Year: 2024
Celebrity Gambler – Martin Moshal: The Microgaming Man backing South African politics
By Ramona Depares
He may not love the limelight, but the limelight certainly loves him! Meet Martin Moshal, one of the men who’s had the strongest influence on the best online casinos. Born in Durban, Martin is reputed to be behind the lion’s share of political funding ahead of South Africa’s 2024 general election, helping the Democratic Alliance, Action SA and Build One South Africa achieve their aims. Just to put things in perspective, these are three of the most important players on the SA political landscape.
But this is not the main reason we’re interested in Martin. We’ve already mentioned that he’s one of the biggest names in the gambling world. This is because Martin is reputed to have made all the money that allows him to contribute to political and philanthropic causes in the online casino industry.
Although he’s not fond of giving interviews, leading journalists like The Guardian’s Rob Davies have credited him with changing the face of online casino real money gambling in his book Jackpot: How Gambling Conquered Britain. In fact, he is widely believed to have created the world’s first online casino software through Microgaming, which he also founded. Hence, he enjoys the nickname ‘The Microgaming Man’ to this very day.
This first breakthrough took place way back in 1994, when online casinos looked nothing like they do today and Martin was a fresh-faced graduate from the University of Cape Town, where he had specialized in information technology, accounts, business administration and economics. It was just the perfect mix of subjects to springboard his idea for a casino software company.
Back then, Martin didn’t have access to the fortune he enjoys now, and it took a bank loan from SA bank Discover Bank Ltd to make this dream a reality. Given his age and lack of experience, to secure the loan he had to offer a 50% ownership in what was to become Microgaming to the bank. The ploy worked, and the rest is online casino history.
Today, Martin is based in Australia, and he’s faced his fair share of challenges. The biggest spot of trouble he encountered was undoubtedly in 2020, when he was revealed to be the secret owner of Betway, which at the time was facing allegations of failing to meet responsible gambling requirements by offering cash bonuses to those suffering from gambling problems.
Martin had to admit to the ownership after the British media broke the news that he was the owner of an Isle of Man trust that was the main shareholder of Betway at the time.
Martin Moshal Statistics
| Born: | Durban, South Africa |
| Birthday: | 8th November 1971 |
| Lives: | Sydney, Australia |
| Wife: | Ilana Moshal |
| Parents: | John and Anna Moshal |
| Siblings: | Karen, Anthony, Richard |
| Studied: | Information technology, business and finance at the University of Cape Town |
| Career: | Entrepreneur, philanthropist |
| Claim to fame: | Founded Microgaming and created the first online gambling software |
| Net worth: | Unknown |
| Interests: | South African politics |
| Biggest donation: | R46.5 million rand ($3.8 million) to SA political parties |
Martin Moshal: The Microgaming Man
When Martin Moshal graduated, the world was a very different place to what it is now. The online space was still full of undiscovered potential, and nowhere was this more evident than in the sphere of online casinos.
Martin’s interest had always veered heavily towards online gambling, a topic he was very passionate about – and not just as a player. He was always described by friends and acquaintances as having one big dream, that of creating the first online gaming software that would popularize top online casinos and make them accessible to the vast public.
Martin’s academic background in finances and tech made him ideally-placed to be able to pursue this dream, as did his passion for political sciences.
It was 1994 when he got his proposal together and approached a South African bank, Discover Bank Ltd, for a loan. Although he met with a few challenges, the loan was eventually granted and Microgaming was born. Within four years, the company released its first game – Cash Splash, which was also the world’s first progressive online slot. Cash Splash was an immediate hit, popularizing online casino games and spawning multiple sequels and variations. To date, more than 27 years after its release, it remains a fan favorite.
Throughout the company’s early years, Martin was responsible for the vast majority of its successes, getting in a number of patents for game mechanics and jackpot wagering. By the time the company moved to Isle of Man in 2021, it was estimated that more than one-third of the world’s online casinos were serviced by Microgaming. Martin’s dream had officially become reality.
Today, Microgaming is synonymous with high-quality gaming software, and it has produced a stable of titles are considered the cream of the crop of games, present at all the best online casinos. Thanks to games like Thunderstruck, to Big Bad Wolf and Breaking Da Bank, the popularity of online gambling was secured.
Partnerships with Martin Moshal
If you’re wondering how Martin went from being a broke graduate to one of the richest people in the world – although he refuses to disclose his actual net worth – the answer to that is his natural ingeniousness. Remember how Microgaming wouldn’t have been possible without a bank loan? Well, the bank loan wouldn’t have been possible without Martin’s ability to think outside the box – and a good dose of luck too, of course.
When Martin first approached the bank, he had zero credit or business experience and the request was initially declined. However, it did lead to a meeting of minds with one of the loans and business advisors employed at the bank. That man was Roger Raatgever, and he immediately fell in love with Martin’s idea to create the first online casino gaming platform. So Martin went back to him with a counter-proposal – approve the loan and he’d sign off 50% share of his new business.
The deal was sealed and Microgaming was born. This innovative approach followed Martin in everything he did, leading to further successes along the way. It’s not exaggeration to say that everything he touched turned to gold, even going as far as to earn the nickname CyberSol, a reference to the achievement of entertainment and hospitality magnate Sol Kerzner, incidentally a fellow South African.
Today, Martin has fingers in a number of pies in the tech industries and is involved in various investment and entrepreneurial activities, including venture capital firm Entree Capital, which brings together a team of investors to identify winning entrepreneurial ideas and has invested into more than 130 start-ups worldwide. Although Martin always manages to keep details under wraps, his interests remain very focused on software development and other tech-driven industries.
Martin Moshal and Philanthropy
Martin’s legendary status is not simply because he is rich and successful. It has a lot to do with his strong reputation as a philanthropist. He is the founder of The Moshal Scholarship Program, which was inspired by Martin’s own journey and the challenges he encountered within the education landscape. The aim behind the program is to provide promising students from underprivileged backgrounds with the financial support needed to pursue higher education in STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and maths).
The program has been active since 2009 and offers young people a full package of financial aid, mentoring, internships and even employment opportunities, going way beyond a regular scholarship. This has enabled students to equip themselves not only with education, but also with soft skills and the networking opportunities needed to foster successful careers.
Martin also is also reputed to be involved in other philanthropic efforts that are related to education, technology, and community development.
Closing Thoughts: Beyond the Billionaire
Martin Moshal is undoubtedly one of the most iconic figures in the online casino landscape worldwide, offering the perfect example of how business and philanthropy can work together to tremendous success. Although he continues to shy away from the limelight, plenty of those who have benefitted from his generosity regularly sing his praises online.
And, of course, casino players owe Martin an especially huge vote of confidence, as he was the main driver behind several gambling innovations that we take for granted nowadays. Clearly, crediting the man with the creation of the best online casino platforms is no exaggeration.
These 3 are considered the luckiest online casinos in New Zealand
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To be considered the luckiest Online Casino Real Money NZ pokies, there should be enough high RTP (Return to Player) pokies with an RTP% over 95%, powered by top-rated software companies. You should be able to find a large selection of Random Number-generated pokies and table games, video poker games, bingo games, and an exciting variety of Live Dealer Casino games.
If you’ve ever wondered how to improve your luck when gambling at New Online Casinos NZ, then here’s your answer: play high RTP games! By all means, check your horoscope to see if it’s your lucky day to gamble, but bet low and slow to begin with. A lucky gambler recently scored a NZ$600,000 payday by betting low and using casino bonuses and Free Spins for extra value.
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Lucky casino in NZ 3 – Christchurch Casino.com for NZ$10 deposit
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Find out why UK players should or shouldn’t use PayPal at casinos
When the first UK online casinos popped up in the mid-1990s, depositing funds required mailing checks or using tricky bank wires. How times have changed. Today’s UK punters enjoy a plethora of instant, convenient digital payment options.
Amongst the most popular are PayPal Casinos, the pioneering e-wallet and payment processor. With over 20 years in business and 300 million users worldwide, PayPal has become a household name. Its familiarity and ease of use appeals to UK gamblers looking for a straightforward way to fund their casino fun.
But is PayPal always the best bet? This quick guide will delve into the pros and cons of using PayPal at UK licensed online casinos. We’ll also highlight the top alternatives for players wanting to explore other secure, fast payment methods. Ready? Let’s jump straight into it!
Advantages of using PayPal at UK casinos
For UK gamblers, the decision to use PayPal for real money play at online casinos is a no-brainer given the key benefits it provides around security, speed and convenience. We take a look at the pros below:
Security and trustworthiness
Safety and security is the number one priority for any casino player when gambling online. After all, you want assurance that your personal information and funds are protected. PayPal offers that peace of mind with industry-leading security protocols. The company invests heavily in advanced encryption, fraud monitoring tools, and many other cybersecurity measures.
For starters, all financial transactions are secured through 128-bit SSL technology – the same level used by major banks. This keeps payment info and account details private when depositing or withdrawing with UK licensed gambling sites.
During account logins, users are asked to enter a randomly generated security code sent to their mobile device. This two-factor authentication provides an extra shield against unauthorized access.
Further protection comes via PayPal’s comprehensive Seller and Buyer Protection programs. These safeguard users against potential fraud or issues with services purchased through PayPal, thereby providing much-needed consumer confidence.
Given their sterling track record of safely processing billions in payments since 1998, PayPal has rightfully earned a reputation as an exceptionally secure and reliable payment service.
Transaction speed and convenience with PayPal
Nothing spoils the gambling experience more than lengthy delays on deposits or withdrawals. You want your money in play or winnings in hand swiftly. Once again, PayPal delivers on this front with deposits processed instantly to ensure funds are available for wagering within seconds of initiating a transaction.
Withdrawals are also exceptionally quick compared to traditional methods. While withdrawal times vary by individual casino policies, most sites process PayPal cash-outs within 24 hours.
Convenience and flexibility
Let’s face it, UK punters want to spend time spinning slots or wagering at tables, not messing about with lengthy payment procedures. Again, PayPal does a great job at this. Once you have set up your account and funded it, deposits only require logging in and confirming the amount. With a few clicks you’re ready for action at your chosen UK licensed casino.
The convenience factor extends to withdrawals. A simple request at the cashier is all that’s needed for winnings to be zapped back to your PayPal balance. For busy punters, that convenience and flexibility brings significant upside. PayPal lets you swiftly get to the good stuff – enjoying thrilling casino games.
Disadvantages of using PayPal at UK casinos
PayPal is clearly an attractive option, but UK players need to be aware of a handful of possible downsides that could affect their experience. We explore them below:
Fees and costs associated with PayPal transactions
PayPal itself does not charge for deposits or withdrawals within the UK. However, some credit card companies classify PayPal gambling transactions as cash advances. This triggers additional fees and higher interest rates.
For withdrawals abroad, currency conversion costs also come into play. Most reputable UK licensed casinos deduct a small percentage from payouts to account for exchange rates when sending to your PayPal balance.
These fees are generally minimal, but can accumulate over time for frequent gamblers. Some savvy punters may prefer Casino payment methods with less associated costs. But for most, the extra expense is a fair trade off for PayPal’s positives.
Limited availability at certain casino sites
While immensely popular, PayPal does have limited availability at some online casinos due to their company policies. PayPal prohibits transactions with gambling sites in jurisdictions where these activities have unclear legal status.
This does restrict PayPal as a payment option on sites not regulated under strict UK laws. However, most reputable casinos serving British punters integrate PayPal alongside other suitable methods. So there are still plenty of top PayPal casinos to enjoy.
Not ideal for high rollers
Given its focus on consumer satisfaction, PayPal does cap deposit and withdrawal limits. For the average UK punter though, there’s nothing to worry about as the thresholds stretch into the thousands to easily accommodate typical casino budgets.
But high rollers and VIP players making sizeable transfers may find PayPal inconvenient compared to payment methods with higher limits. As your gambling budget increases, alternatives like bank transfers are a better option.
Top PayPal alternatives for UK online casino payments
As we mentioned, PayPal will suit most UK punters needs, but it’s not the only secure, convenient payment option available. Let’s look at some of the top alternatives to consider:
Direct debit or credit cards
Good old debit and credit cards remain a popular standby for depositing and withdrawing at UK licensed gambling sites. Visa and MasterCard in particular boast nearly universal acceptance.
Funding your account directly via card provides convenience similar to PayPal – just enter your details and the transfer is instant. Withdrawals also hit your account promptly within days.
The main downsides are deposit limits, transaction fees, and the lack of buffer between your bank and the casino. But for punters who enjoy liquidity and cashback rewards, cards are a solid payment choice.
Online banking and e-wallets
Other increasingly popular options are specialised online banking and financial services like Trustly and Skrill. These allow digital transfers directly from your bank account to the casino. By linking your bank details, you can deposit and withdraw seamlessly without using an intermediary like PayPal. This provides faster payouts and higher maximums that appeal to VIPs.
The only real disadvantage is slightly less separation between your bank and the casino. But trusting a UKGC licensed site alleviates this concern for most players.
Prepaid vouchers
Lastly, don’t count out prepaid vouchers like Paysafecard. These cash vouchers purchased from local shops provide an easy way to fund your account without any bank details needed. While not supported for withdrawals, prepaid vouchers allow anonymous, hassle-free deposits. There are also no stress about limits or overdrafts. Just top up and play.
Conclusion
Most UK punters will find PayPal checks all the boxes but it’s always good to know your options. Thankfully, reputable UKGC licensed casinos provide a range of secure, convenient payment methods to suit different needs.
By understanding the pros and cons of PayPal and how it compares to alternatives, you can better select your ideal casino payment solutions.
So what are you waiting for? Sign up with a top PayPal online casino, fund your account, and start enjoying the UK’s leading slots, roulette, blackjack, and more from trusted operators. As always, gamble responsibly.
Who we rate should be your new casino for 2024 Canada edition
By Shadrack Kairu
As we continue pushing into this new year, it can be tempting to fall back into old habits and revisit the same favorite casinos you frequent all the time. But 2024 presents exciting opportunities to discover fresh platforms designed to excite even seasoned players.
With so many new minimum deposit casinos in Canada launching recently boasting huge game varieties, lucrative signup bonuses and next-gen features, why limit yourself to the same old brands this year?
In this quick guide, we share our top four recommended new low deposit casinos every Canadian should check out in 2024.
We will start you off with a new $1 deposit casino called Cat Casino
Cat Casino bursts onto the scene in 2023 flaunting an unbeatable offer for new players – deposit $1, get 55 free spins on fan favorite Sugar Rush. As one of the hottest new Curacao-licensed casinos around, Cat Casino provides smooth performance and a massive gaming collection that spans 4600+ titles.
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Beyond the $1 deposit casino offer, Cat Casino impresses across the board when you dive deeper. For example, the casino which is owned by reputable Traflow Media NV, has a proper licensing to guarantee fair, safe play. Besides, its enormous games catalog spanning all categories stems from partnerships with 70+ top studios like Play’n GO, Microgaming and Betsoft.
While focused primarily on slots, you can still enjoy popular table and card staples like blackjack and baccarat with multiple variants. Fans of poker, roulette and niche offerings have plenty to discover across the slick, modernized layouts too.
Real dealers hosting live streams provide that Vegas-style atmosphere for more interactive fun. Whether you prefer low, medium or high limit action, Cat Casino offers numerous options to suit all bankroll sizes.
The casino also supports a wide variety of banking gateways to ensure anybody can sign-up hassle-free and transfer funds securely in minutes. Pick from a dozen fiat methods like Visa/Mastercard, Interac, Instadebit, iDebit or e-wallets from ecoPayz, MuchBetter and Neosurf.
Privacy-focused players even have access to leading cryptocurrencies, including go-to options like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin and Ripple.
To learn more about the platform, check out our detailed Cat Casino review and don’t forget to grab those 55 free spins by clicking our exclusive promotional link inside.
Mr Fortune is a must try $5 deposit casino to try in 2024
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When it comes to player safety, this Malta-licensed platform from Green Feather Online Limited stores all financial transactions and personal data using bulletproof 128-bit SSL encryption and independent auditors. As such, you can feel playing here knowing your sensitive personal information is treated with utmost care.
For those willing to risk more try out Bwin Casino’s $10 deposit bonus
Seen Bwin around for sports betting and wonder if they operate casino products too? The answer is a yes. And the good news? The casino is running a new offer right now – deposit $10 get 50 free spins on one of several Egyptian folklore-themed slots like Book of Horus. You also get up to $400 in signup cash package, which you can use to sample thousands of games backed by some of the industry-leading suppliers.
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Our Bwin Casino review offers additional insights into what playing at this platform feels like, so be sure to check it out and also claim your sign-up bonus.
The best $20 deposit casino to try out in 2024 is My Empire Casino
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Like all top online casinos in Canada, My Empire is completely fair and safe to play at and implements security tools like website encryption, firewalls and random audits by external bodies. But don’t just take our word for it either. Click over to our in-depth My Empire Casino review for specifics behind their welcome offer, licensing, games and more before signing up an account.
Why you need to try out some new casinos in 2024
As we mentioned earlier, it’s so easy to start the new year playing at the same casinos simply from force of habit. However, by covering offers available at hot emerging platforms like Cat Casino, Bwin and My Empire, it’s evident players who explore fresh sites in 2024 have plenty of benefits to enjoy.
Of the brands we covered, Mr Fortune Casino stands out as our top recommendation. for starters, their $5 minimum deposit bonus offers such tremendous value. Claim a fantastic free spins bonus on popular Fruit Zen slot from Betsoft plus a 100% match bonus up to $700. With 2500+ exciting games, lucrative bonuses for existing players, and a respected license from MGA, Mr Fortune is a no-brainer new destination worth checking out this new year.
As 2024 progresses with more new casinos arriving monthly, remember to consult our frequently updated Canadian casino reviews page. Here, we highlight the latest welcome bonuses for existing brands plus emerging platforms showing potential, allowing easier comparison across game selection, payment methods, and customer service. Let us simplify the process of finding the best online casinos in Canada worth your time.
Countries Competing in Eurovision and Their Favourite Casinos
There are two things the world can agree on; the fun factor that Eurovision and Top Online Casinos deliver. With two semi-finals on 9 and 11 May and a final on 13 May, thirty-seven countries will be participating in Eurovision 2024. Bulgaria, Montenegro and North Macedonia decided not to participate because of the global crisis, but still, there will be much fanfare and fireworks, with Loreen from Sweden predicted to win again. This will be Sweden’s seventh win if she makes it, but other favourites include Finland, Israel, Italy, Norway, and the UK. Our article features the best Swedish, German, and Dutch fan-favourite online casinos to help you celebrate Eurovision with great bonuses and top slots.
Popular Casinos from Eurovision Countries
Online sports betting is big business, and voting on Eurovision’s winner keeps the excitement on high. International betting giant, Entain released its betting figures for the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest. After gathering data from UK brands Ladbrokes and Coral, Entain reported that bets for Eurovision increased by 23% this year. In the UK, 17% of the bets made were in favour of the UK artist Mae Muller for an outright win. That’s not surprising, seeing as Eurovision will be broadcast from the UK once again after a 20-year hiatus. In Sweden, 43% voted for Loreen to win. Entain is one of the largest international sports betting and gambling companies and owns Bwin, Coral, Ladbrokes, PartyPoker and Sportingbet.
Besides hosting the Eurovision Festival this year, Liverpool’s musical prowess is undeniable. Known as the World Capital of Pop in the Guinness Book of Records, it’s also where the Beatles come from. But Liverpool is also the UK city with the highest concentration of bookmakers, with one bookmaker reported for every 4500 people. Liverpool is also known for its love of sports betting, with many Liverpudlians placing regular bets on football matches, horse racing, and other sporting events.
The favourite Casino in the UK – Ladbrokes Casino
Eurovision marks its 67th edition this year, and although Ukraine’s Kalush Orchestra won last year with the public vote, Eurovision will be held at the Liverpool Arena in England. After a politically charged Eurovision final due to Russia invading Ukraine, UK’s Sam Ryder made his country proud with his catchy tune Space Man and placed second. UK’s Ladbrokes online casino and sportsbook has also been around for some time, since 1886, in fact, and then in 1964, became active at the Palazzo Dragonara, a Maltese hotel. Today, Ladbrokes is a much-loved online casino and sportsbook, and you can find out more in our Ladbrokes Casino Review UK. Join Ladbrokes for the first time, and hit the right notes with a Deposit £5 Welcome Bonus. After registering, stake £5 on bingo games, and you will get a £25 bingo bonus. There are many banking providers that you can use to make your deposit, including Apple Pay, PayPal, Neteller, PaySafeCard, Skrill or a pre-payment card like PaySafeCard.
Swedish fans’ favourite Casino – Leo Vegas
Swedish singer Loreen won the Eurovision Festival in 2012 with her song “Euphoria”. In 2024, Loreen will once again be competing, this time with a pop ballad called “Tattoo,”. Loreen, whose real name is Lorine Zineb Nora Talhaoui, is a Swedish-born artist to Moroccan immigrant parents. Singer, songwriter, political activist and reality star in her own country, Loreen has the spirit of a lion. As far as online casinos go, LeoVegas best represents Sweden. It may be one of the youngest players in the online gambling scene in Sweden, but like Loreen, it has become a true fan favourite. With over 1500 slots, casino games, and state-of-the-art software that runs smoothly on all types of devices, LeoVegas is gaining more loyal fans daily. Our Leovegas’s Swedish Casino review will tell you more.
If you’d like to try LeoVegas Sweden, follow our links to get to the casino, and once there, register a new player’s account. All new players at LeoVegas are welcomed with a fantastic welcome bonus of 100 Free Spins with no wagering requirements. Make a first deposit of SEK100, claim the welcome bonus and use your Free Spins Bonus on Cleopatra’s Golden Spells, Cash ‘N Riches Megaways or Fishin’ Pots of Gold.
A fan favourite for Germans is Spin Fever Casino
Germany will be competing in the 2024 Eurovision with their song “Blood & Glitter”, performed by Lord of the Lost. Germany has entered the Eurovision Song Contest sixty-four times since 1956 and won twice, in 1982 with Nicole’s song “Ein bißchen Frieden” and in 2010 with “Satellite” performed by Lena. At Spin Fever Casino, German players can collect an exclusive welcome bonus valued at €2000, and 200 Free Spins, for that winning feeling at this German fan favourite online casino. To claim the welcome bonus, German players should register at Spin Fever Casino and then make a deposit with either standard currency or cryptocurrency. On your first deposit, you can collect a 100% match bonus of up to €500 and 50 Free Spins. On your second and third deposits, there are more bonuses applied. Spin Fever Casino features slots, table games, live games, and instant wins games. Players can read through our Spin Fever Casino Review DE and learn all there is to know about the German Spin Fever Casino.
For the Netherlands, a fan favourite is Bet365 Casino
The Netherlands has participated sixty-two times in the Eurovision Song Contest and won five times. In 1957, Corry Brokken nabbed the trophy with her song “Net als toen”, in 1959 with the song “‘Een Beetje” by Teddy Scholten, in 1969 with “De troubadour” by Lenny Kuhr, in 1975 with “Ding-a-dong” by Teach-In, and in 2019 with “Arcade” by Duncan Laurence. In 2024, Mia Nicolai and Dion Cooper will be representing their country with the song “Burning Daylight”. The Dutch also have a favourite online casino, which is Bet365. Founded in a humble modular building, Bet365 has become one of the world’s leading casino players, with a premium online gambling spot that’s second to none. New players in the Netherlands can try Bet365 with a welcome bonus that can be unlocked with a €10 deposit. This offer is only valid for Dutch players over the age of 18 and offers 50 Free Spins that can be used on eligible games. Read our Bet365 Review for all the information on how the complete welcome bonus is structured and more about the games, promotions, payment providers and customer support.
Who do you think will take the Eurovision crown this year?
Eurovision is the longest-running annual singing contest in the world, with dozens of European nations competing. In 2024, the UK will again be airing Eurovision, this time from the Liverpool Arena. With Eurovision being Eurovision, we will just have to wait and see who grabs the trophy this time. After Sam Ryder’s victory in 2022 with his song, “Space Man”, Eurovision 2024 will be hosted in Liverpool. Known as the World Capital of Pop in the Guinness Book of Records, Liverpool’s musical prowess is undeniable. Who do you think will take the Eurovision crown this year? And while you ponder on this, be sure to try our featured fan-favourite online casinos. Boost your deposit with a welcome bonus, and play slots, poker, blackjack, roulette, jackpots, video poker and live casino games to celebrate Eurovision 2024.
ChatGPT says these are the most reliable online casinos in New Zealand
By Ginevra Alessandrello
Artificial Intelligence is here, leading us to the best NZ online casino, and we couldn’t be happier! An AI-powered language model, Chat GPT is a free flowing fountain of information.
It’s designed to understand and generate human-like text, and can help online casino players find the most reliable best NZ online casino sites!
We’ve been getting to know this AI ChatGPT enigma, at MinimumDepositCasinos.org, and it seems to be a sprightly bot, with quick answers, and even answers with emojis when he’s feeling witty. Our curious team asked it which are the most reliable top paying online casino, for our readers in NZ, and ChatGPT’s answer confirmed what we already knew.
According to the smartest bot in the universe, and our expert team at MDC, there are five NZ minimum deposit casinos that outshine all the competition. Do you want to know who they are?
SkyCity Casino in New Zealand
One of the best online casinos in NZ, SkyCity online casino has been around since 2019, with over 1000 best pokies, and casino games, and 70 No Wagering Free Spins and up to €1000 in free bonuses for new players that join.
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SkyCity online casino offers themed Slots, and table game variations of classic Blackjack, Roulette, Poker, and Baccarat, that can be enjoyed virtually or at the Live Dealer Casino of iOS and Android mobiles.
Kiwis that join can also try some of the latest scratchcard games and Virtual Sports, or log into the Live Dealer Casino and be enthralled with Evolution Gaming’ spectacular live games collection. It is a trusted site, known for fast payments, safety and security.
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JackpotCity Casino in New Zealand
Next we have Jackpot City, that opened in 1998 and has survived throughout the years by providing entertaining real money casino games for players globally.
During COVID, when New Online Casinos NZ sites exploded in popularity, Jackpot City upped the ante and became one of the most popular casinos online because of its worthwhile welcome bonus, the best pokies, and casino games by top rated software developers. It is known for its reliability in paying out winnings, top notch security, and its amazing games.
Jackpot City Online Casino is owned by Bayton Ltd, and as a 1 dollar deposit NZ Casino site, Kiwis can be certain that here low budget gambling, with big bonuses is the order of the day.
This long-established Jackpot City is still impressing Kiwis with their exciting variety of Microgaming pokies and table games
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To deposit, use the country-specific casino banking options, such as VISA, Mastercard, eWallets Neteller, Skrill, ecoPayz, PaySafeCard, and Direct Bank Transfer. Withdrawals are processed in 24 hours, and then bank cars and bank transfers can take up to 5 working days to deliver, and eWallets like Neteller and Skrill are the fastest, with wins delivered in 24 hours or less.
LeoVegas Casino in New Zealand
LeoVegas Casino has pride of place as being one of the very best gambling spots in NZ. It’s been online for over 12 years, and has become more majestic than ever.
Online since 2012 at NZ online casinos, the online casino real money NZ LeoVegas mobile casino has kept up with the times by offering cutting-edge new technology, and a mobile first casino, where on the go players can enjoy everything desktop casinos can do.
Some of LeoVegas best qualities includes an excellent reputation from players globally, many industry eGaming awards, progressive jackpots that can pay six and seven figure wins, Live casino tables available 24/7, and various responsible gambling tools and options.
LeoVegas offers Kiwis a state-of-the-art LeoVegas App with all the latest pokie releases and high quality Live Casino games. To find out more about this king, feel free to read our LeoVegas Casino review at your leisure.
Spin Casino in New Zealand
One of our most loved NZ casino sites, Spin Casino is a great place to start your casino journey, and in our Spin Casino review our experts tell you all you need to know. The first focal point at Spin Casino is the selection of games which includes an impressive supply of top pokies, progressives, and table games.
There are hundreds of classic and modern pokies to choose from supplied by software companies such as NetEnt, Microgaming and Foxium. Players from NZ can also get stuck into a great variety of jackpots like Microgaming MegaMoolah who has pride of place in the Guinness Book of Records for the world record for the biggest prize ever won online, NZ$18,915,872, won in 2018 by an anonymous player.
Blackjack fans will go wild at Spin’s Live Dealer Casino with over 20 different versions of blackjack to enjoy, including Multi Hand Blackjack and Atlantic City Blackjack. There are plenty of roulette games to play too, plus baccarat, craps and sic bo, along with nice variety of video poker games.
While live casino games are a reasonably new addition at Spin Casino and doesn’t yet match some other NZ Casinos, in terms of Live Games quantity, the quality is superb as it is provided by Evolution Gaming.
888 Casino in New Zealand
Our last ChatGPT inspired online casino is 888 Casino, formed in 1997, and today has become an example of how a prize-winning online gaming hub should look like. A firm favourite with gamblers around the world, 888 Casino NZ,
We at MDC will only feature online minimum deposit casino NZ sites that are properly licensed and regulated, with certified RNG tests to ensure fair games, for a safe online playing experience. 888 Casino is licensed with the Gambling Commission in the UK, and by the trusted Government of Gibraltar, so it’s legit.
Kiwis can use a wide range of popular, secure banking methods at 888 Casino which is ideal as it makes moving money to the casino effortless. Players can use Visa or Mastercard, Apple Pay, ecoPayz, Neteller, Skrill, or a bank wire transfer, and deposits are instantly cleared, while 888 Casino payouts are quickly processed and back in your account in 24 hours with eWallets and u to a week for Visa, and Mastercard.
As licensed online casinos in NZ, with eCogra certification to ensure fair games, and all the needed online security features in place, ChatGPT and Minimum Deposit Casino agree that 888 Casino is one of the best and most reliable online casinos in NZ.
Swipe Right for low-deposit casinos with mobile apps in Canada
By Ramona Depares
Fact: Canadian players highly value online casinos that offer a spectacularly smooth performance when gambling on the go. It’s hardly surprising that many Canuck players enjoy a flutter from their mobile devices, making the best online Canadian casinos that cater to this preference.
The advantages are obvious – goodbye boredom while queuing at the corner store, or anywhere. Commutes are infinitely less annoying if there’s the thrill of an excellent Canadian online casino app to keep you entertained. We could keep going about the convenience of mobile gambling sites, but you get the picture.
At Minimum Deposit Casinos Canada we’re on a mission to help you raise your mobile gambling a notch or two higher. We’ve tried and tested the most reliable Canadian sites with dedicated apps for playing on the go, and the results are in. Fasten your seat belts and settle in for a super gambling journey with our winners – Lucky Nugget Casino and JackpotCity.
Play on the go with the Lucky Nugget App
Your Lucky Nugget app is ready and waiting for you, with a super fast download developed by Sugarbush Worx (PTY) Ltd that will open the door to seamless real money gambling. Owned by Baytree (Alderney) Ltd, the Lucky Nugget app gives you access to a luscious welcome bonus and the entire suite of casino games. Whether you’re a slots guy, a live casino lover or a poker paladin, you’ll be able to enjoy all of them with one click.
What makes this app special? For starters, it’s compatible with iOS and Android devices, so you can use it from your iPhone, your iPad, your Samsung, or whatever kind of device you prefer. Its design is sleek and very user-friendly, with a handy menu that allows you to see all your options in one go. If you’ve already logged in to Lucky Nugget from the desktop version, you simply need to key in your existing credentials and you’re good to go.
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While the free spins don’t have a specific time limit within which to use them, you’ll need to make use of the match deposit within 2 months or it will expire.
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Even a Blackberry can be used at JackpotCity
Another app developed by Sugarbush Worx, the JackpotCity casino app comes in hot as the number 9 most popular real money casino app on the iOS App Store. It’s easy to see why because this is also a slick, brightly coloured app that makes playing on the go an absolute pleasure. It’s compatible with any kind of mobile device, and you don’t even need to own the latest smartphone to enjoy a spin or three. The app can even be used on a Blackberry, and you won’t encounter any hiccups or issues.
If you’re registering at this online casino in Canada for the first time, you’ll be asked to key in a few personal details. Following that, you’ll be able to log in using facial or fingerprint recognition for a simpler and smoother experience. If you’ve already registered via a desktop site, input your existing credentials once and you’ll be all set.
The JackpotCity casino app boasts all the same attractive features as the regular platform. This means that you get to enjoy the hundreds of casino games in the lobby, you’re given indicators when the hot jackpots are about to drop, and you get a super welcome bonus that you can pick up directly from the casino app.
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Pick up your welcome bonus and learn more about this online casino in Canada by clicking on our JackpotCity casino review.
Romania moves to ban gambling venues in small towns
By Shadrack Kairu
Stricter gambling laws are coming to Romania. The lawmakers have approved Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu’s executive order that bans gambling venues in small towns and villages with populations not exceeding 15,000 residents. The so-called “law on slot machines” was reportedly passed by the Chamber of Deputies via a unanimous vote. Some 243 deputies voted in the ban’s favour, four were absent, while two did not vote. As traditional gambling venues face these new restrictions, many players may turn to online casinos as an alternative, seeking a regulated environment to continue their gaming activities.
This legislation is one of its kind in the history of gambling in Romania. It states that slot machines and gambling facilities should not appear near remote areas and sparsely populated towns. It effectively criminalizes gambling in localities with populations of less than 15,000 people.
Two main reasons given by the parliament were considered critical in justifying the passing of this legislation. These include tackling the issues of gambling addiction and mitigating the potential consequences posed by unregulated gambling in Romania.
Through this legislation, first and foremost, policymakers hope to reduce excessive gambling. Additionally, they aim to protect vulnerable communities from exploitation and put brakes on the rapid proliferation of gambling venues, primarily in small localities. As reported, this ban will affect almost 90% of all localities in Romania, signalling a noteworthy shift in the country’s approach to regulating its gambling sector.
Stats on gambling in Romania
Gambling in Romania officially took off in 1906 when the country installed its first democratic government. The dictator’s regime was overthrown to pave the way for introducing a liberal economy. Right now, gambling in this southeastern European country is conducted on a large scale.
The National Gaming Office, the state body that registers and approves the sector, states that the Romania gambling market consists of about 12,000 land-based gambling venues. It’s in these facilities that sports betting services, casino games, lotteries, bingo, and other gambling forms, are offered to the public. These venues pay taxes to the government in the form of license and advertising fees and ticket sales. The proceeds are used to fund public works and services.
It’s worthwhile to note that online gambling in Romania became legal in 2010. With that, trusted internet operators were entitled to receive a government license. Online gambling in the country had reached new levels by the early 2000s.
Online gambling operators contribute tax revenues to the government as do land-based venues. But in addition to annual licensing fees, online providers are to pay authorization fees, responsible gaming contributions, online gamers’ winnings, and miscellaneous fees.
Romania’s revenue in the online gambling market is projected to reach $809.50m in 2024, according to Statistica, with an annual growth rate of 5.6% from 2024-2029. It will thus result in a projected market volume of $1.063m by 2029.
Specifically, the user penetration in the online gaming market will hit 3.5% in 2024, indicating a remarkable surge in online gambling activity.
The proliferation of gambling across the country has prompted the government to tighten its gambling regulation measures. In 2015, Romania introduced its first comprehensive gambling law. This was intended to address the rapid spread of gambling and to ensure a secure, fair, and responsible gaming environment for its citizens.
As if that was not enough, in October 2023, the Romanian government introduced newer, stricter sets of restrictive measures for the gambling sector. Notably, the Ministry of Finance announced a huge hike in license fees for gambling operators. Operators will now pay €500,000/year for an online casino license, €200,000 for a lottery license, and €100 per machine for video lottery terminals licenses. Others are casino licenses costing €4,000 per table, bingo gaming halls costing €5,000, and poker costing €5,000 per club. Licenses for telecast bingo games will now cost €500,000.
But even as the government rolls out all these measures, there’s no recent data to show exactly how many Romanian citizens suffer from gambling addiction. According to Euronews, the last survey was reportedly done in 2016 and found that there were an estimated 100,000 addicted gamblers in Romania. However, the source cautions that the number today could be even higher.
Recent research by Save the Children shows that 1 in 7 children across the country spends money on gambling. Also, it shows that at least 10% of Romanian children have a parent who spends money on gambling.
What Legislators say about gambling
Proponents of the law say that the passing of the legislation is a major milestone towards curbing the negative influence of excessive gambling on vulnerable populations. Following the law’s passing, the PM took the opportunity to declare the coalition government’s victory over illegal gambling operations reaching remote and densely populated country areas. He reportedly said that this marks the end of the “good old days” for illegal gambling facilities as the ban will likely affect nearly 90% of such establishments in Romania.
Alfred Simonis, the leader of the Social Democrats, echoed the PM’s sentiments. “It is the first law adopted in Parliament in 30 years against this mafia that has controlled the political world until now,” he said.
He stressed the need to take decisive actions in controlling the pervasive influence of gambling in Romania. “Right now we are fighting an industry that has a total turnover of €10-12 billion”.
Meanwhile, some factions raised questions over the manner in which this legislation was formulated. Descending voices within the parliamentary chamber said the government could’ve taken stricter measures to address the detrimental impacts of gambling on society. They criticize the government for not consulting with stakeholders prior to its implementation or, respectively, question how the population figure of 15,000 was reached. Some even accuse the authorities of collusion with the gaming sector due to the perceived leniency of measures taken by the government.
Ionut Mosteanu, the leader of the opposition USR, is on record saying “They thought that slot machines only damage 15,000 people”. He further stated, “There was not even a debate to see how many townships qualify for this 15,000. Why not 16, 17, why not two million and you would ban them definitively?”
On the other side, industry players from the gambling sector remained optimistic that, through this new piece of legislation, the authorities will effectively stamp out the black market, which they said thrives in the absence of legal gambling options.
It is worth noting that this legislation was first introduced on 6 October 2023. Under the Romanian Constitution, it was supposed to go through both the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate for approval. However, the government through PM Ciolac signed an Emergency Ordinance that allowed the bill to move to the lower house of parliament for fast tracing.
Upon the parliament’s discretion, the legislation could be approved as it is, approved with amendments or rejected altogether. If rejected, it would no longer be effective.
Now that this ordinance has been approved, it rests with Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, who may decide to put it into law or send it back to parliament. If approved, the law states that it will take effect within 10 days of being officially enacted.
According to reports, once this ban comes into force, it will affect the operations of Romania’s 27 licensed sports wagering operators. Even market leaders such as SuperBet, Rizio, StanleyBet, Mozzart Kladionica, and Fortuna Entertainment, will be affected.
Atlantic City casino workers head to court to have smoking banned at land-based casinos
By Ramona Depares
Atlantic City casino players who enjoy a smoke or two at the tables and slots may very well see their plans go up in smoke, as the long-debated ban for smoking at land-based casinos in the US is now heading to court for a definitive ruling.
Naturally, this isn’t an issue players at the top online casinos face, but the controversy at retail outlets has been raging for quite some time. Since 2006, in fact, when the Smoke-Free Air Act was enacted to guarantee a smoke-free environment for US workers. The act, however, exempted all casinos from its provisions.
Atlantic City casino workers, as well as some of the gamblers themselves, have long complained about exposure to second-hand smoke at these venues. Now, United Auto Workers and another group representing casino employees have filed a lawsuit demanding that the law be amended to extend its protection to casino workers.
How harmful is second-hand smoke at land-based casinos?
The continued rise of online casinos in the US may have pushed the issue to the back burner, but the health risks associated with second-hand smoke in casinos are significant and well-documented. Independently carried out research has been pretty consistent in confirming that casino workers and patrons are exposed to dangerous levels of toxic substances when smoking is permitted.
A study conducted by the BMJ Journals (Babb S, McNeil C, Kruger J, et al Secondhand smoke and smoking restrictions in casinos: a review of the evidenceTobacco Control 2015;24:11-17.) goes as far as to say that “there is no safe level of secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure”. The study describes smoking in casinos as a “significant public health problem”, adding that both casino employees and guests are exposed to high levels of SHS”.
This was confirmed by the elevated levels of tobacco-specific biomarkers in blood tests carried out on non-smokers. Even more worryingly, the study revealed that partial smoking restrictions, or designated smoke-free zones, did not do anything to protect non-smokers from SHS. The study concluded that this risk to employees and patrons is both significant and preventable, calling it “imperative for public health and workplace safety that smoking in casinos be stringently regulated or completely banned”.
The BMJ Journals noted that the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers agreed that “at present, the only means of effectively eliminating health risk associated with indoor exposure is to ban smoking activity.” The statement also referred to a study of 25 casinos in the UK, where 83% of participants reported being nearly always exposed to SHS at work, 78% stated that they minded if people smoked near them at work, 57% believed they had health problems as a result of second-hand smoke at work and a whopping 65% supported banning smoking in all customer and working areas of their casinos.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) echoes the words of the above, calling SHS at land-based casinos a “cause of premature death among US workers”. Casino workers, according to the American Cancer Society, face a higher risk of illness caused by SHS than any other workers.
This risk includes a higher incidence of lung cancer. Casinos were found to have nicotine concentrations that are 2.4 to 18.5 times higher than in offices and homes, and 1.5 to 11.7 times higher than in restaurants. The ACS quotes a study by Achutan C, West C, Mueller C., Boudreau Y, and Mead K (2009) on the impact of SHS in Pennsylvania casinos, which found that exposure causes five times as many premature deaths as the mining disasters that had afflicted the state.
In studies carried out by the National Cancer Institute, casinos were also found to have 12 times as many smoke particles than you find outdoors, with nicotine and a number of toxins – including carcinogens, benzene, naphthalene, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde. Moreover, casino guests were found with significantly elevated levels of a lung carcinogen caused by tobacco after a four-hour visit to a casino where smoking was allowed.
Studies quoted by the ACS also suggest that partial bans don’t work, as a study in 21 Nevada casinos revealed that guests at a non-smoking restaurant that was adjacent to the gaming areas where smoking is permitted had 60% of the amount of SHS as guests in the smoking areas.
Even the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has weighed in on the matter. A blog post by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) describes how the Institute has gone on record saying that “even low levels of secondhand smoke exposure can be harmful” and even recommended that smoking right next to building entrances and air intakes should be prohibited so as to prevent any smoke from entering indoors. The Institute added that casinos should appoint a physician to evaluate employees who were suffering from respiratory issues origins from workplace exposures.
Finally, the National Cancer Institute leaves no room for doubt about the perils of second-hand smoke to casino workers, noting that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. National Toxicology Program, the U.S. Surgeon General, and the International Agency for Research on Cancer have all classified secondhand smoke as a known human carcinogen. It added that some research also points to an increase in breast cancer, nasal sinus cavity cancer, and nasopharyngeal cancer in adults.
When one considers all this, together with the fact that the National Council of Legislators from the Gaming States had actually passed a resolution to support 100% smoke-free gaming venues as long ago as 2009, it is hardly surprising to see that casino workers in Atlantic City and across the US are up in arms about it.
What the lawsuit states
So what is the basis of the lawsuit? Put simply, casino workers’ representatives are disputing an exemption found in the Smoke-Free Air Act. Although this act bans smoking in enclosed, indoor public places and workplaces, it contains a section that specifically exempts all land-based casinos and bingo parlours from this ban.
According to news reports, the lawsuit names New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and State Health Commissioner Kaitlan Baston as failing to protect the health of casino workers by not including them in this ban.
The lawsuit was filed by the United Auto Workers union, representing workers at Bally’s, Caesars and Tropicana casinos in New Jersey alongside a group called Casino Employees Against Smoking’s (Harmful) Effects (CEASE).
What are workers hoping to get from the lawsuit?
The Atlantic City smoking ban lawsuit hinges on the casino workers’ claim that the exclusion is considered unconstitutional in New Jersey because it grants favouritism to the casinos. The exemption also denied workers their state constitutional right to safety and equal protection.
Claiming that some casino workers have suffered cancer as a result of this situation, the lawsuit is asking for the exemption granted by the Smoke-Free Act to be declared unconstitutional. While the NJ Health Department refused to comment pending litigation, in reality, there has been some progress made in the battle as the governor has gone on record to say that he would sign a bill banning smoking in casinos.
How Will This Lawsuit Affect Casinos In Other States?
How this will affect other gambling states across the US remains to be seen, with Pennsylvania already seeking to amend its own Clean Indoor Air Act of 2008 to include a ban in casinos and bars. Should the Atlantic City casino workers lawsuit be successful, it is likely to have wider-reaching implications for casinos across other states.
If this were to pass, it is also very likely that US online casinos will see an increased surge in popularity, with gamblers who don’t want to give up smoking while enjoying their pastime spending more time online in the privacy of their homes.
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SmokeAce offers multiple reliable payment options for getting your loot in and out of the casino. We’re here to make sure you know the great options for wrangling your hard-earned cash within your budget.
Here are your smokin’ deposit options;
- Debit and Credit Cards: Use your Mastercard and Visa card for deposits. The transaction will be instant, and you can start spinning to catch your wins.
- E-Wallet: SmokeAce provides Neteller, Skrill, and eZeeWallet with an easy and fast way to make deposits. E-wallets usually act as a buffer between the casino and the bank, offering an extra layer of security for your personal information.
- Cryptocurrency: This is for the tech-savvy gunslinger who prefers to be anonymous and secure when making their deposits. Unfortunately, making a deposit with crypto takes longer, about an hour or more.
- Bank Transfer: If you’re an old-school folk who prefers to make a bank transfer deposit, that’s okay. However, your loot will take a couple of days to mosey in. So you will need to plan this accordingly.
- Prepaid Cards: Paysafecard is also available, and it is also an anonymous option if you prefer. All you have to do is purchase a voucher with your specific value, and then you can use the pin to make a deposit. Paysafecard is great as it has a lower deposit value than other deposit methods.
- Deposits: How to cashout your loot;
- E-wallets: You can withdraw using Neteller or Skrill, which are faster than bank transfers. The process time will take between 24 to 48 hours.
- Bank Transfer: This method is very secure but takes longer to withdraw your cash. The process time will take between 24 to 48 hours. However, the withdrawal amount is higher compared to other withdrawal methods.
SmokeAce has a minimum withdrawal threshold, so you must ensure your winnings hit that amount before you can cash out your loot. Always go through the terms and conditions to see the withdrawal and deposit limits, verification procedures, potential fees, and processing times.
What we thought of SmokAce Casino
From what we have seen, SmokeAce Casino brings all the tools to make a lone ranger rich. It offers over 7,500 exciting games from some of the most trusted software providers, such as Evolution, Pragmatic Play, Microgaming, Betsoft Gaming, Wazdan, and Play’n Go, to offer you a great gaming experience. Whether you’re a table game enthusiast, prefer live casino, or prefer different kinds of slots that include progressive slots, SmokeAce has you covered.
SmokeAce has a great, user-friendly platform built for a smooth and enjoyable experience. The platform is easy to use, and they have made it accessible for you to locate your favourite games and explore new ones. Unfortunately, the casino does not have a mobile app. However, it is mobile-friendly, as you can use it through your internet connection on your mobile devices, tablets, or desktops. This means you can saddle up from anywhere, anytime, to play for some smokin’ wins.
Register and make a deposit to claim your generous welcome offer of a match bonus of up to $/€2,000 plus 225 free spins to boost your bankroll. You will have multiple and reliable banking methods to make deposits and withdrawals. SmokeAce is licensed by the trusted Curacao Gaming Authority, which ensures that the casino is fair and that your personal information and loot are always safe.
You don’t have to take our word for it; explore SmokeAce Casino and experience the Wild West of wins. For more detailed information, read through Minimum Deposit Casino’s SmokeAce review. If the Wild West does not work for you, MDC has multiple casinos you can pick through, including $/€1, $/€5, $/€10, and $/€20 casinos with great promotions. So, saddle up and ride through the wild for incredible wins. Heehah and strike it rich at SmokeAce Casino.