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  • Macau: Hotel occupancy rate expected to reach 90%, casino revenue to rise during Lunar New Year | Yogonet International

    Macau: Hotel occupancy rate expected to reach 90%, casino revenue to rise during Lunar New Year | Yogonet International

    While Macau posted its worst year for gambling in 2022, there are now high expectations that things might just turn around for the gaming hub during this coming year – and that rebound might start this month. Cheung Kin Chung, President of the Macau Hoteliers & Innkeepers Association, said he expects most of the city’s hotels to be fully occupied during Lunar New Year, to be celebrated on January 22.

    Cheung, an appointed lawmaker, said in a conversation with public broadcaster Radio Macau he expects that, during the holiday period, local hotels will be at 90% capacity, which is the same level as the pre-Covid Lunar New Year holidays.

    Cheung Kin Chung, President of the Macau Hoteliers & Innkeepers Association.

    As reported by the Macau Daily Times, Cheung expects the peak of booking activities would occur five to seven days before Lunar New Year. The executive said that the peak of hotel occupancy and casino revenue will occur between January 23 and 26. Most incoming tourists will be individual or family travelers, and there might be some small groups as well, although group tours from mainland China have not yet resumed.

    For his part, Wilfred Wong, President and Executive Director of Sands China, told Hong Kong media he expected the hotel occupancy rate will reach 90% during the holiday period, echoing Cheung’s forecast.

    This Lunar New Year holiday period is the first major holiday season in mainland China after the cessation of Covid-19 travel restrictions. Wong said casino revenue will also rise during this coming holiday season because, traditionally, Chinese people are eager to try their luck during Lunar New Year. 

    Wilfred Wong, President, and Executive Director of Sands China

    As reported last week, tourists are flocking to Macau after the gambling hub moved to lift its Covid-19 restrictions earlier this month. Visitation to the Chinese city and its gaming revenue for the first 10 days of January are the best they have been in two years, according to reports by government officials, while JP Morgan Securities points out GGR reached 40% of the Q4 level in just 15 days.

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  • PointsBet approved for Responsible Gambling Council accreditation in Canada and USA | Yogonet International

    PointsBet approved for Responsible Gambling Council accreditation in Canada and USA | Yogonet International

    PointsBet USA and PointsBet Canada announced they have been approved for accreditation under the RG Check program, provided by the Responsible Gambling Council. Accreditation is granted for three years after a review by responsible gaming specialists and an independent Accreditation Panel.

    Based in Toronto, the Council is an international authority that operates independently from the gaming industry, offering insights and services for land-based and online gaming providers.

    RG Check, developed by RGC’s Centre of the Advancement of Best Practices, is the “most comprehensive and rigorous responsible gambling accreditation program in the world,” according to PointsBet.

    It is designed to meet or exceed “all existing responsible gambling regulatory requirements” while also providing “a concrete roadmap for implementing broadly stated industry-responsible gambling codes of practice.”

    Teresa Fiore, Responsible Gambling & CSR Manager at PointsBet USA, commented: “At PointsBet, we strive to deliver a product that enhances the sports viewing experience which seamlessly integrates responsible gambling best practice.”

    “Since our entry into the North American market, we’ve focused our efforts on understanding the complexities of responsible gambling safeguards and implementing a responsible gambling strategy that educates, protects, and supports players,” she added.

    Chantal Cipriano, Vice President of Legal, Compliance & Government Relations at PointsBet Canada, said: “It is a tremendous honor to receive this recognition and validation of our commitment to player protection from the Responsible Gambling Council.”

    “Our promise is to continue prioritizing best responsible gambling practices while always striving to provide an unrivalled experience to sports bettors and gaming enthusiasts,” Cipriano added.

    As part of the accreditation process, program staff thoroughly reviewed PointsBet.com and PointsBet.ca based on the nine RG Check standards and undertook a comprehensive review of documentation and training, employee interviews, employee surveys, and testing of the websites.

    Shelley White, Responsible Gambling Council CEO, added: “Congratulations to PointsBet on successfully completing and achieving Responsible Gambling Council’s RG Check iGaming Accreditation for its sites, PointsBet.ca and PointsBet.com. This achievement is a strong demonstration of PointsBet’s commitment to prioritizing player protection, education and harm minimization throughout its operations.”

    “RG Check is an invaluable tool for managing risk and monitoring the overall effectiveness of RG programming, and provides a roadmap for continuous improvement,” White added. “RGC is proud to provide PointsBet with ongoing support in its responsible gambling journey.”

    The accreditation comes as PointsBet expands its presence in the North American market. This week, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission voted unanimously to approve temporary licensure for the operator, among other companies.

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  • Endorphina inks 10 new partnership deals within two months | Yogonet International

    Endorphina inks 10 new partnership deals within two months | Yogonet International

    B2B online slots provider Endorphina has announced the closure of 10 new partnerships within the past two months. The company sealed 7 agreements in December alone and kicked off 2023 with three new deals in January.

    “Endorphina saw the last remaining days of the year as an opportunity for partnerships, doing business, and moving steps closer to achieving their goals,” says the supplier. In December, the business partnered with FilsGames, StarCasino, SuperBet, Timeless Tech, Staryes, Bitville Gaming, and InBet.

    Meanwhile, in the first month of 2023, Endorphina has already partnered with FavBet, AdmiralBet, and Betn1. Following the news, Endorphina said it remains committed to further pushing forward “with the same energy this year.”

    All in all, 2022 was a highly positive year for the gaming provider, which gained licenses and certifications in more than 20 countries within the past 12 months. And looking toward 2023, the business plans to keep on bringing new content and entering new jurisdictions.

    Attendees of ICE London 2023, to be held February 7 – 9 at ExCel London, will have the chance to check out the latest Endorphina’s offerings at stand N7-230. There, the supplier will have team professionals at hand to meet and greet the public, providing insights on the business, game creation and more.

    “As one of the few events that really gets us excited, we’re eagerly looking to bring extraordinary endorphins to you all at the upcoming ICE London,” said the company in a statement. “Whether you’ve just started following us or have been with us since the beginning, you can bet that we have something special planned for you at our stand N7-230.”

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  • Slotegrator analysis: Market ratings by online gambling development in 2023 | Yogonet International

    Slotegrator analysis: Market ratings by online gambling development in 2023 | Yogonet International

    The online gambling market is continuing to grow: analysts predict that the global iGaming market will have an estimated value of $113.12 billion by 2025. The largest markets are the UK, the USA, Australia, Japan, and China, but experts see impressive potential and great prospects for expansion in emerging markets. Ayvar Gabidullin, Business Development Manager at Slotegrator, ranked the markets worth betting on in 2023 according to experts.

    This review presents the top five emerging markets:

    Latin America

    Latin American countries such as Brazil, Peru, Mexico, Argentina, Columbia, and Chile have grabbed plenty of headlines throughout the iGaming sector in the past few years. Brazil in particular often referred to as the “sleeping giant” of Latin America, is one of the largest markets in the region. Brazil’s online gambling GGR is expected to grow significantly and will reach about $1.6 billion by 2026.

    Among the countries actively working towards regulatory reform are Bolivia, Mexico, and Brazil. In the latter two, legislation is pending. Meanwhile, Colombia is updating legal provisions to better adapt to the digital age.

    Latin Americans prefer online gambling because not everyone has access to land-based casinos. The most popular games are sports betting, slots, bingo, and poker.

    Asia

    Asia is a very diverse and promising region, densely populated, and with a rapidly growing economy. As for gambling control in Asian countries, this market is considered one of the most tightly regulated. However, there is a drive to liberalize the market: Thailand is discussing the details of market regulation, Vietnam is testing a pilot program to allow locals to play in casinos that previously only admitted tourists and some states in India are considering regulating online gambling. In Japan, the gambling market is very limited, but players spend an impressive amount of money on foreign sportsbooks — roughly $40 billion each year. For their part, Chinese gambling enthusiasts spend ¥1 trillion ($145.5 billion) annually on online gambling, much of it in cryptocurrency.

    Chinese players are known for their frequent visits to offshore casinos, chiefly live dealer games based in the Philippines. Within China itself, the special administrative regions of Macau and Hong Kong are famous for their gambling and betting sectors, but gambling is prohibited throughout the rest of the country (aside from the national lottery).

    The Indian market is full of potential, despite its complicated regulatory landscape (laws vary from state to state, though the country recently established a national regulator). In 2022, total revenue in the casino gaming segment was projected to reach $1 billion within a few years. With a population of 1.3 billion, increasing internet connectivity, and spreading mobile usage, India has plenty of potential for operators who successfully localize their offerings (including rummy, cricket betting, and other local favorites).

    As for the CIS, Georgia and Armenia are both promising regions. These countries are very attractive to tourists with their gambling sector, which is growing rapidly every year. In Georgia, operators can offer online casino games and sportsbooks only if they have a license for a land-based project. Neighboring Armenia has gambling participation rates roughly six times those of the UK, one of the strongest markets in the world.

    Africa

    Africa’s most attractive iGaming markets are Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and South Africa (the continent’s largest market, with a GGR, projected to reach $2.3 billion by 2023).

    Africans like a range of online casino games, and this trend is growing rapidly, but their main passion remains betting on sports. If we study the economic potential of countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, Uganda, Kenya, and Ghana, namely their passion for sports betting, we can see the prospects of this continent.

    Slotegrator’s experts have a few reasons to believe that the gambling industry in Africa will continue to grow rapidly:

    • Increasing incomes are leading to a growing middle class.

    • The spread of internet access and the low price of computers and smartphones allow more people to go online.

    • There is a general improvement in gambling taxation and legislation.

    Europe

    Europe is a fertile market for the iGaming industry, offering investment opportunities of all kinds. Some of the key advantages of the market are growing economies, established leaders, and promising new markets

    The European Gaming and Betting Associate (EGBA) estimated that in 2022, total GGR in Europe grew by 23% to €108.5 billion. For their part, online gambling revenues grew by 8% compared to 2021, to €38.2 billion.

    Scandinavian countries have very strong economies, but each country has different regulations. Denmark and Sweden are regulated, growing, and prosperous countries, and both online casinos and sports betting are popular here.

    The UK and Ireland have a preference for sports betting, with horse racing remaining a perennial favorite. Online betting is regulated, as are online casinos, but sportsbooks are more popular among players. They are also popular in France, as is poker. Belgian players enjoy a variety of casino games, especially dice games. In Germany, gambling used to be allowed only in land-based casinos but recently approved regulation allows online casinos and betting.

    The Baltic countries have seen economic growth and good regulatory development — Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia offer licenses for both online casinos and sportsbooks. Players there prefer the online versions of traditional games like poker, blackjack, and baccarat. Bingo will always be welcome — in short, everything players are used to seeing in land-based casinos will be well-received on online platforms as well. As for sports, basketball, hockey, and ice cricket are very much in demand.

    Switzerland and Poland have huge potential and offer outstanding opportunities.  Switzerland is one of the world’s most developed countries in terms of nominal GDP per capita, though regulation for online gambling has been introduced relatively recently. Poland is the sixth largest economy in the European Union, and with a population comparable to its western neighbors, it is likely that its iGaming market will continue to strengthen in the coming years.

    “Each market has its own demand, and it is a combination of several factors: regulation, economy, culture, and habits,” says Ayvar Gabidullin, Business Development Manager at Slotegrator. “Our team studied the specifics of each market, and we are focused on these regions and confidently recommend them to our clients and partners. The market prospects are impressive — according to forecasts, the online gambling and betting market will reach about $150 billion by 2030. The game is definitely worth the candle.”

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  • Sportingtech: “In 2022, we had exponential growth, especially in LatAm and Africa” | Yogonet International

    Sportingtech: “In 2022, we had exponential growth, especially in LatAm and Africa” | Yogonet International

    As we leave behind a year marked by the return to in-person industry events, the rise of online gaming, and the rebound in land-based casinos, iGaming platform provider Sportingtech prepares for the year ahead. 

    Expansion across new markets has been the key to the provider’s successful year in 2022 and the company expects to continue in that line for the year that just started. Colin McDonagh, Chief Sales Officer at Sportingtech, shares his assessment of the work done throughout the year as well as his thoughts on the challenges to come.

    What assessment do you make of 2022?

    It’s been a hugely positive year for Sportingtech, which has seen a great deal of internal change, especially over the past few months, with a number of new additions creating a solid bedrock that has fuelled aggressive growth. Bobby Longhurst, our Managing Director, took the reins earlier in the year with the ambition to extend the company’s reach in emerging and regulated markets worldwide, as well as lotteries, with our comprehensive sports betting and casino product offering, and has done so to great effect.

    Which was the highlight of 2022 for Sportingtech?

    One of the mainstays of Sportingtech’s success this year has been its exponential growth, especially in LatAm and Africa. Notably, we have seen a number of high-profile operator deals in numerous markets across Africa, best evidenced in our partnerships with operators 888AFRICA and SunBet.

    It has been hugely rewarding to see that our vibrant, knowledgeable leadership team drives the business forward, accurately displaying the technological expertise that Sportingtech has to offer, and this has proved invaluable, especially this year when presented with the sporting behemoth that is the World Cup.


    Sportingtech at ICE 2019

    What are the most challenging aspects of compliance that the igaming sector faces today?

    The word ‘uncertainty’ sums up the industry’s compliance issues aptly. This is evident if we look at UK-facing operators that are sometimes reliant on an uncertain approach to updating regulation, largely because of an outcomes-based regulation model and a hostile press that heavily scrutinizes the industry’s every move.

    Further afield, it’s been suggested that Curaçao will introduce wide-ranging changes to its licensing regime at the end of 2022. Here, we see the same problem – operators being told about changes in regulation, but with little detail to help update processes and controls. Appropriate changes are welcome, but hopefully, Curaçao doesn’t follow a model that irreparably damages its economy and gaming sector.

    How have sportsbook features become increasingly important to attract and retain bettors? And what can Sportingtech offer?

    This year’s World Cup is the perfect example of how sportsbooks have had to step up and provide next-level solutions, and we have delivered on that front. Features like Bet Assist have tackled any challenges head-on, generating automated betting tips based on historical data, live-score, and AI analysis, covering both pre-match and in-play markets with complete bet slip integration, user engagement has increased, as well as retention and turnover rates.

    In addition, bet builders have given newcomers to sports betting an efficient and engaging way to get involved, while FastBet, the only feature of its kind on the market, has enabled users to wager across all sports at the touch of a button without creating a betslip.

    What’s next for your award-winning Quantum platform?

    Next year will herald an even greater focus on personalization for the industry, which Quantum will be on hand to address. Customers all over the world are coming to expect a more personalized betting experience, and we foresee a greater necessity for personalization in 2023. We’re long past the point where a cut-and-paste offering is enough.

    Now, end-users actively expect a product that feels specifically catered to them. An operation has to stand out from the crowd in its own right and feel fresh when compared to the competition. This is yet another way that our Quantum platform enables businesses to thrive, by being customisable to the point of meeting the individual needs of each operator we work with.

    The Latin American market is growing rapidly, what’s your business plan for Latin America?

    From our extensive presence in Latin America, we have seen a surge of sportsbooks and casinos embrace the online market following changes in regulation.

    Quantum’s customizable nature makes it the ideal platform for these markets allowing operators to tailor the product to their own specific needs – by offering such a versatile platform, operators looking to establish themselves in emerging markets and create a player-centric betting experience can do so. We’ll also continue to roll out the lite versions of our offering for jurisdictions that don’t yet have robust bandwidth.

    You have also announced partnerships in Africa, what can you tell us about the African market?

    Our recent partnerships are indicative of the iGaming industry’s thoroughly bright future on the continent of Africa – not only sports are a pillar of many countries there, with sports betting growing stronger every year, but online casino entertainment is gradually becoming more familiar to a variety of markets across the region.

    Regulation, payment options, and myriad other player preferences vary massively across Africa and, as a result, an increasing number of tier-one operators are realizing that flexible platform solutions like Quantum are necessary to cater to audiences across such regions. Through our modular offering that is backed by local people providing excellent customer support on the ground, we’ve successfully proved we can build a tailored product for each of these markets.

    In regard to your roadmap for future development, how is Sportingtech planning to capitalize on recent operator deals going forward?

    We’re deeply excited about the possibilities the new iFrame product has to offer. Our iFrame integration allows us to add a sportsbook to a partner’s website without any real change to their existing UI. This is perfect for operators who want to explore whether a sportsbook offering is right for their business, without investing a significant sum and overhauling their current front end in order to find out.

    We’ve already taken this live with several partners to great effect, so we think this new string to our bow will prove incredibly popular in 2023. As well as that, we have big plans for our continued growth in LatAm and African jurisdictions with the help of our ever-evolving Quantum platform.

    What surprises are you preparing for 2023?

    We’re very much looking forward to meeting delegates at ICE 2023, where we will be discussing all of our solutions for operators designed to give them the confidence to keep their players engaged and satisfied in the new year. With purse strings tightening due to international cost-of-living woes, it is more pertinent than ever for operators to offer a best-in-class entertainment experience, as gaming becomes more of a luxury for many customers.

    We’re also looking forward to doubling down on our continued expansion efforts – by the end of 2023, we expect to have rolled out in several other markets as more African countries begin to see the advantages of common-sense regulation. We can also expect to see our Quantum platform grow and add more strings to its bow as we encounter challenges and manipulate the platform to adjust and overcome them.

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  • Aruze opens its first European office to support EMEA expansion plans | Yogonet International

    Aruze opens its first European office to support EMEA expansion plans | Yogonet International

    Gambling solutions developer Aruze Gaming Europe announced Wednesday its first office in Europe, providing dedicated sales and service support to Aruze’s European, Middle Eastern and North African market bases. 

    David Meacher, Director of Business Operations at Aruze Gaming Europe, commented: “Aruze’s presence is expanding rapidly in European, Middle Eastern, and North African markets and the establishment of our independent office demonstrates our continued commitment to the players and operators of these regions.”

    “Our customers are invaluable to us, and bringing ourselves that much closer to them will strengthen our relationship and understanding of these specific markets, as well as provide more in-depth and personalized service and sales support,” he added.

    The office operates out of the Netherlands and will serve as Aruze’s European headquarters moving forward. The move comes as Aruze sees “noticeable growth” in sales and installations in Europe, as well as the Middle East and Northern Africa.

    “As new markets continue to arise in these regions, Aruze Gaming Europe will look to capitalize through a dedicated and focused regional approach,” the company said in a press statement.

    The expansion of Aruze’s offices to Europe furthers the company’s mission to be “a global provider of casino solutions.” Aruze provides “a gaming solution for everyone,” from classics such as Lucky Roulette and ETGs like BlackJack and more, all the way to iGaming.

    Aruze also provides casino-arcade hybrid games based on the company’s Activ-Play technology. These games are based on the same RNM technology of a slot, but have the engaging play-style of an arcade game.

    With the expansion, Aruze will also continue to bring its flagship luxury cabinets to Europe. These include Muso Curve 43 and 55, and Muso Triple 27 and 32, which provide “a comfortable and captivating gaming experience.”

    Four Aruze team members will kick off the European office, with the company planning to expand throughout 2023. The direct regional support office announced operations ahead of ICE 2023, where Aruze’s products will be on display at booth S9-330.

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  • BetConstruct announces public sale of its Fasttoken cryptocurrency | Yogonet International

    BetConstruct announces public sale of its Fasttoken cryptocurrency | Yogonet International

    Gaming technology and services provider BetConstruct has announced the official public sale of its Fasttoken, the native cryptocurrency of the Fastex ecosystem. From January 18-20, everyone will get the chance to purchase FTNs at a fixed price of EUR 0.35, “a great opportunity to purchase FTNs early on and get it at an estimated price.”

    Before being available to the public, FTN has already had a number of updates. First and foremost, Fasttoken is going to be on the list of official cryptocurrencies on BetConstruct’s network. More than 70 iGaming developers have already included FTN as one of the accepted cryptocurrencies on their platforms, notes the company. The token has also recently passed an ERC-20 and smart-contract distribution audit from CertiK, a blockchain security pioneer; and Hexens, a cybersecurity solutions company.

    “Fasttoken plans to partner with even more providers in the future, so each player can use their FTNs on their preferred platform,” the company said. “Make sure to use the greatest opportunity to be one of the firsts to jump on the train and get your FTNs at a very beneficial rate.”

    “FTN is the official cryptocurrency of Fastex ecosystem and the native token of the Fastex Chain developed and curated by leading tech giant SoftConstruct,” Fasttoken’s website describes. “With SoftConstruct’s vast network, over 1 million active users, and 700 partners all over the globe, FTN will have numerous real-world use cases from day 1 implying high organic growth.”

    The past week, BetConstruct also confirmed that gaming solutions provider Zeus Play is planning to add FTN to its list of supported cryptocurrencies. The company will adopt the coin during Q1, 2023. It joins other companies such as BETER Live, BGaming, and Fugaso in adopting Fasttoken.

    This week, the company launched its brand new Content Management System Pro, which offers improved digital content management options and “simple, flexible and scalable solutions for the iGaming world.”

    Managed via a single tool, the operations demand fewer resources, making the process cost-effective and more efficient, says the company. It provides an entirely adjustable Configs module with functional settings such as global or skin configs, all based on the partners’ preferences and individual requirements. 

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  • Boyd’s Fremont Casino debuts new FanDuel Sportsbook, additional gaming space amid multi-million dollar renovation | Yogonet International

    Boyd’s Fremont Casino debuts new FanDuel Sportsbook, additional gaming space amid multi-million dollar renovation | Yogonet International

    Las Vegas-based Boyd Gaming celebrated Thursday the grand opening of the rebranded FanDuel Sportsbook at its Fremont Casino, plus the debut of 10,000 square feet of additional gaming space. It is one of the first unveilings of a $50 million property-wide renovation and expansion project. 

    A new six-stall food hall, built on a former parking lot on Third Street, also made its debut last week, along with the new gaming options. An entrance and a patio were added along Third Street, which the city recently rebuilt as a pedestrian mall that creates access to the Fremont Street Experience from Ogden Avenue. 

    The 2,900-square-foot FanDuel Sportsbook is near the food hall and Third Street entrance. The area has 12 bartop gaming machines, 12 65-inch TVs, four transaction windows and seven self-service kiosks. Meanwhile, the additional casino space features about 120 more games, taking over the former buffet section of the property.

    Boyd, which has a 5% stake in FanDuel, still operates the Fremont book. But the FanDuel brand may pull in customers familiar with it in their home state. The company said it has 42% of the market share by gross gaming revenue in 2022’s third quarter.

    Boyd also recently renovated the property’s hotel rooms, and it plans to renovate the entire casino floor a section at a time. Officials expect that work to finish before the end of the year, according to Las Vegas Review-Journal.

    Steve Thompson, Executive Vice President of Operations, said at the opening: “Once we’re done, the entire Fremont casino will have the look and feel of this expanded casino space that you see — a modern, exciting new design for one of downtown’s most legendary properties.”

    The rebranding of Fremont Casino’s sportsbook to FanDuel was greenlit back in August by the Nevada Gaming Commission. FanDuel’s parent company, Ireland-based Flutter Entertainment, along with several of its subsidiaries –including FanDuel itself–, were then allowed to collaborate in the operation of the Fremont Casino property in downtown Las Vegas. 

    It was established early on that existing Boyd personnel would continue to run the sports betting operation, and FanDuel would not supply any technology. Under the agreement, FanDuel will provide advice on odds and risk management through Boyd’s existing IGT sports betting system.

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  • MGM CEO Bill Hornbuckle reappointed to US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board | Yogonet International

    MGM CEO Bill Hornbuckle reappointed to US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board | Yogonet International

    Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced Thursday the appointment of 32 leaders from businesses and organizations in the domestic travel and tourism industry to the US Travel And Tourism Advisory Board. Representing the gaming industry, President and CEO of MGM Resorts International Bill Hornbuckle is one of them. 

    TTAB members advise the Secretary of Commerce on how government policies and programs affect the travel and tourism industry and offer counsel on current and emerging issues to support the sustainable growth of the travel and tourism industry as the nation’s economic engine. 

    “Travel and tourism returned with force in 2022 as we opened up our country once again to visitors from around the globe. Since day one of the Biden Administration, the Commerce Department has taken decisive actions to support this industry’s recovery,” Raimondo stated. 

    “The US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board plays a vital role in providing expert recommendations and industry insight to optimize the American travel experience. I look forward to working with new and returning members,” she added. 

    TTAB was first chartered in 2003 and has been re-chartered nine times. Past boards have provided advice on a wide range of policies and issues, including travel facilitation, visa policy, infrastructure, aviation security, tourism research, climate and economic sustainability.

    The membership for the 2023-2024 term of TTAB includes representatives of state and regional economic development teams, businesses, and organizations such as Airbnb, Marriott International, Carnival Cruise Line, Tripadvisor, Booking, and more. 

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  • Massachusetts regulator appoints Bruce Band to oversee sports wagering division | Yogonet International

    Massachusetts regulator appoints Bruce Band to oversee sports wagering division | Yogonet International

    The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has appointed Bruce Band to lead its new sports betting division. The MGC intends to launch retail sports betting at category 1 licensees on January 31, with online and mobile wagering scheduled to follow in March.

    In addition to overseeing the new sports wagering division, Band will coordinate with other divisions within the MGC including research and responsible gaming, IT, legal, and the Investigations and Enforcement Bureau.

    The appointment took place at the regulator’s latest meeting, in which Fanatics was also granted a sports betting license. Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the sports apparel giant for a category 3 sports betting operator license, which will be tethered to Plainridge Park Casino‘s Category 1 sports wagering license.

    Cathy Judd-Stein, MGC chair, said: “Bruce has been an essential member of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission team for nearly a decade, and on behalf of my fellow commissioners, I am thrilled he will be taking on this new role leading our sports wagering division.”

    “Because Bruce has been working closely on the implementation of sports wagering already, he won’t miss a beat as he begins his new responsibilities and prioritizes the integrity of sports wagering and the safety of patrons here in the Commonwealth,” she added.


    Executive Director Karen Wells

    The Massachusetts State Legislature passed, and former Governor Charlie Baker signed legislation legalizing sports wagering in August 2022. As he works to stand up sports wagering in the Commonwealth, Band will report to Executive Director Karen Wells and the Commissioners.

    “Bruce is someone who gets the work done and I think his past track record of opening the three casinos here on time with integrity demonstrates his ability to do this role,” Wells added.

    Band has worked in the gambling industry for over 40 years and has served as assistant director of the MGC investigations and Enforcement Bureau and Gaming Agents Division chief since 2014. Prior to this, he worked in various roles at the New Jersey Casino Control Commission.

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  • Massachussetts regulator approves Fanatics sports betting license, tethered to Plainridge Park Casino | Yogonet International

    Massachussetts regulator approves Fanatics sports betting license, tethered to Plainridge Park Casino | Yogonet International

    The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has voted to approve Fanatics‘ request for a temporary sports betting operator license. Commissioners voted unanimously to approve Fanatics for a category 3 sports betting operator license, which will be tethered to Plainridge Park Casino’s Category 1 sports wagering license.

    Nonetheless, the company will need to undergo a full suitability review by the MGC’s Investigations and Enforcement Bureau, after which it will also be requested to present an operations certificate and meet additional conditions to begin accepting sports wagers. 

    Approval followed “multiple public meetings” of the MGC where Fanatics presented and Commissioners reviewed the entity’s application. Fanatics also agreed to approve an internal responsible gaming plan and provide that plan to the MGC.

    The preliminary approval comes after the company announced earlier this month it will use Amelco’s source code to power its sports betting product in the state. The MGC intends to launch retail sports betting at Category 1 licensees on January 31, with online and mobile wagering scheduled to follow in March.

    “FBG will launch its online wagering platform in Q1 2023, and will deploy that product to the majority of legal online wagering states before September 2023, including the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in partnership with Plainridge Park Casino,” the company said in a statement earlier this month.  

    Launches have been anticipated in Ohio and Maryland. Fanatics previously secured initial approval in both jurisdictions, thus meaning that one of the two markets may mark its debut in Q1 this year.

    In parallel, the MGC announced the appointment of Bruce Band to lead its new sports wagering division, in a role in which he will oversee the new division and coordinate with other divisions within the MGC including research and responsible gaming, IT, legal, and the Investigations and Enforcement Bureau.

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  • IGT’s Wheel of Fortune awards three million-dollar-plus jackpots in North America during December | Yogonet International

    IGT’s Wheel of Fortune awards three million-dollar-plus jackpots in North America during December | Yogonet International

    International Game Technology (IGT) announced Wednesday that its Wheel of Fortune and Powerbucks slots awarded three million-dollar-plus jackpots in the month of December. 

    • On December 8, an online Powerbucks slots player won CAD 1 million playing Wheel of Fortune Latin Getaways in Ontario, Canada.

    • On December 15, an online Powerbucks slots player won CAD 2.1 million, the second-largest jackpot in the history of the product, playing Wheel of Fortune Shimmering Sapphires in British Columbia, Canada. 

    • Finally, on December 31, a Wheel of Fortune slots player won $1.1 million playing Wheel of Fortune 4D at the Three Rivers Casino Resort in Florence, Oregon. 

    IGT Powerbucks slots have paid 44 jackpots of $1 million or more since their Canadian debut in 2016, says the company. Wheel of Fortune slots have minted over 1,100 millionaires and awarded over $3.4 billion in jackpots since their launch in 1996. IGT’s Wheel of Fortune awarded two $1 million+ jackpots in November.

    The Wheel of Fortune slot is inspired by the popular Wheel of Fortune TV program, which reaches more than 25 million weekly viewers. Trademarked as America’s Game, it has earned seven Emmy Awards including a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Game/Audience Participation Show.

    The monthly Wheel of Fortune report marks one of IGT’s first announcements in the new year. This January, IGT also reported that its IGT PlaySports technology is now live in Ohio.

    Through an agreement with Green Bear Gaming Development, operating as UBetOhio, IGT’s PlaySports QuickBet Kiosks have been deployed at restaurants and bars across the state. The company also plans to deliver its PlaySports Pads in the coming months.

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  • Cambodia implements new revenue-based taxation system for land-based casinos | Yogonet International

    Cambodia implements new revenue-based taxation system for land-based casinos | Yogonet International

    Cambodia is implementing a new taxation system for casinos, according to local media reports. The Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) officially adopted a new tax on gross gaming revenues model on December 30, replacing the country’s previous “lump sum” system, which had been in place for several decades and called for casinos to pay a flat rate on their revenue

    Commercial gambling businesses are now also required to follow the International Financial Reporting Standards. These are a set of accounting standards that govern how particular types of transactions and events should be reported in financial statements, and were developed by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).

    Mey Vann, Secretary of State of MEF, told Khmer Times that the new rules and procedures of taxation would enable the government “to improve transparency and accountability” in tax collection from Cambodia’s commercial gambling industry. They are also expected to help the government in the implementation of anti-money laundering and anti-corruption measures.

    “There would no longer be cases of hiding cash to be paid to the authority even by the casino owners and tax officials as the rules and procedures determine check-and-balance practices for the balanced power among operators, regulators, inspectors and other relevant stakeholders involved in the implementation of the new proclamation,” Vann explained to the cited source.

    “Check-and-balance practices mean all relevant parties are required to check or examine one another. None of them can exploit anything in the gambling business operations, while the casino party would not be able to cheat the gamblers and the gamblers would not be able to cheat the casino. Gamblers at casinos can file complaints if they have evidence,” Vann said.

    The revenue-based tax model comes more than two years after Cambodia’s long-awaited casino bill, the Law on the Management of Integrated Resorts and Commercial Gambling (LMCG), was passed into law. Vann also unveiled plans to force casino owners to change the word “casino” to “commercial gambling” on all signage once a five-year grace period expires, in an effort to market Cambodia’s casinos as “entertainment centers” instead of gambling hubs.

    “We cannot ask them to change immediately and so we have to give them some time and they are related to many factors such as their internal agreements and other legal aspects,” Vann told Khmer Times. The LMCG sets the tax rate on mass gaming at 7% and on VIP at 4%, as well as outlining a raft of other new regulatory controls. However, the MEF has noted that these controls will be gradually implemented over the course of the aforementioned five-year period.

    The new guidelines and procedures to implement tax obligations on the commercial gambling industry are divided into two folds that would enable the General Department of Taxation (GDT) to properly regulate the industry, Khun Darith of auditing firm K Professional Accountants (KPA) told Khmer Times. The regime calls for monthly and annual tax collections.

    “To me, this is a very good step for Cambodia to have such guidelines and procedures to properly regulate the industry. It is a very excellent step to have clear procedures and mechanisms for this gambling industry to implement their tax obligations, as there were no clear procedures before,” said Darith, noting there are more than 100 licensed casinos in operation.

    The new guidelines instruct all gambling businesses to register with GDT, declare all gambling income and other incomes from non-gambling activities, which will contribute to additional tax incomes, and maintain proper accounting records and retain the supporting documents and records for 10 years. Non-compliant casinos could face legal and regulatory action.

    The novel taxation system follows a previous call for a crackdown on illegal gambling establishments by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, amid a rise in kidnapping cases linked to illicit operations. The policies also make it clear that only licensed casinos can continue to operate in the country.

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  • Arkansas: Mobile sports betting sees its best month yet in November as market takes off | Yogonet International

    Arkansas: Mobile sports betting sees its best month yet in November as market takes off | Yogonet International

    Mobile sports betting is nothing but incipient in Arkansas. However, early market figures show the appetite for this form of wagering seems to be growing. Sportsbooks posted their best month yet in November with more than $30.5 million bet on sports, and handle-to-date reports show mobile is beating in-person sports gaming.

    The Arkansas Legislature’s Joint Budget Committee approved mobile sports betting through the state’s three existing casinos in February 2022. Southland Casino Hotel in West Memphis launched its mobile betting app, Betly, in March. Saracen Casino Resort joined the market in May, with its Bet Saracen app; and Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort went live with Oaklawn Sports in September.

    Thus far, Saracen has seen the most mobile success, handling more than $52 million in bets between May and November, according to the state Department of Finance & Administration. That is $42 million more than its on-site sports betting handle from January through November (sports betting on-site at Arkansas casinos had been approved by voters in 2018).

    Southland, which had the state’s first mobile betting app, handled $39 million between March and November, $13 million more than its on-site handle for the year. And Oaklawn’s mobile sports handle was $5 million for its first three months of operations, while it handled $20 million onsite through November.  

    As reported by Arkansas Business, Osi Imomoh, president and general manager of Southland, said: “We are very pleased with the performance of our Betly online and mobile sportsbook offerings. After about nine months under our belt, we are seeing positive growth – growth that is sustainable and doesn’t inflate the market with loss-leading promotions and bonuses that oftentimes come with the out-of-state national brands.”

    The Arkansas mobile sports betting model is rather unique in the US, as it requires 51% of the net revenue to be reserved for the casino, much higher than the average national rater. National sportsbook giants such as FanDuel and DraftKings had argued against that rule before the Arkansas Legislature adopted it in February.

    Carlton Saffa, chief market officer for Saracen, told the cited source that the state cut “its own path” in terms of regulating mobile sports betting, and that he believes the Arkansas scheme will prove to be “the right model.”

    Saffa notes that the usual agreement between casinos and sportsbooks in other states has the sportsbooks keeping up to 90% of the revenue. That makes the casino a silent, minority partner, according to the executive.  

    By keeping more money local, the Arkansas model will result in more jobs and more tax revenue for the state, Saffa argues. He also remarked there are three public policy reasons for gambling: jobs, taxes, and keeping revenue local.  

    Arkansas legislature

    “If you have created an environment where you have outsourced sports betting to a third party, very few jobs are created,” Saffa told the cited source. “If you’re giving away so much in promotions that the business is not sustainable, there are no taxes created.”

    While early results are positive, Oaklawn General Manager Wayne Smith told Arkansas Business that he believes there is “room for growth” as mobile sports betting has only been introduced for four to six months in the state. “As we found with our Oaklawn Anywhere horse racing app, it will take two to four years for the state to hit its peak,” he stated.

    But for now, operators have much to celebrate. November’s handle of more than $30.5 million made the month the most significant in the state’s history for sports betting thus far, reports Ozarks First. Previously, October had been the largest month, with $26.87 million in wagers. The state Department of Finance and Administration reports that more than $124 million has been wagered on sports since January 1. 

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  • Gaming Corps. signs deal to integrate its content into the GiG platform | Yogonet International

    Gaming Corps. signs deal to integrate its content into the GiG platform | Yogonet International

    Swedish developer Gaming Corps has partnered with iGaming platform and solution provider Gaming Innovation Group (GiG). The latest deal will enable the gaming studio to integrate its range of content into the GiG platform. 

    Content such as Penalty Champion, Tikiz N Juice, Stormy Witch, Coin Miner, Skyliner, and Cat Ching, alongside a popular bespoke offering across five game categories, will become accessible to the GiG network.

    Martin Collins, Director of Sales and Business Development at GiG, noted: “We’re always looking to make quality additions to our platform, ensuring we remain a provider of choice for the industry, and we’re delighted to be able to count Gaming Corps amongst that select group of partners.”

    For her part, Danielle Calafato, Head of Commercial at Gaming Corps, commented: “Throughout 2022 we have seen a rapid expansion at Gaming Corps, and securing a partner as prestigious as GiG means we will be able to offer more games in more markets, thus expanding our reach further.”

    “GiG has an impressive roster of brands to which they lend their expertise and platform services, and this partnership will allow us to reach new audiences,” the executive added.  

    GiG calls Gaming Corps “an established gaming company” with a background in video games that is now experiencing growth in the iGaming sector. Its portfolio consists of premium Plinko, crash, mine, table and slot games.

    This latest agreement follows GiG’s closure of its €45 million ($47.8 million) purchase of AskGamblers from Catena Media Plc last month. For its part, Gaming Corps detailed entry into the “high priority” Greek market in December, which was followed by an agreement with Sportingtec.

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  • Jackpocket launches in Arizona, its 15th US state | Yogonet International

    Jackpocket launches in Arizona, its 15th US state | Yogonet International

    Lottery app Jackpocket announced Friday its launch in Arizona in partnership with convenience store brand Circle K. Arizona players can now use Jackpocket to play lottery games including Powerball, Mega Millions, The Pick, Fantasy 5, and Pick 3 “all from the comfort of their own homes.”

    The mobile product “allows all Arizona players to order and view their tickets, check lottery results, receive prizes up to $599, and make payouts directly through the app,” explains the company. Winning tickets can be picked up or delivered so players can claim their prizes from the Arizona Lottery.

    Melissa Lessard, head of North American Marketing at Circle K, commented: “Circle K is proud to partner with Jackpocket to make this fun, user-friendly experience available to every player in Arizona. We strive to make our customers’ lives a little easier every day, and our partnership with Jackpocket aligns closely with this mission by making lottery more accessible, user-oriented and convenient.”

    As a third-party lottery courier service, Jackpocket aims “to broaden access to the Arizona Lottery through a seamless, digital experience for a mobile-first demographic.” Over 67% of Jackpocket players are between the ages of 18-45 years old, the business notes.

    Jackpocket players have won over $225 million in lottery prizes to date and 24 individual players have won prizes worth $1 million or more, according to the firm. Arizona is now the 15th state available for lottery play using the Jackpocket app.

    Jackpocket CEO and Founder Peter Sullivan, said: “Circle K is known around the world for offering quality products and services and is one of the top lottery retailers in Arizona.” 

    “Together, we are excited to offer long-time lottery enthusiasts and new players a more accessible and fun way to play their favorite lottery games. At Jackpocket, we are committed to innovating the digital gaming space in a safe and meaningful manner to ensure player safety,” he added. 

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  • Virginia lawmakers introduce legislation to create new committee on problem gambling | Yogonet International

    Virginia lawmakers introduce legislation to create new committee on problem gambling | Yogonet International

    Virginia lawmakers are pushing to create a new state committee on gaming addiction to tackle a feared rise in problem gambling, as wagering becomes more easily available and state and local governments chase extra tax dollars from lottery, casinos, sports betting, horse racing and slots parlors.

    A bipartisan pair of state lawmakers have introduced legislation to create a new committee on problem gambling. In a joint news release announcing the bill co-filed with Delegate Paul Krizek (D-Fairfax), Senator Bryce Reeves (R-Spotsylvania) said: “As Virginia moves forward with the expansion of gaming, it’s important that we understand the ills that come with it.”

    As more forms of legal gambling have become available, a Virginia problem gambling hotline has seen a sustained increase in calls from people seeking assistance, reports Virginia Mercury. The hotline, run by the nonprofit Virginia Council on Problem Gambling, has seen a 143% increase in intake calls over the last three years, with 816 calls last year from Virginia residents seeking help with gambling issues. 

    The new legislation calls for the establishment of a Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Advisory Committee by the state’s Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, which already deals with addiction and mental health issues. Its mission would be to “enable collaboration” between treatment providers and the gambling industry “on efforts to reduce the negative effects of problem gambling.” 

    If approved, the new committee would be chaired by the state’s problem gambling prevention coordinator, a position recently created within DBHDS, and feature representatives from all state agencies that regulate gambling. The gambling industry would have seats on the panel as well; and there would also be a spot for someone from the problem gambling council.

    In the lawmakers’ news release announcing the initiative, Krizek pointed to 2021 survey data showing that more than 21% of Virginia high schoolers said they had gambled or placed a bet in the past year, further reports the cited source.

    “We know from prevention research that people who begin gambling in their teens are at a higher risk of developing a problem with gambling,” Krizek said. “And that one of the fastest growing groups to have gambling problems are young adults.”

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  • bet365 posts revenue up 3% in financial year 2022, but profit plummets 90% | Yogonet International

    bet365 posts revenue up 3% in financial year 2022, but profit plummets 90% | Yogonet International

    Online betting giant bet365 has announced £2.8 billion ($3.4 billion) in 2022 revenue, corresponding to the financial year ended March 27, a figure that implies a 2.9% increase from the prior-year period. However, increased customer acquisition costs in new markets led to an almost 90% drop in profit, which totaled £49.8 million ($60 million) – down significantly from the £469 million ($565.8 million) profit reported in the prior-year period.

    While sports betting revenue declined by 2% year-on-year, gaming revenue climbed by 25%. The decline in sports gaming revenue was margin-based, as the total amount wagered increased during the period, and the number of active customers rose by 48%.

    As for the sharp drop in profit, the gambling giant primarily attributes it to £320 million ($386 million) in extra administration expenses, which include advertising in new markets and investment in IT infrastructure and technology. Recent launches for the brand include Buenos Aires, Argentina; Colorado, US; Ontario, Canada; and the Netherlands.

    Elsewhere in its report, the company noted staff numbers for the period rose to almost 6,100, up from 5,400 in the prior financial year, meaning staff costs were also up. However, some of this was offset by lower pay for directors, including chief executive Denise Coates — the company’s highest-paid director —, who received £213.4 million ($257.6 million), down by 16.5%.


    Denise Coates, bet365 CEO

    The company also discussed safer gambling in its report, stating: “The group is committed to delivering a safe environment for its customers and we continued to invest significantly in this area.” Improvements are being made to bet365’s Early Risk Detection System (ERDS), models that allow the group to identify and interact with customers at risk of, or experiencing, harm.

    “Evaluation of ERDS continues to demonstrate a highly positive impact on player behaviour and an increased use of gambling management tools,” said the operator, which added it continues to look forward to the publication of the UK Government’s long-delayed White Paper as part of the ongoing review of the Gambling Act.

    As for product development, investment in technology led to development with a specific focus placed on trading platform capability. Specific novelties include website enhancements; the introduction of a new Golf product and updated visuals within the Virtual Sports offering; the development of “Bet Builder” to introduce Rugby League, American Football and Australian Rules; the extension of the Match Live product by adding two esports games, and more.

    While the latest financial results may be somewhat disappointing given bet365’s major scale, the company still has much to look forward to in its next financial year report — especially given it will be impacted by the recent 2022 World Cup, expected to boost operations.

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  • Macau operators might face a hard time monetizing non-gaming ventures amid govt push for diversification, analysts warn | Yogonet International

    Macau operators might face a hard time monetizing non-gaming ventures amid govt push for diversification, analysts warn | Yogonet International

    Macau gaming companies MGM China, Sands China, Wynn Macau, SJM Holdings, Galaxy Entertainment, and Melco Resorts began operating their new licenses on January 1, following the conclusion of 2022’s bidding process. But while the businesses are eager to start welcoming guests to their casino floors, their fate also hangs in meeting the government’s mandate of diversifying away from gambling, by far their main source of income. However, experts and analysts believe monetizing non-gaming ventures might be hard to accomplish.

    For the past two decades, the six operators accumulated billions of dollars from their casinos in Macau, turning the once sleepy fishing village into a major gambling hub. Now, at a time when COVID-19 restrictions have caused a dramatic decrease in gaming revenues, resulting in what was the worst annual performance on record for 2022, operators were granted 10-year, shortened contracts.

    As of late, the region has recently seen a loosening of pandemic curbs, thus fueling optimism about a long-awaited recovery for the year ahead. Now, the city has moved to lift all restrictions for entry, only requiring a 48-hour test for foreign arrivals. Still, how a rebound will play out remains to be seen. 

    As reported by Reuters, casinos have committed to investing a total of $15 billion in the coming decade, 90% of which must be spent on non-gaming. However, executives and analysts believe operators will find it hard to monetize their non-gaming ventures given their poor track record since 2001, when the former Portuguese colony first liberalized the industry.

    Ben Lee, the founder of Macau gaming consultancy IGamiX, said that non-gaming revenues, which averaged around 5% of overall gaming revenues pre-COVID, must grow to more than 30% in the next decade. “For the past 20 years, none of the operators have managed to establish any significant progress in non-gaming,” he told the cited source.

    “Contrary to the vaunted Las Vegas model, non-gaming in Asia does not carry the same profit margin as spending behavior is quite different over here,” he noted while adding that Galaxy, Melco, and Sands were likely to fare better at diversifying based on their track record and management team.

    In December, following the formal awarding of their contracts, casinos unveiled non-gaming plans including indoor waterparks, health and wellness centers, art exhibitions, and a large garden attraction by Sands, similar to Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay.

    Macau’s current non-gaming attractions have focused on retail and dining, with some entertainment offerings such as Melco’s nightclubs, Galaxy’s cinema, Sands’ themed Venetian and Parisian properties, and its exhibition arena.

    But it pales in comparison to Las Vegas, which boasts daily entertainment and draws an international crowd, the above-mentioned media analyzed. More than 90% of Macau’s visitors are from greater China, prompting the government to require operators to attract foreign tourists as part of their new contracts.

    New rules also stipulate that companies must routinely submit to the government the progress of their investment projects, the value of their investments, and the execution period. Increased regulatory oversight comes as Macau casinos face much higher debt levels versus 2019. Net debt increased four-fold to $23 billion in 2022 and it may only peak by the end of 2023 at $24 billion, Morgan Stanley said in a December note.

    According to executives, the difficulties faced by Macau’s casinos are further exacerbated by a lack of connections to international markets, inadequate infrastructure, a dearth of skilled labor, and reputational damage due to their handling of the COVID crisis. 

    According to David Green, head of Macau gaming consultancy Newpage, Macau has few direct flights from potential markets outside China, while transport within the city is limited to move large groups of people around. “There is no indication that I have seen that the government is, or intends to address these weaknesses. Given the serial mismanagement of public works…it leaves concessionaires with a less than optimal host attraction proposition,” he stated.

    A lack of land also hinders further development, while competition to hold conferences and exhibitions is rife from cities like Hong Kong and Singapore and within China itself.

    Alidad Tash, who worked as a senior executive in Macau’s casinos since 2006 and now runs consultancy 2nt8, said the biggest challenge for operators was that mainland Chinese already have access to conventions, restaurants, shows, and shopping in their own cities. “What they come to Macau primarily for is the one thing that is not legally allowed within China: gambling,” he pointed out to Reuters.

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  • Ohio Governor warns gambling companies to comply with the state’s advertising rules after sports betting launch | Yogonet International

    Ohio Governor warns gambling companies to comply with the state’s advertising rules after sports betting launch | Yogonet International

    Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said he has taken a personal interest in enforcing state regulations for advertising by gambling companies in his first comments on the subject since the launch of legal sports betting in the Buckeye State on New Year’s day. 

    DeWine told reporters Tuesday that he has shared his concerns directly with the executive director of the Ohio Casino Control Commission, the state agency that regulates betting in Ohio, as well as with several members of the casino control commission’s board. 

    “The companies that are doing the massive advertising need to be aware that they’re being looked at very closely by the governor and the Casino Control Commission in regard to statements that they are making,” he said, as reported by Cleveland.com.

    “We believe that at least on several occasions they’ve already crossed the line. My message to them is that this will not be tolerated in the State of Ohio,” he further stated.

    One of the occasions involves a $350,000 fine the commission wants to levy against sports betting giant DraftKings, which allegedly sent advertisements to underage customers. State regulators said the company mailed roughly 2,500 advertisements to people under the age of 21.

    The regulator stated it is taking administrative action against the company for what it said is a violation of Ohio’s sports gaming advertising rules. The operator will be able to request a hearing, and no fine will be issued until the company gets due process. 

    “The Commission has been very clear about the rules and standards for sports gaming advertising with the industry, and are disappointed with the lack of compliance we have seen despite reminders,” said the commission’s executive director, Matthew Schuler, this month.

    Dave Portnoy, Barstool founder

    But DraftKings is not the only company to be put on notice. Barstool Sportsbook was issued a notice of violation earlier in December because of an event held at the University of Toledo’s campus. Advertising on or near college campuses is also against Ohio’s sports betting rules.

    DeWine also called attention to the promotions gambling companies are offering, such as those extending free betting credits, as part of the competition to draw customers in the fresh betting market.

    “That’s a pretty clear line they cannot cross,” DeWine further said, as reported by the cited source. ”I also think they must be very careful, candidly, in regard to the claim of ‘free money and free gaming.’ When you look at the fine print, or try to figure out what it really means, it doesn’t mean what certainly is being implied by the TV advertising.”

    DeWine signed the bill legalizing sports gambling in Ohio in December 2021, but it only became legal on January 1, 2023. The state spent the last year setting up the program, including developing regulations and licensing operators for mobile and in-person sports betting.

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