Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - Oklahoma lawmakers have voted to overturn an earlier veto by Gov. Kevin Stitt concerning Senate Bill 1589, thereby formally implementing a prohibition on “online casino games,” including sweepstakes casinos. Senate Overrides Governor’s Veto on SB1589 While SB 1589 addresses various aspects of gambling, sweepstakes casinos are its central focus. These platforms utilize dual-currency systems to offer casino-style games under the guise of promotional contests. On the morning of May 14, the Senate voted 34–10 to override the governor’s objections, with the House quickly following suit with a 68–19 vote. Governor Stitt vetoed the bill last week, asserting that it “criminalizes everyday apps people use for fun.” Furthermore, he criticized the bill’s “overbroad approach,” which, in his view, created uncertainty for businesses operating in good faith and discouraged innovation and investment within the state. However, the legislature strongly rejected this position, with supporters arguing the bill was essential to safeguard Oklahoma’s existing gaming system and uphold commitments to tribal gaming partners. The legislation aims to further control sweepstakes and other similar forms of gambling that employ a dual-currency system. Oklahoma law now explicitly categorizes these operations as unauthorized gambling activities, eliminating previously existing definitional loopholes that allowed them to operate. Significance of This Development Critics of sweepstakes gaming platforms have long contended that these operators exploit legal ambiguities to avoid state taxes and bypass consumer protection regulations. Nevertheless, the overriding of the veto represents a notable victory for tribal nations and established gaming stakeholders. They have consistently maintained that sweepstakes platforms operate in a regulatory grey zone that distorts competition and weakens the safeguards embedded in Oklahoma’s gaming compacts. With the Secretary of State now moving the legislation into implementation, enforcement is anticipated to commence shortly. The Oklahoma Gaming Compliance Unit is expected to work to identify and shut down active sweepstakes operations across the state. The issue surrounding the status of sweepstakes casinos, and who and how they should be regulated, has been vehemently discussed in other states throughout 2026 so far. In accepting SB1589, Oklahoma actually aligns with other states that are further expanding their control over sweepstakes. For example, back in March, Indiana Governor Mike Braun signed House Bill 1052 into law, which effectively banned any games based on the dual-currency model in that state. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - A new report by Gaming Compliance International (GCI) indicates that unregulated online gambling generated an estimated $5.9 trillion in global bets during 2025. This amount exceeds the GDP of every country worldwide except the United States and China. Prediction Markets Are a Major Contributor to This Figure The estimate covers the total betting volume flowing through unlicensed sports betting platforms, online casinos, poker sites, crypto gambling services, and lottery portals across the globe. GCI now divides the online gaming industry into three segments instead of two: regulated, unregulated, and a third category labeled “unacknowledged.” This group includes social casinos, sweepstakes platforms, pseudo-financial products, skins trading, TikTok-based contests, and most notably, prediction markets. This new category includes products that replicate the core mechanics of gambling—such as a stake, an element of chance, and a potential reward—without being formally classified as gambling under current regulations. GCI groups prediction markets into this category, even though there remains significant debate over whether their offered contracts count as gambling or another type of activity. Prediction markets, which now hold an institutional valuation of $9 billion following Wall Street firm Intercontinental Exchange’s $2 billion acquisition of Polymarket in October, occupy a distinct space in GCI’s framework. They are neither considered regulated gambling nor unregulated offshore gambling. Instead, within the U.S., they are treated as financial products overseen by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), while outside the country, they are categorized as unregulated gambling. GCI Leaders React to the Report’s Findings Ismail Vali, president of GCI, stated that the market has essentially fragmented at every level, with prediction markets serving as a prime example of this trend. In an earlier appearance on the On The Margin podcast, Vali outlined the evolution of prediction platforms: they emerged from 2010s fintech apps initially focused on assets like Bitcoin and stock price movements. As these platforms shifted toward user-generated content, their scope expanded to allow users to wager on virtually any topic. Meanwhile, GCI CEO Matt Holt delivered a stark assessment of the report’s findings, noting that the scale of the unregulated online gambling industry could no longer be ignored. He pointed out that with an estimated $5.9 trillion in betting volume, the sector has become one of the world’s largest economic systems while operating largely outside regulatory oversight. Contextualizing the Figures To illustrate, let’s look at U.S. prediction markets and this year’s Super Bowl. According to Kalshi, a global leader in prediction markets, it recorded $1.2 billion in trading activity during the event. That’s roughly one-third of the $3.1 billion in Super Bowl-related prediction market trading volume estimated by GCI. The numbers become even more staggering when viewed globally. For instance, the U.S.’s nominal GDP in 2025 is estimated at roughly $30 trillion, while China’s economy stands at $19 trillion. No other national economy exceeds $5 trillion. Against this backdrop, the unregulated online gambling market represents the third-largest economic flow in the world. Finally, GCI argues that the regulated market accounts for just 22% of global gross gaming revenue, leaving licensed operators with a minority share compared to the unregulated sector, which controls the remaining 78%. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The Florida Lottery has released a report highlighting its top winners for January 2026. This action complies with Florida Statutes, which permit the lottery to disclose the names of winners and their city of residence after a 90-day period. During January, three individuals claimed seven-figure prizes. Boca Raton Man Wins $2 Million According to the Florida Lottery, one of the largest winners from January was Walkens Talabert, 56, of Boca Raton. He won a $2 million prize through the lottery’s Double Diamond Cashword scratch-off game and visited the lottery headquarters on January 5 to collect his winnings. Talabert chose to receive the one-time lump-sum payment of $1,189,600 before taxes. The winning ticket was purchased at a Publix located at 19595 S. State Road 7 in Boca Raton. For reference, the $10 Double Diamond Cashword game initially offered four top prizes of $2 million. So far, only one of these grand prizes has been claimed by Talabert. Pahokee Player Claims Another $2 Million Prize Additionally, the Florida Lottery announced that Lekisha Epps, 33, of Pahokee, received a $2 million top prize from the 100X The Cash scratch-off game. Epps traveled to the lottery HQ in Tallahassee on January 20 and elected to take the one-time lump sum of $1,111,700 instead of the annuity option. The winning ticket was sold at 379 Bacom Point Road in Pahokee. As per the official website of the Florida Lottery, two versions of the $10 100X The Cash game remain available for purchase. Originally, one version included ten top prizes of $2 million and the other featured four; currently, each version retains just one remaining top prize. Miami Lottery Enthusiast Claims $2 Million The final seven-figure winner of January was Alejandro Morales from Miami. He secured a $2 million top prize from the branded Monopoly Secret Vault scratch-off game. Morales visited the lottery’s Miami District Office on January 20 to claim his prize. As did the other January winners, he opted for the lump-sum payout, receiving $1,153,865.00. His winning ticket was bought at Winn Dixie, located at 11241 S.W. 40th Street in Miami. The Monopoly Secret Vault game is available in four versions priced at $2, $5, $10, and $20 per ticket. Morales played the $10 version, which originally had four top prizes. At present, all of those grand prizes have already been claimed. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - This Thursday, 22 defendants involved in a large-scale illegal gambling case in northwest Indiana entered not guilty pleas. According to prosecutors, the defendants were part of a well-organized sports betting ring that operated from local businesses and had significant reach across the United States. The indictment names two establishments, Gino’s Steakhouse and Paragon Restaurant, as the central locations of this operation. The Ring Allegedly Allowed Bettors to Use Credit This case, known as Operation Porterhouse Parlay, centers on an organization that prosecutors claim conducted wagers through a combination of offshore-style websites, disposable phones, and encrypted communications. Unlike legitimate sportsbooks, the operation allegedly permitted customers to place bets on credit, allowing them to continue wagering even after their funds had been depleted. Federal filings identify James Gerodemos and Dean Gialamas as the alleged leaders of the group. Prosecutors allege the pair managed a highly sophisticated operation, with each responsible for tasks such as setting odds, maintaining records, or collecting debts. The operation reportedly ran from early 2021 through spring 2023. According to federal agents, the operation functioned similarly to other underground gambling networks that lure bettors by offering credit. Once customers began accumulating unpaid debts, prosecutors say threats allegedly followed. The indictment includes accusations of intimidation related to unpaid gambling debts, resulting in extortion charges. Prosecutors Have Not Ruled Out Additional Charges This operation was also notable for its wide-reaching impact. Arrests connected to the case have occurred in cities including Chicago, New York, and Boston. Investigations have also included locations in Florida, Arizona, California, and Puerto Rico. Prosecutors allege the group used a digital betting platform to manage wagers nationwide while keeping its leadership based in northwest Indiana. Records indicate that Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez was a frequent customer at Gino’s Steakhouse, where he hosted campaign events and spent tens of thousands of dollars. However, authorities emphasized that Martinez has not been charged with any wrongdoing. Still, the situation raises questions about whether public officials were aware of the gambling activities. For now, attention remains focused on the 22 defendants and the charges they face. The indictment includes counts of illegal gambling, conspiracy, and extortion. If proven, these offenses could result in substantial prison sentences. With all defendants pleading not guilty, the case moves into its next phase, and prosecutors have not ruled out additional charges. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The Mega Millions jackpot has exceeded the $250 million threshold after no winner was announced for the top prize in last Tuesday’s drawing. Players will have another opportunity to win the top prize when Friday’s drawing takes place. Multiple Players Claimed Five-Figure Prizes In the Tuesday drawing, participants competed for a $232 million jackpot, with a cash option of $103.8 million. However, the grand prize remained unclaimed during that round. For reference, the winning white numbers from the May 12 drawing were 17, 32, 35, 40, and 47. The gold Mega Ball drawn was 17. Although no player matched all six numbers to claim the top prize, several came close by matching all but one number. None matched all five white numbers along with the Mega Ball to secure a seven-figure payout. Still, multiple players matched four white numbers plus the gold Mega Ball, earning various prize amounts based on their selected multipliers. Prize winners included one player who received $20,000 (with a 2x multiplier), two players each claiming $30,000 (3x multiplier), one who won $40,000 (4x multiplier), and another who secured $50,000 (5x multiplier). As no one claimed the jackpot, the prize rolled over and is now estimated at $251 million, with a cash value of $112.3 million. The upcoming drawing is scheduled for this Friday at 11 p.m. Eastern Time. Two Mega Millions Jackpots and Five Powerball Jackpots Awarded This Year So far in 2026, only two Mega Millions jackpots have been awarded. Both occurred in early March: first, a player in Illinois matched all winning numbers to win a total of $536 million, and later claimed the prize. Just two drawings later, a player in Ohio won a $60 million jackpot, which was claimed by the Happy Trails Trust. Meanwhile, Powerball has awarded five jackpots this year. Two of those wins occurred within just a few days of each other. One drawing resulted in a $143 million prize split between two winners, while the subsequent draw saw another $20 million prize shared by two additional players. This earlier $143 million drawing also led to dozens of Match 5 prize claims, as an unexpected winning combination deviated from typical player patterns. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The Sphere in Las Vegas has firmly established itself as a modern marvel. Though the project has sparked numerous controversies over its environmental impact, it has still become a massive success and a popular tourist attraction. As a result, multiple proposals have been put forward to replicate this success by building more spheres across the globe. Now, the location of the second such landmark has been confirmed. DCT Confirms Site for the Second Sphere The Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) has just announced Yas Island as the site for the twin of the Las Vegas Sphere. The department specified that the exact location of the second Sphere will be between the existing Yas Mall and SeaWorld. According to the DCT, the Yas Island Sphere should be ready by the end of 2029, unless construction is delayed by disruptions. The Abu Dhabi version of the Sphere will have a seat capacity similar to that of the Sin City one and will use the same LED technology on its exterior. Regardless, this announcement comes after a long period of speculation about where the second Sphere would be located. Additionally, Yas Island is an ideal choice for the project, as it is already a major tourism hub. Currently, the artificial island is home to several theme parks, such as Ferrari World, which houses Formula Rossa—one of the fastest rollercoasters in the world. Other attractions include Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, CLYMB Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, and Disneyland Abu Dhabi. The announced site will place the new Sphere in a key area of the island, ensuring its visibility. Plans for a Second Sphere Have Been Circulating for Some Time Abu Dhabi was confirmed as the home of the next Sphere last year, when Sphere Entertainment signed an agreement with the DCT. Prior to that, Sphere Entertainment had also considered other potential locations, including London—though Mayor Sadiq Khan rejected those plans. In Abu Dhabi, Sphere Entertainment secured a 25-year agreement that allows the DCT to build and operate a Sphere venue in the UAE. The DCT is also permitted to leverage Sphere’s entertainment IP, technology, and content to truly replicate the success of the Las Vegas Sphere. After the initial term, the deal includes options for 10-year extensions. In the meantime, Nashville has emerged as a potential location for a smaller Sphere. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Peter & Sons has launched a new game in which players join forces with a professor who has abandoned ethics in favor of chaos to conduct perilous chemical experiments. Tango of Chaos is set against the backdrop of the Industrial Revolution, challenging players to push scientific boundaries at great personal risk. Tango of Chaos Metrics Rows: 6 Reels: 6 Paylines: 46,656 RTP: 96% Volatility: High Min/max bet: 0.10/100 Max win: 10.000x Where Experiments Lose Control Peter & Sons’ latest slot game draws inspiration from Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, putting players in the role of a scientist who dares to cross moral boundaries in pursuit of groundbreaking discoveries. Although this dangerous path threatens their very humanity, the rewards are substantial—players can win up to 10,000x their bet. The game features cascading chain reactions, where winning symbols vanish from the grid, making way for new symbols to fall and continue the experiment. This mechanic allows multiple winning combinations to form on a single spin, offering repeated chances to claim prizes. Collecting Atom symbols boosts the multiplier for subsequent spins. Meanwhile, transformation syringes have the power to convert groups of losing symbols into valuable alternatives, potentially turning losses into gains. Stability Is Only Temporary The true intensity of the doctor’s experiment unfolds when three rat scatter symbols appear during a cascade, triggering the game’s free spins round. In this climactic phase, players can achieve maximum rewards by landing up to 10,000x their initial wager. During the free spins mode, multipliers steadily increase with every spin and remain active until the round concludes—no resets occur. The round is enriched with additional mechanics such as respins and enhanced multipliers, ensuring each spin delivers significant potential. Coin symbols may also randomly activate the bonus round, where players navigate a volatile 5×5 chamber collecting multiplier symbols. The doctor stands ready to assist by deploying atom symbols that shatter surrounding barriers, unlocking higher multiplier values and boosting overall payouts. Players in applicable regions can expedite gameplay by purchasing free spins or directly accessing the bonus feature. Additionally, the Golden Bet option increases the likelihood of triggering the coveted free spins round. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Britain’s Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has released data highlighting the success of the latest edition of Safer Gambling Week. The 2025 iteration of the initiative achieved what the BGC described as “record-breaking engagement.” Hundreds of Thousands of Deposit Limits Were Set Safer Gambling Week 2025, which took place from November 17 to 23, saw more individuals than ever before engaging with responsible gambling tools offered within the regulated sector. Analysis of last year’s campaign revealed that Safer Gambling Week resulted in a remarkable 281,000 deposit limits being set by 153,960 unique account holders, reflecting an impressive 41% increase compared to the previous year. The BGC noted that this marked the fourth consecutive year in which the number of distinct account holders using at least one safer gambling tool during the campaign period had risen. Furthermore, the volume of safer gambling messages sent to customers throughout Safer Gambling Week reached a new high of 10.95 million, representing a 75% increase year-on-year. These messages were delivered through various channels, including pop-ups, direct messages, and emails. In addition, operators increased their investment in safer gambling advertising by 68% during the campaign. Online ad impressions reached 182 million, up 27% year-on-year. Moreover, the 2025 campaign garnered support from a record number of senior cross-party Members of Parliament and Peers. Key supporters included Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross, Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Nigel Huddleston MP, and Shadow Gambling Minister Louie French MP, among others. Hurst Emphasized That Only Legal Gaming Can Deliver Such Results BGC CEO Grainne Hurst praised the double-digit growth in interactions with responsible gambling tools, deposit limits, and safer gambling messaging. She stated that these figures once again demonstrated the positive impact of Safer Gambling Week. These record-breaking figures underline the industry’s ongoing commitment to raising standards and ensuring the millions of people who enjoy a regular flutter do so in a safe and responsible environment. Grainne Hurst, CEO, BGC Hurst stressed that reliable safer gambling tools are accessible only within the legal gaming sector. She also highlighted the persistent threat posed by the black market and urged customers to choose the legal alternative. The BGC reiterated that approximately 22.5 million adults engage in gambling each month, making safer gambling a critical priority. However, safeguarding vulnerable individuals remains challenging due to the expansion of the illegal gambling market. In other news, the UK recently launched its largest independent research center dedicated to studying gambling-related harms. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - An old pair of pants turned into a life-changing discovery for a New Jersey resident who found a multi-million-dollar lottery ticket in an unlikely place. $5.9M Lottery Prize in Back Pocket of Forgotten Pants A winning Pick-6 ticket valued at $5.9 million had been sitting unnoticed for nearly a year after being purchased in May 2025 at a gas station in Roseland. The ticket holder did not realize the significance of the ticket until late April, when reminders were made public about the expiration deadline for an unclaimed jackpot, as reported by NJ.com. Lottery officials said the ticket was bought at the store where the man was a regular customer. When he learned that only a handful of regular customers played that particular game, he started to think he might be the missing winner. Encouraged by store staff, he chose to do a thorough search at home. He rummaged through drawers, surfaces, and other common hiding places, but there was no luck, and by all accounts, this took him a while. Then his eyes went to his closet. He searched the pockets of the clothes, one by one, until he found the long-lost ticket, crumpled up in a pair of pants he had not worn in months. The ticket had all six numbers from the May 22, 2025, drawing, winning the jackpot prize, officials said. He lost no time in taking it to lottery headquarters in mid-May 2026, a little over a week before it would have expired and been invalid. Lottery Urges Players to Check Tickets After Close Call Lottery officials said it is rare for prizes that large to go unclaimed, but smaller wins are often left unclaimed. Tickets can easily get lost in everyday items such as wallets, purses, or clothes, they said, and players are encouraged to double-check regularly. There is a steep chance of hitting the Pick-6 jackpot – it is more than 9 million to 1. And with those long odds in mind, the case is also a reminder that even a lost lottery ticket can be worth a fortune. Players are encouraged to check their tickets using the official tools, including scanning options at retail locations and the digital tools offered by the lottery. Had the ticket not been located in time, the prize money would have gone back into the lottery’s funding pool. Yet, a potential lost fortune turned into a last-minute windfall thanks to a diligent search and a touch of persistence. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - White Earth Nation has advanced plans to establish a substantial casino and hospitality complex near Moorhead, releasing a summary of findings that detail the economic opportunities and potential challenges associated with the project. Moorhead Area Casino Project Projects Hundreds of Jobs and $176M Investment The development, which would be situated on land acquired by the tribe in late 2024, is positioned near Interstate 94 and Highway 336. Public records indicate the purchase price was just under $4 million for more than 280 acres. The site is intended to serve as a comprehensive entertainment destination, featuring gaming, lodging, and event facilities, according to WZFG. The study, conducted by a consulting firm with expertise in tribal gaming ventures, estimates the total construction investment at $176.8 million. The proposal includes a casino floor equipped with hundreds of slot-style machines and a limited number of table games. The complex will also encompass a hotel containing approximately 200 rooms, a spacious ballroom, meeting spaces, dining venues, bars, and retail outlets. The plan additionally features parking facilities and an RV park. During the construction phase, the project is anticipated to create numerous jobs, with hourly wages projected to be above average within the industry. Once operational, the venue could employ around 600 full-time staff members and over 100 part-time workers. Full-time positions offering annual salaries exceeding $50,000 are expected to contribute significantly to local income growth. Casino Project Forecasts Over 1M Visitors and Strong Economic Gains Annual visitor numbers are projected to exceed one million, with most guests expected to originate from outside Clay County. This anticipated influx is forecast to benefit not only the casino but also adjacent businesses, particularly those in hospitality and retail sectors. Analysts estimate the project could generate an economic impact surpassing $175 million for the county and nearly $245 million statewide. In terms of public finance, the initiative is expected to produce more than $25 million annually in tax revenues for various governmental entities. Nevertheless, the study acknowledges additional costs, including an estimated $1.4 million increase in demand for public services such as law enforcement and emergency response. Environmental concerns have been raised, notably regarding the preservation of a regional aquifer that supplies water to nearby communities. Water resource protection remains a key priority for tribal leadership and will be addressed as planning progresses. These projections reflect optimistic expectations, but the project remains uncertain. It still requires federal approval to place the land into trust status and finalize a gaming compact with the state. Until these conditions are fulfilled, a construction timeline cannot be determined. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - A wrongful death lawsuit filed in a Las Vegas court has reignited scrutiny over the 2024 death of Larissa Garcia. Her fatal injuries, sustained inside a Palms hotel room, have prompted serious allegations against both the casino resort where she was found and the local escort agency that employed her. Fight Over Money The 30-year-old mother of two was discovered unresponsive in a room at the Palms on June 12, 2024. She had been meeting a client who later claimed she had suffered an overdose. That assertion was swiftly dismissed by medical personnel after she was transported to Spring Valley Hospital, where doctors detected no traces of drugs or alcohol in her system. Instead, they documented multiple injuries consistent with a violent assault and severe brain trauma. Garcia remained in critical condition for several days before being pronounced dead on June 21, 2024. Authorities identified the client she had been with using hotel records and text messages from her phone. Surveillance footage cited in court filings reportedly shows the pair meeting in the hotel lobby and proceeding upstairs together. The same footage allegedly captures the man exiting the hotel alone approximately one hour later. Investigators state that no one else entered the room prior to the arrival of first responders. They Didn’t Take Reasonable Measures to Prevent This Court documents summarize statements indicating the man engaged in a dispute over payment, physically assaulted Garcia, and fled the scene, later reporting an overdose. He now faces serious criminal charges, though current court records show he has been deemed not competent to stand trial. The civil suit, initiated in early May 2026, names the Palms Casino Resort and an escort agency operator as defendants. It contends that both entities neglected to implement reasonable measures that could have mitigated the risk of harm. The complaint alleges the resort disregarded evident warning signs—including potential disturbances in the room and suspicious guest activity—and failed to act despite opportunities to intervene, citing inadequate security protocols. The lawsuit further accuses the escort agency of endangering Garcia by employing a payment structure that incentivized hazardous encounters while retaining a substantial share of her income in a manner that may have breached state law. Garcia’s family is now pursuing damages for her death, her prior pain and suffering, and the emotional and financial toll on her children. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - A group of 17 tourists visiting Las Vegas endured a harrowing elevator ordeal at the Rio after the car suddenly dropped and became stranded between floors, leaving them trapped for nearly an hour. Pregnant Woman Among Those Trapped The incident, which occurred earlier this month, gained widespread attention when a series of viral videos shared by passenger Melissa Elcio circulated online and were later featured by Inside Edition. According to Elcio, the elevator appeared to operate normally until it abruptly shifted and dropped a short distance, which she estimated at just a couple of feet. Shortly afterward, the elevator halted just below the lobby level, preventing the doors from opening properly. Passengers reported spending a lengthy period in a confined space with poor ventilation. As time passed, conditions grew increasingly uncomfortable, especially as airflow became limited. Elcio, who is a nurse, noted that the group eventually had to partially open the door to improve air circulation. She also explained that the situation intensified due to the presence of a pregnant woman and another individual suffering from a panic attack inside the cabin. Some passengers activated the emergency alarm and made efforts to summon assistance during the wait. Tourists Claim Assistance Was Delayed Elcio stated that hotel staff initially informed them help was on the way but later revealed that emergency responders had not yet been contacted. Eventually, Las Vegas Fire and Rescue arrived and managed to open the doors. Since the elevator had stopped slightly beneath the floor level, firefighters assisted passengers in stepping up and exiting one by one. No injuries were reported, though passengers described the experience as frightening and poorly handled. Elcio confirmed they remained trapped for approximately 55 minutes. In response to inquiries from Casino.org, a publicity representative for Rio Las Vegas said the elevator service company was notified immediately and estimated a response time of under 30 minutes. The statement also indicated that the fire department reached the scene about 23 minutes after the elevator came to a stop and that the situation was “resolved swiftly.” The hotel also pointed out that the elevator system has a weight limit of 3,500 pounds, suggesting that exceeding this capacity could lead to mechanical failures. It emphasized that guest safety remains a top priority. The Rio, an off-Strip property currently undergoing extensive renovations under new ownership, has faced ongoing scrutiny in recent years over maintenance and operational concerns. In February 2026, a tragic murder-suicide took place at the same property, resulting in two family members being killed. In December 2021, a man was fatally stabbed in a hotel room at the Rio. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Gambling.com Group has become the latest company to implement workforce reductions as it undergoes strategic restructuring and increases its use of artificial intelligence (AI), according to employees and multiple sources. Redundancies Are Happening, as Company Still Absorbs Impact of New Challenges Rumors surfaced ahead of the company’s Q1 earnings call on Thursday, May 14. The update validated skepticism that had first emerged in March of this year. On LinkedIn—a social media platform largely used by white-collar professionals—several employees shared that they were affected by the changes, which impacted up to 25% of the workforce, a figure later confirmed by the company itself. Those affected included Gambling.com Group’s remote workforce, along with personnel from the SEO and finance departments. Estimates suggest approximately 150 employees have now been made redundant, according to some staff members. The company emphasized its overall outlook during the earnings call, reporting first-quarter revenue of $40.4 million, unchanged compared to the same period last year, while marketing services revenue declined by 5% amid ongoing regulatory and SEO challenges. The company’s EBITDA margin dropped from 39% in Q1 last year to 22% in the most recent quarter. These declines were primarily driven by regulatory challenges in the United Kingdom and Finland, where outcomes have been more severe than anticipated. Revenue in the United Kingdom fell by 30%, drawing particular attention from analysts. Gambling.com Group acknowledged seeing some encouraging signs and a potential path toward improved operational performance but chose not to include these developments in its official guidance. The reduction in workforce is not occurring in isolation; the company estimates it will achieve savings of up to $13 million through headcount cuts. Meanwhile, Gambling.com Group’s sports data services grew by 13% year-over-year and now account for 28% of total revenue. The company has also revised its full-year 2026 guidance, projecting revenue between $165 million and $170 million, with adjusted EBITDA expected to range from $45 million to $50 million. Gambling.com Group CFO Elias Mark stated that a more rapid transition away from SEO channels is underway, coinciding with lowered revenue expectations. This restructuring reflects a broader adjustment of the company’s cost structure in response to evolving market conditions. The ongoing SEO-related challenges remain central to the company’s near-term outlook. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Gaming Corps, a globally respected provider of innovative online casino games, has broadened its presence in Spain by partnering with Casino777.es, a leading local operator. The collaboration will see the studio supply the Spanish brand with an expanded selection of its titles, including the recently launched Instant Blitz, a new scratchcard-style game and the inaugural release in the Super Scratch series. Strengthening Its Spanish Presence Through the Casino777.es Partnership Alexander Stoeckl, Market Lead at Casino777.es, expressed enthusiasm about enhancing the company’s portfolio with this fresh and innovative offering: “This dual launch underscores the strategic direction we are advancing as a brand. Our goal is to be recognized as a benchmark in online gaming within Spain, which means delivering a platform that blends quality, variety, and strong entertainment value.” In addition, the studio is also providing its proven franchise titles, such as 3 Pigs of Olympus, Gates of Hellfire, and Hellfire Spins, further enriching the operator’s comprehensive library developed over more than ten years since its launch in 2015. The announcement was well received by Gaming Corps. Graham Greensmith, Chief Commercial Officer of the studio, emphasized that Spain remains one of their key markets and that the company is committed to expanding locally through partnerships with established and trusted operators. Having operated successfully in Spain for a decade, Casino777.es aligns perfectly with these objectives. “Casino777.es has a clear vision for where it wants to grow as a brand, and this partnership reflects that ambition strongly. We are delighted to be collaborating with a team dedicated to creating a premium destination for players,” added Greensmith. Gaming Corps Drives Global Growth Through Additional Operator Collaborations Meanwhile, Gaming Corps has also been expanding its reach with other operators. Most recently, the studio partnered with MrQ to increase its visibility in the United Kingdom market. Equally significant for the brand has been another strategic content partnership with bet365, where the two companies have aligned their operations to jointly serve regulated markets worldwide. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - BGaming and CasinoCanada have joined forces on a fresh initiative, which will see the pair launch a series of free social slot tournaments designed to boost player engagement further. CasinoCanada and BGaming Partner to Deliver an Enhanced Social Slots Experience The affiliate brand has enlisted BGaming to launch what’s described as a groundbreaking partnership between a supplier and a company in the sector, with the studio’s slots already standing out among CasinoCanada’s players and followers. Games available for the social slot tournaments include Aztec Magic Bonanza, Bonanza Billion, and Elvis Frog. CasinoCanada views choosing BGaming as its slots partner as a significant move, marking a shift away from traditional providers. Players will have access to casino bonus rewards, merchandise prizes, recurring competitions, and rotating gaming content, giving them the freedom to explore more opportunities in the future. Commenting on these opportunities, BGaming CMO Kate Puteiko said: “Players and the community have always been the beating heart of everything we do here at BGaming. Online play no longer has to be a solitary activity, and tournaments like this are an excellent way to connect players and enhance everyone’s experience.” CasinoCanada also embraced the chance to collaborate further with BGaming. Head of PR Eugene Ravdin added: “The affiliate industry is moving beyond static review pages and traditional bonus listings. Community features, recurring engagement formats, and social competition are becoming increasingly important for long-term audience retention.” Meanwhile, BGaming has been spearheading its own initiatives, introducing several thematically rich and gameplay-clever titles over the past weeks. Among these is Ultras, a soccer-focused slot that shines a light on the darker aspects of soccer fandom. The studio also revisited ancient times with the release of Clash of Gods: Anubis vs Hades. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Okada Manila reported a 17% decline in first-quarter gaming revenue compared to the same period last year, as parent company Universal Entertainment Corp highlighted ongoing challenges in the Philippine casino market. Key Facts Okada Manila’s Q1 casino GGR fell 17.2% year-on-year to approximately PHP6.47 billion. VIP revenue dropped by 19% due to a lower win rate. Tiger Resort and PhilWeb have introduced the Okada Play online gaming platform. Okada Manila is now prioritizing its online gaming strategy. Universal Entertainment noted that rising travel costs—partly linked to the Middle East situation—have made it more difficult for certain guests to visit the resort in person, prompting a greater focus on expanding Philippine online gaming services. This announcement followed PhilWeb Corp’s confirmation of the launch of Okada Play in collaboration with Tiger Resort, Leisure and Entertainment Inc., a subsidiary of Universal Entertainment that operates Okada Manila. First Quarter Hit by VIP Weakness and Rising Costs In the first three months of 2026, Okada Manila generated casino GGR of nearly PHP6.47 billion (about $108.1 million), marking a 17.2% decrease from the previous year, although it increased by 9.1% compared to the fourth quarter of 2025.Universal Entertainment stated: “We recognise that the gaming market in Entertainment City, Manila, Philippines, remains in a period of adjustment,” “Partly due to the situation in the Middle East, the market as a whole continues to contract.” VIP revenue declined by 19% year-on-year to around PHP1.44 billion, with Universal Entertainment attributing the drop to a lower win rate. Mass-market table revenue fell 24.2% to PHP2.30 billion, while gaming machine revenue decreased 8.9% to PHP2.73 billion.Competitive pressures to attract mass-market players have also intensified, driving up customer acquisition costs, according to Universal Entertainment: “Against the backdrop of structural changes in the VIP market, fierce competition with rivals to acquire mass-market customers continues, driving up customer acquisition costs,” Despite these headwinds, the integrated resort segment remained profitable. Universal credited improved performance to lower fixed costs, reduced selling, general and administrative expenses, decreased depreciation following an asset revaluation in the prior fiscal year, and modifications to the Okada Manila loyalty programme. The company anticipates increased competition in Philippine gaming throughout 2026 and warned that the impact from the Middle East situation may extend beyond the second quarter. As a result, growth in online casino operations is expected to become a more critical growth avenue for Okada Manila this year. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The Lodge Card Club located in Round Rock, Texas, will resume operations on May 26 at 9 a.m., two months after a state raid shuttered the poker room. Good to Know Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission agents raided The Lodge Card Club in March. A Williamson County Grand Jury ultimately found insufficient evidence to file a criminal indictment. Poker operations will resume May 26, while Frank & Margie’s will open its doors May 16. The first poker event following the reopening will be a $50 no-limit hold’em tournament at 10:15 a.m. on May 26. Two additional low-buy-in events are planned for the same day, letting members quickly return to live poker as the World Series of Poker launches in Las Vegas. The club announced the news on Tuesday via Twitter/X, stating: “Welcome back home Lodge members.” Welcome back home Lodge members. The grand reopening is May 26th at 9am pic.twitter.com/YYLiMaPhgQ — Lodge Card Club (@LodgePokerClub) May 12, 2026 Round Rock Poker Room Set to Resume Operations The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission shut down The Lodge in March, citing money laundering and illegal gambling allegations. State authorities also froze assets connected to the club. This case shifted in April when a Williamson County Grand Jury declined to indict the property owners. Without a criminal indictment, The Lodge now plans to bring back staff, players, and regular poker games. The reopening will also assist players who still had chips at the club during the raid. Those players are expected to receive their payouts once operations restart. Several familiar aspects of the business will return as well. The “Poker at the Lodge” livestream, which has nearly 240,000 YouTube subscribers, is anticipated to resume after poker operations restart in Round Rock. Food service will look updated. Odds Bar & Bistro is being replaced by Frank & Margie’s, an Italian-American restaurant opening May 16, ahead of the poker room’s reopening. The company also operates a Lodge card club in San Antonio. This location was not raided and stayed open during the Round Rock shutdown. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Individuals affected by the AirBit Club crypto Ponzi scheme now have a potential avenue to recoup losses after the US Justice Department launched a compensation procedure linked to forfeited assets. Good to Know The DOJ indicates that over $400 million in forfeited assets may be used to reimburse qualifying victims. AirBit Club was promoted as a cryptocurrency mining and trading venture offering assured profits. RCB Fund Services will reach out to identified victims regarding petition submissions. The Justice Department stated that the United States has seized more than $400 million in assets tied to AirBit Club. These assets consist of real estate, US dollars, and cryptocurrency obtained from the scheme. AirBit Club operators presented the enterprise as a cryptocurrency mining and trading platform. Participants were assured of guaranteed returns, although prosecutors later characterized the operation as a Ponzi scheme. DOJ Opens AirBit Club Recovery Process The compensation initiative followed sentencing in 2023 of several individuals linked to AirBit Club. Among them were co-founders Pablo Renato Rodriguez and Gutemberg Dos Santos, promoters Cecilia Millan and Karina Chairez, and attorney Scott Hughes.“To date, the United States has forfeited over $400 million in assets that are now available to compensate eligible victims for their qualifying losses. Victims who have already shared their details with the FBI or U.S. Attorney’s Office will be contacted by the remission administrator, RCB Fund Services, LLC, (RCB) to submit a petition,” the DOJ stated. Those who previously supplied information to the FBI or the US Attorney’s Office are expected to be contacted by RCB Fund Services, which will manage petition processing through the remission procedure. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department Criminal Division remarked: “The defendants exploited the rising interest in virtual currency to advance the scheme and attract additional victims. The criminal convictions and substantial asset recoveries achieved by prosecutors and law enforcement partners have allowed the Department to initiate this meaningful victim compensation effort.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The United Kingdom has launched a new independent research centre dedicated to gambling-related harm, with levy funding allocated for evidence-building, prevention efforts, and policy-focused work. Key Details to Know The Gambling Harms Research UK Evidence Centre will receive £22.1 million in funding for the 2025-2026 period. UKRI will finance the centre using 20% of the statutory national Gambling Levy. The Universities of Glasgow, Sheffield, Swansea, and King’s College London will lead the centre’s work. The new Gambling Harms Research UK Evidence Centre launches after years of widespread concern over weak evidence, industry influence, and limited research capacity in gambling harm policy. A consortium from the Universities of Glasgow, Sheffield, Swansea, and King’s College London will operate the centre. DCMS announced the launch on Thursday, while UK Research and Innovation will deliver funding via a portion of the government-run statutory levy. Independent Evidence Is the Top Priority Funding from the levy gives the project full scale and capacity from day one. UKRI will use its 20% share of the Gambling Levy to support the centre, which equals £22.1 million for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Earlier in 2025, the levy also allocated £25.4 million to gambling harm prevention organizations.The centre will research gambling harm across a range of areas: public health, policy, sport, online gambling, video-game gambling, financial data, algorithms, and structural risk factors. It will also coordinate 19 Innovation Partnerships under the GHR-UK framework. Professor Heather Wardle, director of the centre and professor of gambling research and policy at the University of Glasgow, stated: “For far too long, gambling research has been under-resourced and overlooked. “New funding through the levy and UKRI marks a vital reset for the field, strengthening the quality and scale of gambling harms research and ensuring policy is driven by rigorous, independent evidence.”UKRI reports that harmful gambling costs the UK economy around £1.4 billion every year. It has also linked gambling harm to increased public health pressure, higher criminal justice costs, depression, and suicide. Independence stands as the core of the project. In April 2025, gambling harm researchers warned Parliament about past industry influence over research funding and priority-setting. Wardle also told the health and social care committee that earlier research often reflected research questions and viewpoints shaped by the gambling sector itself. Lived experience of harm will also guide the centre’s work. Martin Jones, a campaigner and charity worker who has experienced a gambling-related suicide in his family, will serve as the centre’s lived-experience lead. He said: “Research is not just an abstract intellectual exercise that exists in isolation. “It is, and should be, closely connected to the real gambling harms that affect real people. “We need to do far more to prevent these harms, and coordinating top-tier research will support this goal, especially as we explore more complex areas like suicide, algorithms, and financial data.”The centre is part of a broader UKRI Research Programme focused on gambling. That programme already includes 32 rapid evidence reviews, 19 Innovation Partnerships, and four UKRI policy fellows. UKRI also plans to allocate additional funding for topics such as the overlap between gambling and video gaming. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.