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  • Ortak x B.F.T.H. Arena Awards 3.0 Reveals List of Winners for 2024 Edition

    Ortak x B.F.T.H. Arena Awards 3.0 Reveals List of Winners for 2024 Edition

    The Ortak x B.F.T.H. Arena Awards 3.0 celebrated the very best of online gaming innovation in the UAE on December 13, with a grand event held at the InterContinental hotel in Ras Al Khaimah. Over 70 game providers submitted more than 160 entries, showcasing the creativity and forward-thinking concepts that are shaping the future of the gaming industry.

    The evening highlighted new milestones, with Ortak taking center stage to present its latest retention tool, the PopOK Property Raffle campaign. Introduced by BetConstruct Co-Founder Vigen Badalyan during his December 12 presentation, the tool was designed to benefit all Ortak stakeholders, including those operating white-label marketplaces. The event also provided attendees the chance to experience this new feature firsthand, while participating in the inaugural PopOK Property Raffle, offering a luxury apartment and 42,800 additional prizes.

    Revamped Categories for the 2024 Awards

    This year, the Ortak x B.F.T.H. Arena Awards featured a revamped list of categories, making room for innovative concepts to be celebrated. The newly introduced categories reflect the ever-evolving nature of the gaming sector, recognising outstanding achievements across a variety of disciplines.

    Among the winners, SmartSoft Gaming’s Balloon FTN bagged the title of Best FTN Casino Game, while PoggiPlay’s Seazaster claimed Best Online Casino Game. For the Ortak platform, BoomBay by Lambda Gaming was crowned Best Ortak Casino Game, and Red Baron by Spin2Win triumphed as Best Ortak Crash Game. The winners also included Immortal Ways Buffalo by Ruby Play (Best Ortak Slot Game) and Live Roulette by Live Vegas (Best Ortak Live Casino Game).

    Other notable winners included VBET, which won Best YoCerebrum Casino Space, and Joker Cashpot by ELA Games, which was awarded Best Innovative Gamification Feature. The Highest Value Ortak Collection was claimed by Evolution’s FTN Crazy Time, while Top 5 Football Leagues by BetConstruct took home the Highest Turnover Ortak Collection award.

    One of the most anticipated accolades, the Most Valued Ortak NFT, went to First Balloon by PopOK Gaming, and Fast Ortak was named Best Ortak of the Year. Print Studios was recognised as the Rising Star Provider, and Royal Riches Roulette by Live88 won the prestigious Game of Public Choice.

    The Role of Innovation and Recognition

    The Ortak x B.F.T.H. Arena Awards 3.0 were not only about recognising winners but also about highlighting the innovative spirit that continues to drive the online gaming industry forward. Each category’s winner represents a significant leap in gaming technology, game design, and user engagement.

    BetConstruct, the company behind Ortak, expressed its excitement about the high level of participation, noting that this year’s awards set a new bar for the industry. “The standards have been set higher for the next event, and we will witness even more innovation in the future,” said BetConstruct’s representative. The commitment to innovation was clearly visible in the presentation of the new PopOK Property Raffle tool, which is already expected to make a significant impact on how gaming platforms engage with their audiences.

    What’s Next for Ortak and the Industry?

    Looking ahead, Ortak x B.F.T.H. Arena Awards will continue to shine a spotlight on those who are pushing the boundaries of gaming, driving new trends, and setting the stage for what’s next in the industry. The integration of advanced features like gamification and NFTs is just the beginning. As the awards continue to grow, it’s clear that the focus will remain on the creators and developers who bring bold, fresh ideas to the table.

    The recognition and celebration of cutting-edge gaming developments are sure to inspire more game providers to step up their game in the years to come, ensuring that the world of online gaming remains as exciting and dynamic as ever.

  • Jamaica Set to Open First Casino at Princess Grand Jamaica Resort by 2025

    Jamaica Set to Open First Casino at Princess Grand Jamaica Resort by 2025

  • Maverick Gaming’s Legal Challenge to Washington State’s Tribal Sports Betting Monopoly Dismissed

    Maverick Gaming’s Legal Challenge to Washington State’s Tribal Sports Betting Monopoly Dismissed

    Maverick Gaming’s legal battle against Washington State’s exclusive tribal sports betting monopoly has come to an abrupt halt. Last week, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court’s dismissal of the case, delivered in February 2023, in a significant blow to the operator’s efforts to challenge the state’s tribal sports betting compact.

    The Challenge: A Bold Move by Maverick Gaming

    Maverick Gaming, a prominent Washington State card room operator, made headlines in 2022 when it filed a lawsuit against the state’s 2020 sports betting compact with tribal nations. The company had spent millions acquiring card rooms across the state, betting that the legislature would soon legalize commercial sports betting. However, in the wake of the 2020 compact, which granted exclusive sports betting rights to tribal operators, Maverick found itself at a disadvantage.

    The lawsuit argued that Washington’s 2020 compact violated the 10th Amendment and the Equal Protection Clause by granting exclusive sports betting rights to tribal nations. Maverick also claimed that the compact violated the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), which stipulates that tribes can only offer certain types of gaming if those games are available elsewhere in the state. According to Maverick, the law had been misused, giving tribes a monopoly on sports betting while excluding non-tribal operators like itself.

    Despite the legal challenge, the appeals court sided with the state’s tribal sports betting model. The judges ruled that the compact’s provisions were consistent with the federal law governing tribal gaming, and the exclusive rights given to tribes were within the scope of state sovereignty and federally protected tribal rights.

    What Went Wrong for Maverick?

    Maverick’s argument was rooted in claims that the state-sanctioned tribal monopoly on sports betting was unconstitutional. The company maintained that its substantial investments in card rooms across Washington State were meant to position it for success when the state finally legalized commercial sports betting. The 2020 compact, however, left Maverick and other non-tribal gaming operators on the sidelines, effectively cutting them out of a lucrative market.

    Despite the ambitious lawsuit, the court found Maverick’s arguments unconvincing. The ruling emphasized that Washington State’s compact with tribes was a matter of tribal sovereignty, a protected principle under federal law. This position was reinforced by the Shoalwater Bay Tribe’s involvement in the case. The tribe intervened, asserting that the lawsuit posed a direct threat to their sovereignty and would undermine their ability to negotiate gaming agreements with the state.

    Maverick’s legal team tried to argue that the compact violated the IGRA, but the courts disagreed. The judges ruled that the tribes were within their rights to offer sports betting exclusively, as long as it was available elsewhere in the state, which in this case, it was not. The decision hinged on the fact that Washington’s sports betting market was initially intended to be controlled by tribes, and the compact preserved their exclusive rights.

    A Lesson in Tribal Sovereignty

    One of the key elements of this case was the issue of tribal sovereignty. The tribes involved in the lawsuit argued that Maverick’s suit could undermine their legal protections under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). Tribes have historically fought to protect their rights to operate gaming establishments without state interference, and the compact was designed to reflect those rights.

    The Ninth Circuit Court echoed these sentiments, agreeing with the lower court’s finding that the dispute threatened the sovereignty of Washington’s tribal nations. The opinion emphasized that the economic impact of tribal gaming was crucial not only to the tribes themselves but also to the surrounding communities. The court also pointed out that the long-standing history of tribal gaming in Washington made it particularly sensitive to federal and state interests.

    The legal battle became more complex when the Shoalwater Bay Casino intervened in the case. The tribe argued that any legal challenge to the compact would violate their sovereignty and disrupt the economic benefits they receive from gaming revenues. As a result, the court ruled that the tribe could not be compelled to participate in the case, and the suit was ultimately dismissed.

    The Road Ahead for Maverick Gaming

    With the Third Circuit Court of Appeals now rejecting Maverick’s latest appeal, it appears the operator’s options are limited. However, Maverick Gaming CEO Eric Persson has made it clear that he is not ready to give up on this legal fight. In previous media statements, Persson has expressed a willingness to take the case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court if necessary. While this outcome seems unlikely in the short term, Maverick’s persistence could lead to further legal developments down the line.

    For now, the dismissal of the case marks a decisive victory for Washington’s tribal sports betting monopoly. The ruling reaffirms the state’s commitment to its 2020 compact and secures the exclusive rights of tribes to offer sports betting. As the market continues to grow, the issue of tribal sovereignty in gaming is likely to remain a point of contention between non-tribal operators and tribal nations.

    As Maverick Gaming grapples with its defeat, the broader implications for the sports betting industry in Washington remain uncertain. Non-tribal operators like Maverick will likely continue pushing for a more inclusive market, but for the time being, the tribal monopoly remains intact.

  • Bet365 Reports Rising Trends in US Sports Betting for 2025, Details Expansion Plans

    Bet365 Reports Rising Trends in US Sports Betting for 2025, Details Expansion Plans

  • Paris Gaming Clubs Face Closure Amid Legislative Stalemate

    Paris Gaming Clubs Face Closure Amid Legislative Stalemate

    Legislative gridlock threatens the future of Paris’s gaming clubs, potentially leaving 1,500 jobs in jeopardy and major poker events hanging in the balance.

    Paris’s renowned “Clubs de Jeux” are on the brink of closure, with a December 31 deadline fast approaching and no solution in sight. These clubs, which operate under an experimental framework designed to replace the city’s banned casinos, now face an uncertain future due to a prolonged legislative delay.

    The cause of this looming shutdown? The French National Assembly dissolved earlier this year, leading to the collapse of key government processes. Efforts to extend the clubs’ legal status have stalled, leaving the gaming establishments without a legal framework to operate beyond the end of the year. This has thrown the future of 1,500 jobs into doubt, while simultaneously threatening the city’s international gaming events, such as the European Championship of Poker and the PokerStars European Poker Tour Paris.

    A High-Stakes Problem: The Impact of the Shutdown

    The Paris gaming clubs have become a significant contributor to the city’s economy. In 2023 alone, they generated €119 million ($124.97 million) in gross gaming revenue, a sizable portion of which—approximately €40 million—was redirected to the state. These figures paint a clear picture: the clubs are not just a source of entertainment, but a substantial economic engine for the capital.

    “Without the clubs, it’s a social and economic catastrophe,” said Christine Bonneau, managing director of Club Barrière. “It’s mentally draining for the teams. We are completely in the dark about what will happen next.”

    This sense of uncertainty is amplified by the sheer scale of the shutdown. Not only would 1,500 employees lose their jobs, but major international poker tournaments—events that draw global crowds—are at risk of being canceled. Paris, a city already renowned for its hospitality and gaming culture, may lose its position as a top destination for high-profile poker competitions.

    The Root Cause: Political Deadlock

    The shutdown’s root cause lies in the unresolved legislative stalemate within the French government. In June, the French National Assembly dissolved, and with it, the Finance Bill that was supposed to extend the clubs’ operational phase. Without this extension, the gaming clubs have no legal standing to continue beyond the end of the year.

    In the absence of a functioning government, talks about the future of the gaming clubs remain in limbo. Despite efforts to push a special law through Parliament to address the 2025 budget, the bill does not contain provisions to save the gaming clubs, leaving operators and employees on edge.

    “If we cannot operate in 2025, it could take four to six months before the clubs are allowed to reopen,” one industry insider explained. This prolonged downtime would be devastating for the entire sector, further amplifying the financial and social implications of the shutdown.

    Failed Proposals and Growing Concern

    Efforts to secure a new legislative framework for the gaming clubs have met with frustration. The issue became further complicated when proposals to legalize online casinos—also part of the stalled Finance Bill—were abandoned. This setback has left stakeholders questioning the likelihood of any meaningful progress before the year’s end.

    Industry professionals argue that the clubs’ closure would not only put thousands out of work but could also push gambling underground. Such an outcome could result in significant tax revenue losses for the government, with the potential rise of unregulated gambling operations posing a further risk to public safety and the integrity of the sector.

    The situation has also sparked concern among professional unions and club operators. “We are at a crossroads. We need to know if we are forced to close and whether employees can access technical unemployment or partial activity,” said Sébastien Leclercq, Country Manager for Circus Casino in France, speaking on the Dans le Carré talk show. “It’s complicated because we no longer have a law to rely on, and there’s no money in the coffers.”

    The Closer Look: What Happens Next?

    Despite the dire circumstances, many remain hopeful that the French government will act swiftly to resolve the issue. However, the ongoing political paralysis makes a quick resolution unlikely. As of now, both industry leaders and employees are left in a state of limbo, unsure of whether they will return to work in January or face a prolonged shutdown.

    There is still a glimmer of hope that a new law could emerge to save the clubs, but with each passing day, that hope seems to diminish. The gaming industry is calling for decisive action from lawmakers, but whether or not that will materialize in time to prevent the shutdown is uncertain.

    The outcome of this battle will have long-lasting implications not only for the clubs but also for the wider French gaming sector. If the clubs are forced to shut down, the government may face the task of rebuilding a legal framework from the ground up—a process that could take years. In the meantime, Paris’s gaming culture, and the thousands of people who rely on it, are left waiting for the political climate to shift.

  • DRGT Prepares to Unveil Exciting New Solutions at ICE Barcelona 2025

    DRGT Prepares to Unveil Exciting New Solutions at ICE Barcelona 2025

    With the countdown to ICE Barcelona 2025 ticking down, DRGT executives are excited about the new opportunities on the horizon. The gaming industry’s largest exhibition is just around the corner, and DRGT is gearing up to showcase its latest products and solutions to a global audience. This year’s event is set to be particularly significant, marking a new venue, a new city, and a new era of possibilities for both DRGT and the broader gaming world.

    DRGT’s Growing Global Presence

    For Marco Herrera, DRGT’s CEO, 2024 has been a year full of milestones. Despite the challenges the year has brought, Herrera is particularly optimistic about the company’s future. He credits DRGT’s success in both Europe and Mexico for laying a strong foundation as the company prepares for its biggest showcase yet. “These are exciting times. I am thankful I was able to join the team when I did,” Herrera says, reflecting on his recent addition to the company in September 2024. His leadership comes at a time when DRGT is positioning itself for impressive growth in the international market.

    Barcelona’s new venue for ICE 2025 is set to be a fresh experience for many of the exhibitors and attendees, but for Herrera, it’s a return to a familiar city. Having spent five years working in Barcelona in the past, Herrera feels particularly connected to the city, even as it’s poised to host one of the most exciting gaming showcases to date. “Barcelona is not new to me. It’s a warmer city, especially in the winter, but it’s a fantastic place for a new chapter in ICE’s history,” he adds.

    New Deals and Licensing Agreements in Europe

    As DRGT prepares to take its presence at ICE Barcelona to the next level, the company has also made strategic moves in Europe. Andreas Duller, Managing Director for DRGT Austria, shared recent successes, including securing a supplier license in Bulgaria. This license is a game changer for DRGT’s growing portfolio in Eastern Europe. “We’re set to roll out our management system solution to Efbet’s 58 gambling halls, sports bars, and casinos, which encompass around 2,500 machines,” Duller says. Additionally, DRGT is working on a wide-area progressive jackpot for Efbet, which will further solidify its standing in the European market.

    Expanding beyond Bulgaria, Laurence Herbots, Managing Director of DRGT Online, highlights the company’s recent license acquisition in France. With DRGT’s roots firmly planted in Europe, the company has already established significant market share across the continent. “We are the market leader in Belgium and Switzerland, and we have a strong presence in several other countries such as Albania, Austria, and Germany,” Herbots notes. This expansion into France, along with the addition of new partners and licenses, demonstrates DRGT’s strong commitment to solidifying its position in Europe.

    Herbots also reveals that DRGT’s sister company, Infiniti, has received the license to operate Grasse Casino in Alpes-Maritimes, set to open in January 2025. This development has positioned DRGT perfectly to pursue further market share in France. With a combination of strategic partnerships, new licenses, and an ever-expanding footprint, DRGT is clearly ready to make waves at ICE Barcelona 2025.

    A Bright Future for DRGT in Africa and Mexico

    As DRGT focuses on its European expansion, there is also plenty of excitement brewing in other regions. Duncan Pollock, the Managing Director for DRGT Africa, has been eyeing new opportunities in Johannesburg. While specific details remain under wraps, Pollock expresses confidence that the upcoming year will bring several exciting prospects for the company’s operations in Africa. “We’re looking forward to seeing some great opportunities materialize in the next 12 months,” he says, hinting at the ambitious growth plans DRGT has for the African market.

    Meanwhile, in Mexico, DRGT has been making strides with its expanding presence in the region. As part of its global strategy, the company is exploring new avenues to offer cutting-edge solutions and technology, which have already begun to make an impact in the country. Herrera emphasizes the importance of international expansion, noting how DRGT’s broadening presence will ensure the company remains a leader in the gaming industry, not just in Europe but globally.

    What to Expect at ICE Barcelona 2025

    As ICE Barcelona 2025 draws nearer, the anticipation surrounding DRGT’s exhibition is palpable. The company’s latest innovations, including new software solutions and cutting-edge gaming products, are expected to be a highlight of the tradeshow. DRGT’s comprehensive portfolio is designed to cater to the growing demand for advanced management systems, seamless gaming experiences, and progressive jackpot solutions. Visitors to DRGT’s booth can expect to see firsthand how the company’s forward-thinking approach is transforming the gaming landscape.

    While the excitement for ICE Barcelona continues to build, DRGT executives are optimistic about the future. With licenses secured in key regions like Bulgaria and France, strategic partnerships on the rise, and an ever-growing international footprint, the company is positioned for another successful year. For DRGT, ICE Barcelona will not just be a showcase of its latest products, but also a celebration of the company’s global reach and the future of gaming.

  • China Cracks Down on Black-Market Banks, Arrests 846 Individuals in Massive Operation

    China Cracks Down on Black-Market Banks, Arrests 846 Individuals in Massive Operation

  • Regulating the Game 2025 Announces Sportsbet CEO Barni Evans as Featured Speaker

    Regulating the Game 2025 Announces Sportsbet CEO Barni Evans as Featured Speaker

    Barni Evans, CEO of Australia’s largest online wagering operator, Sportsbet, has been confirmed as a featured speaker at the highly anticipated 2025 edition of the Regulating the Game conference. Set to take place from March 10–13, 2025, at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, the event promises to bring together the brightest minds in the gambling industry to discuss regulation and its future in Australia.

    A Powerful Voice in Wagering Regulation

    Barni Evans’ experience is unmatched in the Australian online wagering sector. Leading Sportsbet, Evans oversees 2.2 million customers and 1,300 staff across multiple locations, including Melbourne, Sydney, and Darwin. His career spans over two decades with the global Flutter Group, which owns Sportsbet. Evans’ journey within the group saw him take on crucial roles in marketing and commercial operations before becoming the CEO in 2018.

    As the leader of such a prominent company, Evans brings a unique perspective on the evolution of wagering regulation in Australia. In a recent statement, Evans noted, “Wagering regulation in Australia has evolved significantly and continues to be an area of intense focus for those within our industry and society in general.” He emphasized the current critical juncture the industry faces and highlighted the importance of forums like Regulating the Game in shaping sustainable regulations.

    Evans will speak on the role of industry leaders in driving innovation and creating regulations that balance business growth with public responsibility. “It is important that events like Regulating the Game and resulting dialogue can help shape appropriate regulation for a sustainable future,” he added.

    Conference to Tackle Key Challenges in the Gambling Sector

    Paul Newson, Principal at Vanguard Overwatch, spoke highly of Evans’ involvement in the event. “Barni’s forward-looking perspective on the sector, combined with his deep understanding of both its challenges and opportunities, is invaluable to the conference,” Newson said. He further stressed the importance of Evans’ expertise in guiding the gambling industry through crucial regulatory challenges.

    “Barni’s role as CEO of the largest online wagering operator in Australia, combined with his position within the global Flutter Group, means he plays a key part in shaping how the sector evolves,” Newson continued. “His experience is pivotal in promoting safer gambling practices, driving innovation, and ensuring the implementation of efficient regulations.”

    During his session, Evans will explore some of the most critical issues facing the industry today. These include the need for effective regulation, fostering trust within the community, and the future of digital wagering. Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage directly with Evans and delve into these topics, gaining insights from one of the most influential figures in Australian sports betting.

    Regulating the Game: A Critical Gathering for Industry Professionals

    Now entering its fifth year, Regulating the Game is a key event for anyone involved in gambling regulation and policy. The conference brings together experts, regulators, and industry professionals to discuss challenges facing the industry and how regulation can evolve to meet these challenges.

    The focus of the 2025 conference will be to foster meaningful dialogue on the direction of the industry, the public policy debates surrounding gambling, and the role of regulation in maintaining a fair, responsible gambling environment. By discussing these topics in-depth, the event hopes to drive the future of a sustainable gambling industry.

    For industry professionals, the conference offers a chance to learn from leading experts, share ideas, and work together to tackle the most pressing issues in gambling regulation today. Whether you’re a regulator, operator, or involved in policy-making, Regulating the Game is the must-attend event for anyone looking to make a difference in the sector.

  • Uzbekistan to Enforce New Licensing Rules for Online Gambling and Lotteries from 2025

    Uzbekistan to Enforce New Licensing Rules for Online Gambling and Lotteries from 2025

  • Kansas Sports Betting Hits Record $291 Million in November, Boosted by NFL Wagers

    Kansas Sports Betting Hits Record $291 Million in November, Boosted by NFL Wagers

    Kansas set a new sports betting milestone in November, with bettors wagering a record-breaking $291 million. The figure marks the state’s highest monthly handle since legalised betting launched, driven largely by NFL enthusiasm and Kansas City Chiefs fans eager to back their team’s Super Bowl aspirations.

    NFL Fuels Record-Breaking Numbers

    The $291 million handle represents a 5.5% increase over October’s $275.9 million and an 11.5% jump from November 2023’s $260.9 million, according to state reports. The spike aligns perfectly with the heart of the NFL season, as sports betting interest tends to surge during football’s prime months.

    The Kansas City Chiefs played a significant role in driving wagers. With 12 wins out of 13 games, the team remains a top contender for Super Bowl LIX. Even their mid-November loss to the Buffalo Bills likely padded sportsbook revenues, as bettors banking on the Chiefs came up short.

    Online Betting Dominates the Market

    The overwhelming majority of Kansas’ betting handle came from online platforms.

    • Online sportsbooks accounted for $279 million, or 96% of the monthly total.
    • This online activity generated $24.6 million in revenue for operators, highlighting the dominance of mobile betting.

    Leading the online pack was DraftKings, which handled a staggering $128 million in bets and took home $11.7 million in revenue.
    FanDuel followed with $86.5 million in handle and $8.9 million in revenue.

    Other notable performers included:

    • BetMGM: $26.2 million handle | $1.7 million revenue
    • ESPN BET: $12.3 million handle | $786,023 revenue

    Kansas bettors clearly favour the convenience of mobile wagering, a trend consistent across the United States.

    Retail Sportsbooks See Steady Gains

    While online sportsbooks dominated, Kansas’ four retail sportsbooks posted solid numbers as well. Combined, they reported:

    • $12 million in handle
    • $873,172 in revenue

    The standout performer in the retail sector was ESPN BET at Hollywood Casino, leading with:

    • $9.1 million in handle
    • $568,087 in revenue

    Though smaller in scale compared to online giants, retail sportsbooks maintain their place as gathering hubs for more traditional bettors.

    Betting Trends and NFL’s Continued Impact

    November marks the third month of the 2024-25 NFL season, traditionally one of the most lucrative windows for sportsbooks. Since legalising sports betting, Kansas has seen a consistent spike in activity each September as football returns, a trend that accelerates deeper into the season.

    The American Gaming Association projects that U.S. bettors will wager around $35 billion on NFL games this season alone. Kansas, bolstered by its Chiefs fanbase and growing sports betting culture, appears poised to capture its share of this booming market.

    Looking Ahead: Postseason Potential

    The November record could be a preview of even bigger numbers to come. As the NFL postseason approaches, sportsbooks typically see betting intensify, particularly when local favourites like the Chiefs are in the mix. Kansas operators will undoubtedly capitalise on the playoff excitement, with Super Bowl wagers providing an additional windfall.

    For now, the November surge cements Kansas’ status as a growing player in the U.S. sports betting landscape. With a robust NFL season underway and continued interest in mobile wagering, the state’s sportsbooks have their eyes firmly set on maintaining this momentum into the new year.

    • November Handle: $291 million (Record high)
    • Online Betting: 96% of total handle
    • Top Performers: DraftKings ($128M), FanDuel ($86.5M)
    • Retail Leader: ESPN BET at Hollywood Casino ($9.1M handle)

    As Kansas City Chiefs fans keep dreaming of Super Bowl glory, one thing’s for sure: sports betting in Kansas is thriving.