before the financial statements expired. This lack of communication leaves Bally’s and its investors in limbo.

    While delays in IPO approvals are not unusual, particularly for complex offerings involving regulatory commitments, the lack of clarity on Bally’s application raises concerns about whether the SEC sees potential issues with the structure of the offering.

    For now, Bally’s must wait and hope that a resubmission in March clears the regulatory hurdle.

    Federal Lawsuit Adds Another Layer of Uncertainty

    Complicating matters further is an ongoing federal lawsuit challenging Bally’s IPO structure. The lawsuit, filed by opponents who claim the investor restrictions discriminate against white men, sought to block the IPO.

    A Chicago federal judge denied an injunction against the offering earlier this month, but the broader legal battle continues. If the court ultimately sides with the plaintiffs, Bally’s may have to revise its approach to minority investment altogether.

    While Bally’s remains committed to its Chicago casino project, this combination of regulatory and legal challenges could slow progress significantly. The company, investors, and city officials will be watching closely as the situation unfolds.

  • Chino Rheem Captures Another PGT Mixed Games Title, Climbing to the Top of the Leaderboard

    Chino Rheem Captures Another PGT Mixed Games Title, Climbing to the Top of the Leaderboard

    It was a weekend to remember for Chino Rheem at the PokerGO Tour (PGT) Mixed Games festival. The seasoned pro, known for his fearless play and high-stakes success, made a statement by finishing third in the $10,000 H.O.R.S.E. event on Friday, securing a $114,000 payday. But he didn’t stop there. Just 24 hours later, Rheem went all the way in the $10,000 eight-game mix, outlasting a field of 92 entries to pocket $195,500 and the championship.

    With $309,500 in earnings from just two events, Rheem has surged to the top of the festival’s points leaderboard as the final stretch of tournaments looms. It’s a familiar position for the three-time World Poker Tour (WPT) champion, who previously dominated the PGT Mixed Games II series in 2023.

    Rheem’s Mixed Games Mastery on Full Display

    Rheem has long been a force in tournament poker, but his recent dominance in mixed-game formats is turning heads. His ability to navigate through various poker variants has earned him millions, including a seventh-place finish in the 2008 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event.

    His total career earnings now exceed $15.6 million, thanks to his latest deep runs at the PokerGO Studio inside ARIA Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. The mixed-game format requires adaptability, and Rheem’s versatility across disciplines like stud, Omaha, and lowball games proved crucial.

    The eight-game victory didn’t come easy. The $920,000 prize pool meant a stacked field, with top pros battling for a piece of the action. Fourteen players made the money, including notable names like:

    • Mike Gorodinsky (13th) – Three-time WSOP bracelet winner
    • Nick Guagenti (9th) – Two-time bracelet winner
    • Ray Dehkharghani (8th) – Bracelet winner and mixed-game specialist

    Despite the tough competition, Rheem found a way to outmaneuver his opponents and secure the title.

    A Final Table Full of Talent

    The tournament’s last day began with just seven players left and Brian Breck holding the chip lead. But as the blinds increased and games rotated, the dynamic shifted.

    Alexander Livingston, a two-time WSOP bracelet winner, was the first to exit in seventh place, earning $36,800. His final hand came in a round of stud, where he ran into Rheem’s ace-high flush. From there, Rheem continued his climb, turning a short-stack start into an eventual victory.

    As the action progressed, the remaining players fought for every pot, but Rheem’s momentum carried him to the top. His ability to adjust to different poker formats—switching from limit hold’em to triple draw to Omaha hi-lo—kept him ahead of the competition.

    What’s Next for Rheem?

    With three tournaments left in the PGT Mixed Games festival, all eyes are on Rheem. He’s the current points leader, and another strong showing could cement his status as the series champion for the second time in less than two years.

    Winning back-to-back mixed-game series would be no small feat. The field is loaded with elite players, and the ever-changing nature of mixed games makes consistency difficult. But if his recent performances are any indication, Rheem is more than up for the challenge.

    One thing is certain—his ability to perform under pressure, read his opponents, and shift gears when needed makes him a dangerous force at any poker table.

  • Alan Keating Breaks Down High-Stakes Poker Hero Call in YouTube Video

    Alan Keating Breaks Down High-Stakes Poker Hero Call in YouTube Video

    Alan Keating has built a reputation as one of the most thrilling players to watch in live-streamed poker. His loose-aggressive style often leads to massive pots and jaw-dropping plays. Now, he’s giving fans a deeper look into his mind. In a newly released YouTube video, Keating walks through one of his most memorable hands from PokerGO’s High Stakes Poker, where he made a gutsy hero call against Peter Wang in a pot nearing $1 million.

    A Million-Dollar Moment at the Table

    Poker fans love Keating for his unpredictable, high-stakes style, but this time, he did something rare—he explained his thinking. The hand in question unfolded during a high-stakes cash game where Wang attempted a triple-barrel bluff, only for Keating to sniff it out.

    It started with a raise from the cutoff, a call from Wang on the button, and Keating defending his big blind with 9♦️7♦️. The flop brought A♣️K♠️7♠️, and things escalated fast. The cutoff bet $4,000, Wang raised to $13,000, and Keating took an aggressive route, three-betting to $41,000. That forced out the original raiser, but Wang wasn’t backing down—he called.

    The 6♥️ hit the turn, and Keating continued his aggression, betting $58,000. Wang turned up the heat, raising to $175,000. Still, Keating wasn’t ready to let go. He called.

    Then came the 4♥️ on the river. Keating checked, and Wang fired a massive bet—enough to put Keating all in for his last $235,000. It was a moment of truth. After some thought, Keating called and won, securing a pot just shy of seven figures.

    Keating Breaks Down the Thought Process

    Instead of just celebrating the win, Keating decided to pull back the curtain on how he reached his decision. His YouTube video walks through every step of the hand, shedding light on the factors that led to his incredible call.

    He noted that Wang had built a reputation as an aggressive player in these high-stakes streams. The two had clashed in multiple massive pots before, both on PokerGO’s High Stakes Poker and Hustler Casino Live. This prior knowledge played a crucial role in Keating’s ability to put Wang on a bluff.

    Keating explained how his three-bet on the flop was designed to take control of the hand. When Wang raised on the turn, it set off alarms—was he representing a monster or just applying pressure? Given Wang’s tendency to stay aggressive, Keating leaned toward the latter.

    By the river, Keating saw a pattern. The size of Wang’s final bet, coupled with the previous action, made it less likely he had a strong hand. With just a pair of sevens, Keating took the gamble—and was rewarded.

    What This Hand Means for Poker Strategy

    Keating’s decision wasn’t just about gut instinct. It highlighted deeper concepts that separate elite players from the rest.

    • Understanding opponent tendencies: Wang’s history of aggressive plays influenced Keating’s call.
    • Recognizing betting patterns: Keating’s call wasn’t based on his hand strength alone but on how Wang structured his bets.
    • Controlling the pot: Keating’s flop three-bet set the tone early, keeping Wang’s range wide and making his later bluffs more transparent.

    These factors aren’t exclusive to high-stakes games. Even mid- and low-stakes players can learn from Keating’s analysis. Recognizing patterns, knowing when to apply pressure, and making tough calls based on more than just hand strength are critical skills at any level.

    The Legacy of Keating’s Call

    This hand won’t just be another highlight in Keating’s career—it’s the kind of moment that poker fans will reference for years. High-stakes poker is about more than just big money; it’s about making decisions under immense pressure, and Keating proved why he belongs among the best.

    His YouTube breakdown adds another layer, showing that even the most fearless players rely on strategy, logic, and history—not just gut feeling. As long as Keating keeps entertaining poker fans, future players will be learning from his moves for years to come.

  • Ryan Miller Claims PokerGO Mixed Games $10,000 H.O.R.S.E. Title in Star-Studded Finale

    Ryan Miller Claims PokerGO Mixed Games $10,000 H.O.R.S.E. Title in Star-Studded Finale

    An elite field of 95 poker heavyweights battled it out in the 2025 PokerGO Tour Mixed Games $10,000 H.O.R.S.E. event. When the dust settled, it was Ryan Miller who emerged victorious, bagging $247,000 and his latest major title. The two-time WSOP bracelet winner outlasted a stacked final table at the PokerGO Studio in ARIA Resort & Casino, Las Vegas.

    A Career Milestone for Miller

    For Miller, this win is among his biggest achievements in live tournament poker. His $247,000 payday ranks as his second-largest cash, only trailing the $344,677 he won in 2023 for taking down the WSOP Stud Eight-or-Better Championship. The Pennsylvania native has now surpassed $1.3 million in recorded tournament earnings, with most of his success coming at the WSOP.

    Beyond the cash prize, Miller also secured 540 Card Player Player of the Year (POY) points. That boost propelled him into the top 200 of the 2025 POY leaderboard, presented by Global Poker.

    Big Names Fall Before the Final Table

    The tournament started with 95 players, but only 14 cashed, splitting the $950,000 prize pool. The money bubble burst late on Day 1, sending several high-profile players to the rail.

    Among the notable names eliminated before the final table were:

    • Yuri Dzivielevski (13th, $19,000) – The five-time bracelet winner fell just after the bubble burst.
    • Daniel Negreanu (9th, $29,500) – The seven-time bracelet winner couldn’t convert a deep run into a final table appearance.
    • Nick Guagenti (8th, $33,250) – The two-time bracelet winner just missed the last seven.

    With that, Day 2 began with seven players left and Miller leading the pack.

    Early Exits at the Final Table

    It didn’t take long for eliminations to start rolling in. First out was five-time WSOP bracelet winner Robert Mizrachi (7th, $38,000). He committed his last chips in a hand of Stud Eight-or-Better, but his pair of aces and flush draw failed to improve against Miller’s kings up.

    Next to go was Alexander Livingston (6th, $47,500). The 2019 WSOP Main Event third-place finisher fought hard on a short stack but fell in an Omaha Eight-or-Better hand. Holding A-2 for the nut low draw, he watched as Miller scooped the high side with a full house, while Chino Rheem secured the low.

    Another former WSOP champion, Johannes Becker (5th, $66,500), bowed out in a round of Razz. He started strong but caught bad runouts, allowing Samuel Sternfield to make an 8-7-5-4-A, sending Becker to the rail. With this cash, Becker is now closing in on $4.4 million in career tournament earnings.

    The Final Four Battle for Glory

    With only four players left, the intensity ramped up. Sternfield, Rheem, and Miller each took turns holding the chip lead. The structure of H.O.R.S.E., a rotating mix of Hold’em, Omaha, Razz, Stud, and Stud Eight-or-Better, tested every player’s versatility.

    One defining moment came in a round of Stud, where Rheem lost a crucial hand to Miller, shifting momentum in the latter’s favor. Miller continued to apply pressure, using his deep mixed-game experience to outmaneuver his opponents.

    A Well-Deserved Victory

    By the time it reached heads-up play, Miller had a commanding lead. His opponent fought hard but couldn’t overcome the gap. In the final hand, Miller locked up the title with a strong Stud Eight-or-Better hand, securing another prestigious win in his growing poker career.

    With this victory, Miller adds another accolade to his already impressive resume. As 2025 unfolds, he’s undoubtedly a player to watch, especially with WSOP season just a few months away.

  • Jeremy Ausmus Triumphs Over Record-Breaking 391-Entry Field in Triton Poker Jeju $25,000 Event

    Jeremy Ausmus Triumphs Over Record-Breaking 391-Entry Field in Triton Poker Jeju $25,000 Event

    Jeremy Ausmus has once again etched his name in poker history. The six-time World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet winner battled through a massive 391-entry field in the 2025 Triton Poker Super High Roller Series $25,000 no-limit hold’em eight-max event, securing his first Triton Poker title and an impressive $1,892,000 payday.

    This event shattered previous records, marking the largest field Triton Poker has ever seen. The competition was fierce, with some of the best players in the world chasing the title, but it was Ausmus who emerged victorious.

    A Career-Defining Victory

    For Ausmus, this win isn’t just about the money—though the $1.89 million certainly doesn’t hurt. This was the third-largest score of his illustrious career. The Las Vegas poker pro now boasts more than $26.6 million in recorded live tournament earnings across an astonishing 374 cashes.

    At 45, Ausmus continues to prove he’s one of the most consistent players in the game. While many players struggle with longevity in the high-stakes circuit, he keeps adding titles to his name. This latest win adds another prestigious trophy to his collection, solidifying his status as one of the game’s elite.

    The Hand That Almost Ended It All

    Poker is a game of skill, but sometimes, fate plays a hand. Ausmus found himself in a perilous situation when the tournament was down to its final 23 players.

    He picked up pocket kings—a monster hand—but ran into Aliaksandr Shylko’s pocket aces. What happened next was pure chaos. Due to a miscalculated raise, Ausmus’ initial bet was ruled too small, forcing him into a limp instead. Shylko raised, then flat-called Ausmus’ three-bet.

    Had the hand played out differently, Ausmus might have gone all-in preflop, likely resulting in elimination. Instead, Shylko hit quads and still took a sizable chunk of Ausmus’ stack, but crucially, Ausmus survived. That fortunate twist allowed him to keep fighting—and eventually claim the title.

    Climbing to the Top of the POY Standings

    Winning this massive event came with more than just prize money. Ausmus picked up 2,100 Card Player Player of the Year (POY) points, propelling him to the top of the 2025 standings with 2,870 points.

    • This was his third POY-qualified final table of the year.
    • He previously won the $1 million PGT Championship Invitational, capping off his 2024 PokerGO Tour season-long points race win.
    • The POY race, sponsored by Global Poker, is now led by Ausmus, who has put himself in a strong position early in the year.

    If he maintains this form, he could be on track for one of the biggest years of his career.

    A Stacked Final Table

    It wasn’t an easy road to victory. The final table featured some of the most feared high-stakes players in the world. While every Triton event attracts elite competition, this one was particularly stacked.

    Final Table Highlights:

    • Ausmus stayed patient, picking his spots wisely.
    • He managed to build his stack steadily rather than relying on one massive double-up.
    • His experience shined through in the crucial late-stage hands, where every decision could mean the difference between victory and elimination.

    The Growing Prestige of Triton Poker

    Triton Poker events continue to be among the most prestigious in the poker world. The Super High Roller Series has attracted an increasing number of top-tier professionals, and record fields like this one only add to its growing reputation.

    One reason Triton events are so appealing is their unique mix of elite pros and wealthy recreational players. The combination creates massive prize pools, high-level competition, and some of the most exciting poker action of the year.

    What’s Next for Ausmus?

    After this career-defining win, all eyes will be on Ausmus to see if he can keep the momentum going. With the 2025 poker calendar stacked with big events, there’s no doubt he’ll be in contention for more titles—and perhaps another deep run in the WSOP later this year.

    Ausmus has already secured a place in poker history, but with the way he’s playing, he might just be getting started.

  • Texas Lottery Commission Moves to Ban Courier Sales After $83 Million Jackpot Sparks Controversy

    Texas Lottery Commission Moves to Ban Courier Sales After $83 Million Jackpot Sparks Controversy

    The Texas Lottery Commission has decided to put an end to lottery ticket courier services, a move that comes amid growing scrutiny over a recent $83.5 million jackpot win. State officials are raising concerns about the legitimacy and security of these online lottery sales, leading to a major policy shift that could reshape how Texans buy their tickets.

    Commission Cracks Down on Couriers

    On Monday, the Texas Lottery Commission (TLC) took a firm stance against third-party couriers that facilitate lottery ticket purchases through apps and websites. Executive Director Ryan Mindell made it clear that these services are not permitted under Texas law.

    Mindell warned that unregulated couriers create risks that go beyond just unauthorized sales.

    • Potential for money laundering through anonymous purchases
    • Fraudulent ticket sales and misrepresentation of official lottery affiliations
    • Lack of oversight in customer transactions

    The TLC plans to introduce rule changes at an open meeting on March 4, followed by a 30-day public comment period. This represents a significant departure from Mindell’s previous stance, where he claimed the commission lacked the authority to regulate or prohibit courier sales.

    Lieutenant Governor Calls Out the Sudden Policy Shift

    Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick isn’t buying the TLC’s change of heart. He believes the timing is suspicious, given that just days ago, he personally investigated a store where the winning $83 million ticket was sold.

    Patrick took to social media, blasting the commission’s decision:

    “Suddenly, only six days after I visited a store that sold the winning lottery ticket, the Commission quickly announced they would end all courier services. I now have even less confidence in the integrity of the Lottery Commission with this abrupt turnaround.”

    Patrick has long pushed to eliminate courier services, citing concerns over transparency and potential fraud. The Texas Senate already passed a bill in 2023 to ban these services, but it stalled in the House.

    “If the Lottery Commission thinks this ends our investigation, they are wrong,” Patrick warned. “We will restore the integrity of the Texas Lottery so people can trust its fairness. Otherwise, the Senate will end the lottery this session.”

    Industry Pushback: “This Ban is Unnecessary”

    Courier service providers aren’t taking the decision lightly. A spokesperson for the Coalition of Texas Lottery Couriers called the move unnecessary and abrupt, arguing that a regulatory solution should have been considered instead.

    Many courier companies had hoped that HB 3201, a bill proposing oversight rather than a ban, would provide a compromise. Instead, the TLC’s latest decision leaves them scrambling for options.

    The Bigger Problem: Texas Lottery’s Oversight Issues

    This controversy isn’t just about online lottery sales. Lawmakers and watchdog groups have raised concerns about how the Texas Lottery is being managed.

    • Past hearings revealed lapses in monitoring bulk ticket purchases.
    • Some executives allegedly operated in legal gray areas, allowing questionable practices.
    • The Texas Lottery’s contributions to education funding could be at risk if public trust declines.

    Governor Greg Abbott has taken notice. He directed the Texas Rangers to investigate not just the $83.5 million jackpot, but also a previous $95 million win in 2023 that stemmed from a bulk ticket purchase.

    “Texans must be able to trust in our state’s lottery system,” Abbott said. “We need to ensure that every dollar is accounted for and that the lottery is conducted lawfully and transparently.”

    What’s Next?

    The upcoming March 4 meeting will be critical in determining the fate of courier services in Texas. Public comments could influence the final decision, but given the political pressure from state leaders, a reversal seems unlikely.

    Meanwhile, the Texas Rangers’ investigation could uncover deeper issues within the lottery system. If they find evidence of misconduct, it could shake the foundation of Texas’ lottery operations altogether.

    For now, Texans who rely on courier services may need to start heading to physical retailers for their tickets. And as the investigation unfolds, bigger changes could be on the horizon.

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