Gamlinked March 2024

By Thadeus Geodfrey

Gamlinked is your exclusive and authoritative top online casino news roundup covering the latest developments in the online gambling world. As a seasoned gambler, industry professional, or new player, we at Minimum Deposit Casinos (MDC) make it our duty to keep you informed.

It’s not just the news roundup – we provide a meticulous and comprehensive overview of the best online casino industry news, trends, and updates from around the globe. From regulatory changes to technological advancements, new game releases, and market insights, we leave no stone unturned to ensure you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the industry.

Here’s what’s been happening in the industry: First, a recent survey says DraftKings and Bet365 lead the pack. Find out why the UK Gambling Commission is the best place to work in 2024. Also, we’ll inform you how AI will likely improve player safety online and why US White Hat Gaming fans have a reason to smile. For these and more from all over the world, tag along.

We Discovered Who The Fairest Sportsbooks In The US And UK Are

Bet365 and DraftKings have been recognized as the fairest in the industry. This acknowledgement comes from the inaugural FairPlay Fair Betting Survey conducted between January 5 and February 6 in the US and the UK.

In the US market, where 78% of bettors consider fair treatment a crucial factor when choosing a betting operator, DraftKings and FanDuel were comfortably clear of competition. These two leading brands, each controlling a market share of approximately 32% and 35% respectively, have earned the trust of the majority of top online casino players.

DraftKings took the crown with 37% support as the fairest in the industry, with FanDuel at 33%. Both DraftKings and FanDuel scored well on two key considerations of a commitment to Fair Play in the US market – ‘Best odds’ and ‘Easy withdrawals’.

Similarly, in the UK where there was a relatively higher number of respondents, Bet365 stood out. It commanded the lead with 40% support, with its closest opponents, SkyBet and Paddy Power scoring merely 16% and 12% respectively. The top three factors for a ‘Fair Experience’ that separated Bet365 and competition are ‘Best odds’, ‘Best Odds Guaranteed’, and ‘Easy to use site/app’.

In the same report, only 16% of US respondents experienced unfair treatment. The survey quoted the country’s market maturity and higher customer service standards as the possible reasons.

However, a whooping 54% of UK respondents claim to have been treated unfairly by operators at one point. And 50% of those who experienced unfairness would stop using a bookmaker because of it, obviously a call for UK operators to up their game.

Stuart Simms, CEO of FPSM, expressed optimism over the findings, highlighting the potential for the UK market to enhance its customer service practices despite its maturity.

The survey aimed to understand the importance of fairness in selecting an online sportsbook operator. It gathered insights from approximately 500 respondents of legal betting age in both the UK and in the US. Fairness and fair treatment is important in shaping the perceptions and behaviours of bettors in both markets, the survey underscored.

So, are fairness and trustworthiness significant considerations for you when choosing a sports betting operator, and what other factors do you prioritize??

The UKGC was voted as one of the best places to work in the UK

The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) continues to earn a reputation but not only for responsible gambling. The UKGC have again been voted as one of the best places to work in the UK, as revealed by “Great Place to Work®.

According to the Great Place report, what particularly stood out was UKGC’s inclusive work environment and accommodative approach to new work practices. Also, the gambling regulator’s efforts in promoting “Dignity at work” and teamwork contributed significantly to its dominance.

UKGC ranked 87th in the large company category. It stands out for its trust, fairness, respect, and camaraderie, which all point towards an employee-oriented culture.

While acknowledging the achievement, its CEO, Andrew Rhodes, was thankful for the recognition and emphasized the team’s dedication to maintaining and enhancing workplace standards.

The regulator first made it onto the list a year ago and seems not to relent. Rhodes maintains that his team will continue to focus on its mission, including recent initiatives such as a pilot scheme for affordability checks, a contentious topic within the gaming industry.

Great Place To Work® is a worldwide leader in evaluating and improving workplace culture. It was founded 30 years ago by Robert Levering and Milton Moskowitz, who were business journalists and believed that creating great employee experiences benefits individuals, companies, and society.

In this survey, UKGC employees shared their thoughts on various aspects, such as whether their leaders are accessible and communicate honestly and clearly. Other factors that played a part in the ratings include their opinion on workplace respect, dignity, support, appreciation, and opportunities to contribute. The employees also shared their views on whether they believe their company is fair regarding pay, profits, promotions, recognition, favouritism and opportunities. They also had to tell whether they are proud of their work – feel their work is meaningful and make a difference.

This Trust Index™ survey provides valuable insights into the workplace culture and helps businesses improve their work environment. It predicts employee satisfaction, retention, agility, and overall business success.

Do you think UKGC’s recognition as one of Britain’s best workplaces is an endorsement of the country’s gambling industry?!

Sun International Remains A Massive Player In South Africa

Investing in a gambling firm is not a bad idea. Sun International made R12.1 billion (US$0.6 billion) in the financial year ended December 31, 2023, a 7% increase from the previous year. Here is the kicker: though the company has massive investments in the hotel industry, its casino wing contributed to 77% of its money, thanks to robust performance of its betting subsidiaries.

Before deductions, Sun City’s earnings rose 3% to US$0.18 billion, with the adjusted headline earnings growing by 4.6% to R1.1 billion (US$0.059 billion), and earnings per share increased by 5.9%. With its flagships SunBet and Sun City doing well, the company’s gambling income has increased by 3.3%.

Sun International’s profit before tax and other deductions partly improved. Even though diesel costs went up, it managed its money better. The funds from resorts and hotels increased by 17.4%, especially in Sun City. Maybe the decision to integrate renewable energy wasn’t a bad one.

The company continues to expand. It is buying Peermont Holdings Proprietary Limited, a leading hospitality and entertainment group which includes the flagship Emperors Palace Resort. Sun is to acquire all of the issued ordinary shares and any claims on loan accounts against Peermont Group to make even more money from land-based and online gambling.

Its shareholders will receive 203 cent dividends per share. And with most of its money coming from gambling when the South African gambling industry continues to grow, things could only improve. Most recent stats puts SA gambling revenue at R55 billion (US$2.94 billion)

As a gambler, maybe more revenue Sun International means lucrative online casino bonuses in South Africa.

Kungaslottet Entered The Swedish Casino Market With Its New Pay’ N Play Casino

Videoslots Group has launched Kungaslottet, a pure Pay N Play new online casino targeting the Swedish market. The casino has an enticing Swedish theme: the majestic King Eric and his favourite slots. Licensed by the Swedish Gambling Authority (SGA), Kungaslottet.se promises to redefine the pay-to-play casino experience. A

No lengthy registration process, Swedes. Pay N Play Casinos, a low deposit casino, offers a solution for no-account casino sites. You skip the sign-up process and start playing right away with fast deposits, no KYC procedure, and instant withdrawals. Videoslots Group says it’s 100% safe, and mobile friendly as it has a responsive interface design that works on all devices.

Kungaslottet.se runs on Videoslots’ gaming platform, known for its extensive game collection and popular features, which makes it reliable and secure. Its game variety guarantees unparalleled player satisfaction, all seamlessly integrated with the convenience of pay-n-play.

And just to announce its arrival, all new players will receive a one-of-a-kind welcome bonus of 20,000kr (USD190) and 150 free spins with a minimal deposit of just 100kr (USD10)

The Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Videoslots did not hold back his excitement and unwavering confidence in the success of Kungaslottet.se.

“Kungaslottet.se will capture the hearts of Swedish players,” he stated in media reports. “With our exceptional product lineup, irresistible welcome offer, and pay-and-play convenience, we are poised to set new standards in the Swedish market.”

Estrelabet teams up with 3 Oaks Gaming in Brazil

3 Oaks Gaming has partnered with EstrelaBet, a leading bookmaker and casino in Brazil, to expand the games available to Brazilian gamblers.

This collaboration will see this online casino host a comprehensive portfolio of 3 Oak Gaming titles, guaranteeing players an extended immersive experience.

3 Oaks Gaming is an iGaming distributor that offers premium solutions with high-quality art, secure operations, and engaging promotions tailored to players’ preferences. Their games have engaging math balancing that integrate unique in-game bonus mechanics with distinct graphical style. Some standout titles from the distributor include Sun of Egypt 4, 3 Egypt Chests—Hold and Win, and Coin UP—Hot Fire 3×3.

On the other hand, EstrelaBet is one of Brazil’s top rated online casinos and Minimum bet sportsbooks. It is a renowned betting platform and sponsors significant sports clubs, including Vasco’s basketball and futsal teams, and América-FC.

Sebastian Damian, Managing Director of 3 Oaks Gaming, said that partnering with EstrelaBet was a significant milestone in their international growth efforts and aligned well with their strategic objectives.

It’s a brilliant move for 3 Oaks Gaming, considering that Statista projects the Brazilian online gambling industry to generate USD1.95bn in revenues this year, with the online casino market reaching a market volume of USD1.09bn.

Artificial Intelligence Looks To Enhance Player Safety Online

If you thought speed, efficiency and improved access are the main standout features of Artificial Intelligence (AI), then here is a surprise for you; now AI can help you with responsible gambling and controlling your betting habits, thanks to Mindway AI and Interwetten strategic partnership.

Mindway AI recently announced a strategic partnership with Interwetten, a trusted and prominent online gambling operator in Europe. The renowned leader in providing responsible gambling solutions, says this collaboration aims to enhance player protection and responsible gaming efforts significantly.

Interwetten, a sports betting, live betting, and casino games provider founded in 1990, is committed to ensuring its customers a safe and enjoyable gaming environment. By incorporating Mindway AI’s cutting-edge technology into its platform, the operator can quickly identify, intervene in, and support at-risk players.

The company, which together with in 1997 Intertops are the pioneers of online sports betting, will now use Mindway AI-driven solutions. Supplemented by human expertise and neuroscientific insights, AI’s GameScanner solution will help the provider monitor its customers. With advanced analytics and reporting, operators can quickly spot gambling behaviour with potential problem gambling traits.

Interwetten sees this partnership as a proactive step towards setting new industry standards for responsible gaming. It aims to elevate the standards for player protection in the online gaming industry. And the partnership is a collective effort to underline the significance of artificial intelligence and human intervention in responsible gaming.

So, AI isn’t here only for bad reasons! Finally, Behavioral Analysis, Personalized Interventions, Predictive Modeling, Player Profiling, Fraud Detection, and Machine Continuous Learning will allow many other platforms to refine their responsible gambling strategies over time and stay ahead of emerging challenges. For us, it’s a wait-and-see to see if it works.

White Hat Gaming Brings iGaming to All 7 Legal US States

White Hat Gaming has announced its plans enter the US sports betting market. 

At the SBC Summit North America conference, company executives emphasized their aggressive approach and expressed confidence in their PAM platform’s success in the US market. They also highlighted the significance of their travelling wallet solution, which streamlines the player experience across different states and gaming verticals.

In the same vein, the iGaming platform provider has partnered with Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma to provide its PAM platform solution for the US markets. This platform and deal includes the provider’s proprietary cashier, multiple RGS integrations, managed services, and Traveling Wallet™. Choctaw Nation will be able to offer a world-class gaming experience across multiple states. The platform solution has been recognized as Platform Provider of the Year at the American Gambling Awards by Gambling.com.

White Hat Gaming plans to launch its White Hat Studios platform in every regulated iGaming state. Currently, iGaming is only legal in seven states across the US: New Jersey, Delaware, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Michigan, which has already emerged as the country’s leading online gaming market.

It has already launched in Rhode Island through a deal with Bally’s. Through partnerships with American gambling platforms like BetMGM, FanDuel, DraftKings and Caesars, White Hat contents are already available in West Virginia, New Jersey, Michigan, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Delaware.

The game provider’s entry in Rhode Island will help it continue its upward trajectory in the US market. That’s according to Andy Whitworth, White Hat Studios CEO. He believes they have had a good reception and hundreds of thousands of US players enjoy their games already.

According to Bally’s President, Craig Eaton, White Hat Studios is the most prominent provider in North America for their dynamic, exciting slots and most consistent top-performers in the market. When you say that, titles such as Jackpot Royale, The Goonies and Ted Cashlock,all come to mind.

Already White Hat Studios also has a partnership with Rush Street Interactive, launching BetRivers in Delaware, the sixth entry into a US iGaming state.

With a strong pipeline of announcements and aggressive sales strategies, White Hat Gaming anticipates significant growth and market presence in the coming year.

SuperSportBet Offers Even More in South Africa

SuperSportBet, a new minimum bet sportsbook and online casino in the South African market, is boosting its offerings by partnering with Kiron Interactive, a renowned virtual sports and numbers games provider.

Through this collaboration, SuperSportBet’s customers will gain access to a wide array of virtual sports titles. Kiron’s portfolio includes live sport events, virtual sports, football, horse racing, motor racing, and jump racing, and more. Its award-winning virtual sports fixtures have familiar betting markets, with both pre-play and in-play wagering options. What’s more, players can place multiple bets on a variety of these fixtures modeled after real sports contests.

This symbiotic relationship strengthens Kiron’s position in the South African market and underscores SuperSportBet’s commitment to delivering authentic and trusted sports betting experiences. Though Sportsbook launched on January 5, 2024, it’s leveraging its parent company brand, a household name in African sports broadcasting, to penetrate the market.

Steven Spartinos, Kiron Co-CEO, expresses excitement over the partnership, highlighting SuperSport’s reputation in African sports broadcasting as a testament to the realism of their games.

On his part, Marco Coetzee, Interim General Manager at SuperSportBet, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in their betting product and the quality Kiron’s virtual sports offer.

The collaboration aligns with SuperSportBet’s goal of providing authoritative and trusted sports betting experiences across Africa, significantly enriching their sportsbook offerings and enhancing player enjoyment.

More options with Bet365 in Bulgaria

What a comeback for Bet365? Just a few months after reclaiming its license in Bulgaria, the most trusted UK minimum bet Sportsbook has signed a strategic partnership deal with EGT Digital. But what does that mean for Bulgarians? Let’s break it down.

The gaming platform will integrate EGT Digital’s game aggregator into its platform, making a range of exciting titles available to players in this growing market. Bet365’s portfolio already includes providers such as Amusnet, CT Interactive, Playson, Wazdan, 7mojos, and 7777 gaming in Bulgaria.

Earlier, as the government pushed for heavier regulation, the Commission on Gambling (SCG) put Bet365 on the online casinos blacklist soon after withdrawing its license. We are yet to discover the reason behind that decision, though, because neither Bet365 nor the SCG disclosed it. The matter ended in the Sofia Administrative Court ruled, which ruled in favour of the operator, with the regulator complying and issuing a new license.

A Bet365 spokesperson has lauded their partnership with EGT Digital, emphasizing its enrichment of their gaming product.

On his part, Tsvetomira Drumeva, head of sales at EGT Digital, echoed those sentiments, expressing excitement about contributing to Bet365’s success in Bulgaria.

The collaboration is in line with EGT Digital’s standing as a leading casino software developer and its commitment to providing high-quality gaming content.

It’s obvious, Bet365 has grown bigger than the UK market! It no longer wants the local crown, it wants the regional honours, and perhaps the world title. Re-entering the Bulgarian market, and this deal signifies its dedication to expanding its presence in regulated markets while ensuring responsible gambling practices.

CandyCrush Meets Slots With Pragmatic Play and Sugar Rush 1000

Pragmatic Play on March 18, 2024 unveiled Sugar Rush 1000, the latest addition to its renowned slot portfolio, following the success of Gates of Olympus 1000 and Starlight Princess 1000.

Sugar Rush 1000 offers an enhanced version of the classic candy-themed slot, featuring a 7×7 reel setup, tumbling feature, and cluster pays mechanism. What sets Sugar Rush 1000 apart is the potential of multiplier spots, reaching up to 1,024x, and a thrilling free spins bonus round triggered by scatters.

During free spins, sticky multipliers boost the chances of landing massive wins, with a staggering maximum payout of 25,000 times the bet. The reels are of candies and jelly bears of assorted flavours, which win you cash whenever five or more of the same sweet symbols align horizontally or vertically on the reels.

Tumble mechanics remove the symbols and refill them by a cascade of new sweets, and this continues as long as you land winning combinations on each spin. There is also the boosting multiplier feature, borrowed from its original.

Irina Cornides, COO at Pragmatic Play, expressed excitement about elevating the beloved Sugar Rush series, promising players an even sweeter gaming experience.

The original Sugar Rush game, released in June 2022, was an instant hit, still our favourite. It won multiple industry awards, among them Online Slot of the Year and Game of the Year in London at the Global Gaming Awards and EGR Operator Awards respectively.

The original Sugar Rush game, released in June 2022, was an instant hit, still our favourite. It won multiple industry awards, among them Online Slot of the Year and Game of the Year in London at the Global Gaming Awards and EGR Operator Awards respectively.But we best know Pragmatic Play for its prolific outputs, like Sweet Bonanza and Gates of Olympus, releasing up to eight new slot titles monthly alongside live casino and bingo games, all accessible through unified API.

For me though, my sugar is just enough with its Sweet Bonanza™ – it’s such a 6×5 top tumbling video slot. Every time I hit candies, it tumbles, and I get more sweetness. Can anything be really sweeter than that? Maybe you should try out Sugar Rush 1000 and tell us.

Gambling Mogul Making Waves in South African Politics

Benjamin Disraeli, 1st Earl of Beaconsfield, a UK Conservative politician and writer, twice serving as the Prime Minister, once said that “There is no gambling like politics. Nothing in which the power of circumstance is more evident.” But who knows better about this quote than the Durban-born billionaire Martin Moshal.

A notably secretive figure, Martin Moshal a has emerged as one of the primary donors to South African political parties. His contributions are only second to The Oppenheimers, Africa’s third-richest family, according to the data declared by the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC).

Together, Martin Moshal and Oppenheimer made contributions totalling R149 Million (USD7.88 million) to political parties between April 2021 and December 2023. That’s a third of the R437 Million (USD23.11 million) of the total political funding.

Despite his residence in Sydney, Australia, Moshal has shown interest in shaping the country’s political landscape. His substantial backing spans various parties, including the Democratic Alliance (DA), ActionSA, and Build One SA.

But is he gambling? We know much of his wealth stems from the gambling technology sector, and his recent revelation as a shareholder in the UK’s Betway gambling group further highlights his involvement in the industry.

The big question, though, is whether Moshal’s philanthropic endeavours, a belief in driving positive change, addressing governance challenges, and promoting reform in South Africa are all about his business interests.

Dutch Gambling Regulator Prepares to Ban Betting Sponsorships

Dutch gambling regulator asks operators for sponsorship details ahead of the ban (focusgn.com)

Online casinos operating in the Netherlands are required to provide details of commercial sponsorship deals ahead of a national ban. The country’s gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has requested that operators disclose these details by March 29, 2024.

The country began to phase out online gambling sponsorship in sports in July, 2023. Other forms of gambling ads had already been banned. No gambling ads are on TV, radio, or via billboards. Even online and digital advertising which still remains legal, are very restricted.

Sponsorship deals were left to run out to allow sports clubs to find alternative sources of sponsorship to replace the gambling industry. The Dutch soccer governing body, the KNVB, decried the move as it said this would cost the country’s soccer up to €70 million (USD$76.8 million) in revenue. Affected clubs include top-tier Eredivisie sides with significant commercial partners, like Ajax, which has a deal with Unibet.

Most European countries have banned gambling brands on shirts. Netherlands follow in the footsteps of England, which will note allow gambling brands shirt deals from the 2026/27 season. Spain and Italy have also forced clubs to drop gambling companies in recent years.

The KSA seeks information on the nature of these sponsorships, including contract duration, types of sponsorships (sports, media, events), and measures the sponsor has taken to prevent targeting vulnerable groups.

The KSA’s request underscores the government’s efforts to regulate gambling advertising and protect vulnerable groups despite ongoing sponsorship allowances until the specified deadlines. But will the ban serve its intended purpose?

Australia Blocks Eight Gambling Sites

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has intensified its efforts against illegal online gambling. It has issued blocking orders for eight additional websites deemed violating the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.

Among the sites listed for blocking are 50 Crowns, Lucky7even, Rockwin, Spicyjackpots, Bitdreams, Mr Pacho, Casino Infinity, and Zota Bet. But what did they do?

ACMA’s actions target various breaches of the Act, including offering banned interactive gambling services to Australian players and operating without a proper license.

In a statement, ACMA told consumers of these sites that even while the service of these sites may look legitimate, they don’t have important consumer protections.

“This means our laws can’t help if something goes wrong,” the authority said. “Australians can check if a wagering service is licensed to operate in Australia on our register.”

While explaining the blocking request, the statement said the Authority can invoke such a move if the operator provides prohibited interactive gambling services in Australia.

While ACMA lacks the authority to block sites directly, it can request Australian internet service providers (ISPs).

Since November 2019, ACMA has successfully blocked 945 illegal gambling and affiliate websites, with 221 illicit services withdrawing from the Australian market. This latest round of blocking orders follows ACMA’s previous actions in which it singled out 12 other websites for blocking, including Playzilla, Wazamba, Zet Casino, and Slots Palace.

ACMA had previously targeted four prominent online gambling brands in 2023 for breaching in-play betting rules. It had accused the operators, including Ladbrokes, Neds, Bet365, and Sportsbet, of using Fast/Quick codes to facilitate in-play betting on sports. Eventually, all the four complied with regulations, avoiding further penalties.

ACMA’s ongoing efforts underscore its commitment to enforcing gambling regulations and protecting Australian consumers from illegal and unlicensed online gambling activities.

The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA) prohibits interactive gambling services. It only makes an exception for regulated interactive gambling services, such as lottery, gaming, wagering and betting with a license. So, online casinos, online slot machines, and services that allow in-play online sports betting remain banned.

And you thought the US has the most confusing gambling laws.

Going forward

From the fairest operators to intriguing collaborations, it’s evident that the gambling industry’s heartbeat thrives on fairness, trust, innovation, and responsible gaming practices. Yet amidst the glitz and glamour, challenges also loom, as seen in the regulatory shifts in countries like the Netherlands and Australia. The industry’s growth is always on a delicate balance, teetering between offering variety and ensuring consumer protection.

Here at Gamlinked, we remain steadfast in championing integrity, innovation, and accountability going forward.

Gamlinked February 2024

By Ginevra Alessandrello

2024 has only just begun and the online gambling industry has already been a whirlwind of activity!

We have also been quite busy at Minimum Deposit Casinos (MDC) on a content project that sets the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating year ahead in the online gambling realm.

We present Gamlinked – a roundup of all our industry news for the month summarized into one piece.

In this first edition, you can find out about the hype of activity at the Superbowl, how White Hat joined forces with Rush Street to create BetRivers; the glitz and glam at Global Gaming Awards EMEA 2024, and a behind-the-scenes look at LeBron James’s partnership with Draft Kings, and much more.

The end of ICE London as we know it

The largest-ever edition of ICE London 2024 took place at the Exhibition Centre in London on 5 February with the theme “more connections, more inspiration”. ICE is a global industry event for online operators, software developers, affiliates, gaming experts, and media partners who display their latest innovations, games, and other developments in the online gambling industry.

ICE London 2024 saw 811 exhibitors with tens of thousands of international visitors. During the three-day gathering, it featured breakfast meet-ups and multiple networking sessions among the women leaders and discussions centres around how to include more women inside the talent pool to ensure a fair industry.

Safer gambling was promoted heavily throughout the event at the London Consumer Protection Zone, an area within ICE London dedicated to promoting consumer protection and responsible gambling practices within the industry.

Several new products were unveiled at the event including ICE VOX – the online gambling industry’s newest knowledge exchange and educational brand that replaces conferences. ICE VOX workshops included safer gaming initiatives, emerging new markets, and innovative lotteries.

Another big topic at the event was street gaming. This is where the high street hub, in partnership with the gambling business group, brought local and national legislators together to discuss the role street gaming has on society.

ICE London 2024 also showcased BetConstruct’s portfolio of offerings like iGaming, Crypto and Web3 solutions. Their latest technology endeavours to include their brand new Multi-Wallet solution, which allows managing various Crypto and fiat wallets from one account to deliver a personalised experience.

ICE was sponsored by over 40 software developers and payment providers including Pragmatic Play, Playtech, Merkur Gaming, Amazon Web Services, PaySafe, Jeton and Pavilion Payments.

Beyond the sponsors, the event was also attended by sports and casino gaming operators, who could test out the best and latest slots and casino games in the dedicated gaming area.

All in all the event was fruitful as experts and professionals got to discuss ideas, debate challenges in the industry and exchange thoughts on the future of the industry.

And next year promises to be just as good, if not better at ICE takes place in Barcelona.

White Hat Studios continues making moves in the US

White Hat Studios and Rush Street Interactive have partnered to bring the BetRivers app to online gambling players in Delaware.

This exciting event marks the sixth US launch for White Hat and has introduced new slots like Almighty Buffalo Megaways and Jackpot Royale through BetRivers to US players.

White Hat CEO Andy Whitworth said the company was thrilled to go live in Delaware as it means that they are now live in all regulated US iGaming States just 20 months later, which is a fantastic achievement.

Rush Street Interactive offers games and software titles for real-money online casinos in selected US states, as well as Ontario, Canada, Colombia, and Mexico.

White Hat Gaming was founded in 2012 and provides a comprehensive solution for launching and operating online casinos. Their service includes software development, payment providers, games, support, marketing, and regulatory compliance. It specialises in letting casinos customise their site to meet specific preferences for their players.

Rush Street was founded in 2012 in the USA, and today, it has several leading online gambling brands under its care, including BetRivers. With top-rated online casino games, live dealer games, and sports betting, BetRiver’s software is easy to use, with intuitive game menus customisable by game type, popularity, software provider, and more. Slots are provided by NetEnt, Red Tiger, IGT, and many more, who all have deals with independent testing labs like eCogra to guarantee fair and safe games.

The Taylor Swift effect on the Superbowl according to Bet365

The 2024 Super Bowl was the most watched of all time as Taylor Swift was front and centre as the Kansas City Chiefs met the San Francisco 49ers. The Super Bowl was the cherry on top of a week that saw Swift clean up at the Grammy Awards and announce the release of her next album. Bet365, a prominent betting company, noticed that Swift’s halftime performance at the Super Bowl led to fluctuations in betting activity. Bet365 said in media reports that many of the bets revolved around Chiefs tight-end and Swift’s partner, Travis Kelce.

Taylor Swift has indeed boosted American football, and now a new breed of Swifties is born! On September 24 last year, Taylor Swift attended her first Kansas City Chiefs game, which resulted in a surge of unexpected viewers among her fans, known as Swifties, a fond term for American football buffs.

According to Bet365, the Taylor Swift effect is a phenomenon where her presence causes a massive surge in ticket sales and increased social media activity. The Taylor Swift effect comes with its own Midas Touch.

Swift’s massive fan base has helped her build a pseudo-influencer market – a Pied Piper effect that has helped gain new fans in the National Football League, especially women and girls. The Taylor Swift Effect has led to a 20 percent increase in sponsorships, and the NFL’s surge in female viewership cuts across different age demographics. NFL viewership of teenage girls increased by 53 percent, and among the 18-24 age demographic, there has been a 24% increase.

The Global Gaming Awards show was a hit

Global Gaming Awards EMEA 2024, the most prestigious Awards in the gaming industry, was back in London for the seventh year. This event recognises and rewards the industry’s most passionate and ambitious people who have contributed to a better and more responsible gambling arena across the previous 12 months.

Powered by Gambling Insider, the leading B2B gaming publication with the respect of industry heavyweights, and adjudicated by KPMG in the Crown Dependencies, the Global Gaming Awards EMEA was a complete success. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners and shortlisted entrants who were chosen by 50 industry leaders, with KPMG in the Crown Dependencies independently monitoring the voting process to ensure fairness and transparency.

Online Sports Betting Operator of the Year went to Bet365; Casino of the Year went to The Hippodrome Casino; Online Casino of the Year was LeoVegas; Online Casino Supplier of the Year was Pragmatic Play, Online Slot of the Year went to Money Train 4 by Relax Gaming; Platform Provider of the Year was SOFTSWISS; Payment Solution of the Year was Trustly, and Breakthrough Company of the Year was SPRIBE.

King James joins the Draftkings team

In more exciting new, Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James will be joining the Draftkings team in a multi-year agreement. The superstar is currently in his 21st NBA season and 6th season with the Los Angeles Lakers. As a talent ambassador for DraftKings, LeBron represents the brand’s image, values, and products through in-person appearances, adverts, and social media.

This is not the only partnership King James is involved with, as he recently signed an ongoing contract with Fanatics Collectibles trading cards. Previously, James was with Upper Deck trading cards but switched to Fanatics to create more special trading cards like the one off of LeBron in his St. Vincent-St. Mary’s high school uniform and Bronny, his son, in his USC jersey.

Known as the greatest basketball player the world has ever seen, LeBron James was born in Akron, Ohio, on December 30, 1984. While attending St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, he played on the basketball team and gained international attention. He left school in 2003, entered the NBA Draft, and soon after joined the Cleveland Cavaliers until 2010.

At that time, he announced that he would be moving to South Beach to join the Miami Heat, and then in 2014, LeBron returned to the Cleveland Cavaliers. In 2016, the Cleveland Cavaliers won against the Golden State Warriors in a historic comeback, and later in 2018, LeBron moved to the Los Angeles Lakers. He has received many prestigious awards including four NBA Most Valuable Player Awards.

DraftKings’s partnership with King James is one of many collaborations made by this giant-sized sports betting operator. DraftKings has partnered with NBA teams and talents, including Michael Jordan, special advisor to the board of directors at DraftKings. It has also collaborated with football player David Beckham and musician Snoop Dogg. Recently, DraftKings partnered with NASCAR to bring sports betting to the soon-to-be-legalised North Carolina region in the USA.

The DSWV fights for safer Gambling in Germany

From the Roman Empire, we transition to the contemporary issues involving the German Sports Betting Association (DSWV) and its efforts to promote safer gambling practices.

DSWV is advocating for changes to the existing safer gambling regulations to reduce illegal gambling activity in the black community. Specifically, they refer to the illegal and potentially harmful bonus offers in the gambling industry that are targeting communities with black market operations.

Since the fourth amendment in the State Treaty on Gambling in Germany in 2021 was implemented, and this sector has had massive growth. This is causing a decline in the number of people using legal gambling sites in Germany and have been lured to black market operators.

To counteract illegal online gambling, the DSWV held a press conference to spread the message about the importance of legalised gambling, which generates valuable tax revenue for Germany.

The figures speak for themselves. Citing data, the DSWV said that Germany posted $/€/€8.3 billion in wagers for 2023, which marked a 5.4% decrease year-over-year.

Previously, the DSWV released a study that showed approximately half of the online gambling activities in Germany take place via illegal gambling operators.

Regarding advertising, the DSWV said that legal gambling operators should be allowed to advertise their services and expressed their opposition to a ban on advertising. They backed that up by saying that instead of a flourishing legal market, the money flows into the coffers of the black market providers.

Brazil’s online Gambling regulation aims to set a new standard

The Brazilians are finalising its gambling regulation as part of a broader governmental initiative to enhance control and bring legal oversight to the gambling industry. Backed by legislation – Law No. 14,790 of 2023, which President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva enacted to regulate fixed odds sports betting and online casino gambling in Brazil, the secretariat will actively work to establish responsible gambling policies, anti-money laundering initiatives, and the protection of vulnerable players and minors.

To regulate its burgeoning gambling industry, the Secretariat for Prizes and Betting (SPA) has been introduced to ensure the gambling realm of Brazil is at its cleanest and free from any crime.

The Ministry of Finance will host eight secretariats within the framework, with SPA as a pivotal player, who will all work towards three key sub-divisions – Authorisation, Monitoring and Inspection, and Sanctioning Action.

The work of creating a safe and sustainable market will be carried out by 38 professionals.

SPA has aligned with the Ministry of Sport to monitor result manipulation in sporting events and oversee transfers of athletes, clubs, and sports management bodies. These new rules have been implemented to prevent tarnishing the country’s sports reputation and increase fan engagement.

Brazil has taken a proactive step with SPA, and the journey ahead is set towards more transparency at casinos and sportsbooks, responsible gambling practices, and a secure and regulated environment for operators and bettors. With SPA at the helm, Brazil is set to become a leader in future.

Hollywoodbets looks to reinvigorate the South African Casino Market

We leave the world of secure online gambling and enter South Africa, where Hollywoodbets Casino looks to reinvigorate the local market.

Along with software developer Playtech, Hollywoodbets plans to expand the two companies’ positions within the market by introducing Playtech’s incredible selection of slots and casino games for both desktop and iOS and Android mobiles for sheer convenience.

Hollywoodbets is known for being a forward thinker, evidenced by its partnership with Light & Wonder in 2023, a game developer that owns smaller developers such as Bally, WMS, Barcrest, and NYX Gaming.

When we consider that Light & Wonder started manufacturing pinball slots in 1943, they must know something about what it takes to please an online casino gamer. Light & Wonder has consistently created exciting game titles, such as the 88 Fortunes slot game.

If Lights & Wonder has done so much to elevate Hollywoodbets South Africas online casino experience, its red carpet moment must surely be introducing Playtech slots for all its users to enjoy. With Playtech’s trademark of cutting-edge technology, advanced graphics, and engaging gameplay, Hollywoodbets clients are in for a real treat! It won’t hurt that Playtech is known for its massive progressive jackpot slots like Age of the Gods and Jackpot Giant, where potential payouts can win you millions with one spin.

Head of Product at Hollywoodbets, Wayde Dorkin, said in an interview that it aims to further diversify its offering by including additional content from Playtech in the coming months.

Flutter leaves the Irish Stock Exchange

The luck of the Irish is not at play for some folk. This as news of Flutter Entertainment’s departure from the Dublin stock exchange. The company delisted its shares on November 9 and started trading on the New York Stock Exchange on January 29, 2024. This bold move towards expansion and growth ensures that Flutter Entertainment will have total exposure on the New York Stock Exchange.

Subject to all their official paperwork being finalised with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, they’ll be ready to start trading on the NYSE. The last step in the process is to move their shares from Euroclear Bank to Depository Trust Company, which was agreed to by all the shareholders.

Flutter Entertainment plc used to be Paddy Power Betfair plc, a sports betting company that dates back to 1988 when three Irish bookmakers merged their betting shops to form Paddy Power. In 2000, they launched their own website and entered the online betting market.

In 2010, Paddy Power merged with Betfair, creating Paddy Power Betfair, and today, the company owns many successful online casinos and sportsbooks, including Paddy Power, Betfair, and FanDuel. Flutter Entertainment is based in Dublin, Ireland, and has operations in the UK, USA, and other key markets.

In 2019, Paddy Power Betfair rebranded as Flutter Entertainment to reflect its broader portfolio, which includes Paddy Power, Betfair, and other leading brands like FanDuel, Sportsbet, Adjarabet, and TVG.

Panama finally gets access to Aviator crash games

Sleepy-eyed online casino enthusiasts in Panama woke up on 23 January 2024, to find out that online casino Crash Gambling games like Aviator were suddenly available in Panama. Aviator was a popular video game before it became available at Crypto casinos, and its appeal was the uber-simple gameplay and potential for massive wins. Aviator is a social multiplayer game with one simple rule: cash out before the plane on the screen flies away.

It sounds like a simple game, maybe a slow game, but we assure you that this online casino game requires nerves of steel! On your screen, you’ll see an increasing curve that can crash at anytime, and while the tension builds, a Multiplier starts growing. Players must strategically time their cash out before the lucky plane flies away.

Crash game Aviator was created by Spribe, who launched the game online in 2019. No one could have predicted the game’s global popularity, and in their first ten months, Spribe saw a staggering increase in sales of 450%. Since its founding in the mid-twenties, Spribe has gained global popularity for its unique approach to providing players and gamification operators with unique, immersive, socially orientated game products.

Spribe offers a wide range of games, from classic card games to unique and original entertainment that has won millions of fans around the world. All the Spribe games ensure fairness through Provably Fair technology, a cryptographic innovation that guarantees the complete fairness of game results.

Every result of a round, be it the flight of an aeroplane or the distribution of cards in poker, is generated on Spribe’s servers and remains completely transparent. This ensures that no one can interfere with the outcome of the round.

One of Spribe’s biggest hits is Aviator, the perfect game for those looking for fun online. Aviator is played the same way all crash games are played, but the payouts can reach a staggering 97% Return to Player rate and maximum wins of $/€/€10,000. Aviator also features an in-game chat feature to allow gamblers to connect.

Aviator’s simplistic user interface and a strong emphasis on social interaction have contributed significantly to its success. Players can interact in the chat function, compete against each other and watch as their scores rise up the real-time leaderboard. Plus, there’s always the chance to collect free games in the chat box. Now that the game has been evaluated and certified by BMM Test Labs to comply with the gaming control board, Spribe is ready to take off in Panama.

Ben Ingham takes the reigns of LeoVegas UK

In UK online gambling news, Swedish-based LeoVegas Group announced it had appointed Ben Ingham as the UK’s Country Manager. He will manage the many brands under LeoVegas in the country, including 21.co.uk, Pink Casino, and the BetMGM UK brand.

Ingham worked at PokerStars for three years and then five years at Sky Betting & Gaming.

LeoVegas Group recently purchased Push Gaming, a famous software studio known for creating highly engaging slots for online casinos. This was a strategic move by LeoVegas to expand its portfolio and enhance its online casino experience. In 2021, it secured a five-year license to supply online slots and casino games and sports betting to legal gambling players in the Netherlands, following the country’s implementation of new regulations for online gambling.

This is significant for LeoVegas, as it allows them to enter a new market legally while continuing to grow its customer base and revenue streams.

Play’nGO’s launched Legion Gold Unleashed

Play’n GO has released Legion Gold Unleashed, so take heart, Centurion. The battle is upon us! From 29 February 2024, raise your sword and shield to Play’n GO’s new Roman Empire-themed slots with Legion Gold Unleashed.

This exciting sequel to Legion Gold will get your adrenaline pumping as it re-joins the Roman Army on the frontier. Legion Gold Unleashed sits alongside other titles that showcase the mythological and historical battles of old, such as Clash of Camelot and Gates of Troy. It offers a step up in entertainment possibilities, starting from the camera that pans down from a blazing hot sky to the blazing hot sandy scenes of Ancient Rome.

Early in 2023, Play’n GO released their Ancient Roman slot game, Legion Gold, but besides being the inspiration for Detroit Red Wings Winged Reelers, a branded ice hockey game based on a real-life team, it wasn’t a hit. However, Legion Gold Unleashed is everything but since the Roman Empire extended to both sides of the Mediterranean Sea, players would appear to be somewhere in North Africa.

With a 1000x Multiplier that can reach up to 3000 times your bet, a 5×3 reel layout along with bonus features to increase the size of the payload, an army of Wilds, Scatters, and a fabled Free Spins round, Legion Gold Unleashed can be played from $/€/€0.05 to $/€/€100 per round.

Play’n GO has kept a leash on the math model, presenting a medium volatility setting and a Return to Player rate of 96.25%. Players can also try the demo of this slot to test its features and game mechanics.

AI aims to change the face of sports betting

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionised the sports betting industry by providing many excellent benefits to bettors and bookies. Using AI-powered algorithms, it enables more accurate predictions by identifying patterns in betting data that were previously impossible to discover. AI-driven analytics lets bookies offer unique in-game betting opportunities and simulation tools to increase user engagement.

Specific AI algorithms are being tailored to understand the intricacies of eSports, with predictions for games like League of Legends and Dota 2. At the forefront of this, companies like unikrn Esports offer AI-driven betting advice for eSports, which opens up new avenues for gamblers.

However, the most significant contribution of AI in sports gambling is in ensuring fair play and detecting and preventing fraudulent activities and match-fixing.

Sportsradar’s Fraud Detection System (FDS) uses AI to analyse betting patterns and flag irregular activities, and AI also plays a massive role in risk management and responsible gambling. Responsible Gambling tools like PlayScan use AI to analyse gambling behaviour and identify risky patterns, which helps keep gambling as a form of entertainment rather than a problem.

AI is also revolutionising Odds-making, a critical component of sports betting. Traditional methods of setting odds are complemented by AI algorithms that can process more variables and data points. This turns the industry towards a more efficient and dynamic betting market, benefiting bookmakers and punters.

In many jurisdictions globally, online sports betting activities are subject to legal regulations intended to protect the integrity of sports and punters participating in betting activities. However, one of the concerns related to algorithms and AI in online sports betting is their potential to facilitate unfair practices in cases where specialised algorithms influence betting odds.

This could lead to market manipulations or an uneven playing field for sports bettors. These issues are addressed by existing regulations that place accountability in AI-generated betting platforms. For example, some jurisdictions require transparent disclosure of the algorithms used and regular audits of the AI systems in place.