EvenBet Gaming Announced as Official Sponsor of SiGMA Poker Tour 2025

23 March 2025 – EvenBet Gaming, a leading force in online poker software and solutions, has secured a headline sponsorship deal for the highly anticipated SiGMA Poker Tour 2025, underscoring the company’s commitment to driving growth and innovation within the global poker community.

The sponsorship covers the two flagship events on the tour:

• Brazil: 9-14 April 2025

• Malta: 3-7 September 2025

Boosting Global Participation

In line with its mission to make poker more accessible, EvenBet Gaming is enabling its partner networks to host exclusive online satellite tournaments. These online qualifiers will offer players the chance to win coveted VIP packages, including entry to the SiGMA Poker Tour main events.

For the upcoming Brazilian leg, satellites will be run via EvenBet’s LatPoker network, covering multiple countries across South and Latin America, ensuring players from the region have the opportunity to join one of the largest poker events of the year.

Each VIP package features:

• Main event buy-in

• Five nights’ accommodation

• Meet & greet sessions with SiGMA ambassadors

• Access to exclusive entertainment experiences

Championing Diversity in Poker

Adding to the excitement, EvenBet Gaming has announced its sponsorship of Bianca Lira, one of Brazil’s most accomplished online poker professionals. With over a decade of success in the digital poker arena, Lira will represent EvenBet as both a competitor and ambassador throughout the tour.

Reflecting on the partnership, Dmitry Starostenkov, CEO at EvenBet Gaming, commented:

“Poker is one of the few iGaming verticals where online and live events are closely linked. As a leader in online poker technology, we’re proud to strengthen this connection by supporting major live tournaments and expanding digital access. Sponsoring the SiGMA Poker Tour 2025 is an exciting step toward enhancing the global poker landscape.”

Alexandra Voronetskaya, CMO at EvenBet Gaming, added:

“Women remain significantly underrepresented in professional poker, with male players making up over 90% of the field. Supporting talented players like Bianca Lira is part of our ongoing effort to promote diversity and inclusivity, both online and at live events.”

Bianca Lira also shared her enthusiasm:

“I’m thrilled to join forces with EvenBet Gaming for the SiGMA Poker Tour. It’s an incredible opportunity, and I’m looking forward to showcasing my skills and being part of a company that truly values the evolution of poker.”

With a guaranteed $250,000 prize pool for the main event, the 2025 SiGMA Poker Tour promises to be one of the year’s most thrilling poker highlights — blending the best of live and online experiences.

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BetMGM confirms first £250,000 Cheltenham drop winner

Following the conclusion of the 2025 Cheltenham Festival, BetMGM can confirm the first of two lucky £250,000 winners.

Steve from County Durham became the first winner of two BetMGM £250,000 giveaways during this year’s Cheltenham Festival, having placed a £2 qualifying bet with the online bookmaker.

UK Director at BetMGM, Sam Behar, said: “After a sensational four days at Cheltenham, which included Wednesday’s feature, the BetMGM Queen Mother Champion Chase, we’re delighted to announce the first winner of our Cheltenham £500,000 giveaway and to have given one BetMGM punter a sensational surprise!

“Steve has become our first winner and we’ve credited his account with an unbelievable £250,000. We think it’s fair to say he never dreamt of backing a winner as good as this one!”

BetMGM’s first £250,000 winner, Steve from County Durham, said: “It hasn’t sunk in, I’m still sitting here thinking ‘is this real?’. Until the money hits the bank, I’ll probably be saying the same.

“I’ve always had a dabble, I’m not a massive bettor but I do like a bit of a flutter. We always have a family day for the Grand National.

“I do football and horse racing betting via BetMGM and the first day [of Cheltenham] I was off work and I went to Sedgefield Racecourse with a friend of mine. They had the big screen up for watching the live races, so I had a flutter on BetMGM and I saw it [the £500,000 Giveaway] in the offers and thought, ‘why not, you never know!’, which is why it’s a massive surprise.

“I think some of it is going to go into my retirement fund – I’m planning for retirement and this is probably going into investments to put away for that – but some of it is probably going to go to paying off some car loans and doing a bit of house improvement.”

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EvenBet Gaming celebrates 20 years of innovation

EvenBet Gaming, a leading developer of online poker software and solutions, is celebrating its 20th anniversary after a record-breaking year, including a 27.9% increase in annual revenues and an 8.4% rise in profits for 2024.

EvenBet Gaming has been ever-present since the formative years of the iGaming industry. This enduring presence and adaptability have been exemplified throughout 2024, cementing its role as a key innovator in online poker.

The company’s impressive revenue growth can strongly be attributed to its commitment to global expansion, entering six African countries as well as Romania and the Philippines in 2024, while earning new certifications in the Netherlands, Georgia, and Slovenia.

Closer to home, the team reached another significant milestone, surpassing 200 employees, reflecting a 25% growth year-over-year.

During the past 12 months, EvenBet also launched over 40 new projects, bringing the total number of active partnerships powered by the provider’s software to more than 200 across 41 countries.

EvenBet has also remained steadfast in its dedication to responsible gaming and sustainability by integrating anti-fraud features and responsible gaming functionalities into its software. Last year, EvenBet organized two charity poker tournaments, raising funds for organizations combating human trafficking in Southeast Asia and supporting educational initiatives in Africa.

This commitment to excellence has earned the provider plenty of prestigious accolades, including the ICE Landmark Award 2025, which honors its long-term contributions to the online poker industry and Best Poker Provider at the EGR B2B Awards in 2024.

Since launching its first online poker software in 2005, the company has grown to become a global leader in the vertical, delivering cutting-edge solutions and achieving significant milestones along the way.

From rolling out the first mobile poker solution in 2012 to adopting cryptocurrency and blockchain technology in 2014, and creating the first international poker network in 2018, the company has consistently stayed ahead of industry trends.

With 2025 already off to a strong start, EvenBet Gaming is poised to build on its legacy as a trailblazer in the industry.

Dmitry Starostenkov, CEO at EvenBet Gaming, said: “Reaching 20 years is an incredible milestone for EvenBet Gaming, but what makes it truly special is celebrating it alongside a record-breaking year of success. This growth reflects the dedication of our team, the trust of our partners, and our relentless focus on innovation and customer satisfaction.

“We are proud of our journey, which has seen EvenBet flourish alongside the industry. We are excited to continue shaping the future of online poker, making a positive impact globally with groundbreaking solutions.”

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EvenBet Gaming to showcase poker solutions at ICE Barcelona 2025

EvenBet Gaming, a leading developer of online gaming software and solutions, is set to exhibit its portfolio of groundbreaking poker products at ICE Barcelona 2025 this month, marking the first ICE conference since its relocation from London.

The company will showcase its latest innovations that are transforming player engagement and operator profitability at the exhibition. Attendees will also have the opportunity to gain insights into the company’s ambitious plans for 2025, with it aiming to redefine the landscape of online poker.

During the conference, EvenBet Gaming will highlight its latest game-changing features released over the last year, including the Poker Clubs functionality and the In-Store feature. Poker Clubs delivers a seamless omnichannel poker experience, integrating private clubs and cash games for a personalized, community-driven environment that maximizes player engagement.

The In-Store feature enhances gameplay with in-game benefits accessible directly from the lobby and table. This feature includes flexible chip packages for play money games and tournaments, driving revenue growth for operators. Both of these innovations are designed to meet the demands of an evolving market, offering operators diverse revenue models and tools to optimize profitability.

EvenBet’s stand will feature a large team of technical specialists, ready to provide in-depth expertise and discuss the advanced solutions that sets the provider apart in the competitive iGaming space. Attendees can explore how partnering with EvenBet can elevate their business with future-ready poker solutions, from scalable platforms to customizable tools.

2025 marks a major milestone for EvenBet Gaming as the company celebrates 20 years of innovation. To commemorate, attendees can pick up exclusive anniversary merchandise and learn about the journey that has solidified the provider as a trusted partner for operators worldwide.

Visitors to Stand 2H26 will also have the chance to participate in daily prize draws, which include the chance to win an iPhone 16 Pro, Ray-Ban Meta Glasses, and AirPods 4.

Dmitry Starostenkov, CEO at EvenBet Gaming, said: “ICE Barcelona 2025 represents an incredible opportunity for us to demonstrate how EvenBet continues to innovate and shape the iGaming industry.

“We are excited to present our latest features and share our ambitious plans for 2025 with operators, partners, and gaming enthusiasts. This year’s event also marks an important milestone for us as we celebrate two decades of leadership and growth in this dynamic industry. We look forward to engaging with attendees and showcasing the cutting-edge solutions that define the future of online poker.”

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Endeavor announces management buyout of OpenBet and IMG ARENA

Endeavor Group Holdings, Inc., a global sports and entertainment company, today announced that it has agreed to sell OpenBet and IMG ARENA to OB Global Holdings LLC in a management buyout backed by Ariel Emanuel with participation from executives of OpenBet, including CEO Jordan Levin.

Levin said: “This management buyout allows us to continue executing our vision for increased market expansion and product innovation. Our group is extremely confident in OpenBet’s future considering the premium product offering, superior talent, and solid foundation we already have in place following a strong period of business growth.”

Under the terms of the transaction, OB Global Holdings will acquire the businesses for approximately $450 million, subject to certain adjustments, financed through a mix of cash and debt.

During the sign-to-close period and after closing, Endeavor will continue to market IMG ARENA for sale to a third-party purchaser.

OpenBet powers responsible betting and gaming entertainment for more than 200 market leading operators around the globe. Following close of the transaction, Levin will continue to lead the business as CEO.

The transaction is being pursued, and is a necessary step, for the closing of the proposed Endeavor take-private by Silver Lake. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including approvals required by applicable gaming regulatory authorities, and is conditioned on and expected to close immediately prior to the closing of the Endeavor take-private.

Oakvale Capital LLP and The Raine Group acted as financial advisors to Endeavor.

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BetMGM launched in Sweden

LeoVegas Group is thrilled to launch its international hero brand — BetMGM — in the Swedish market, following successful rollouts in the U.K. and the Netherlands. As the market’s largest privately owned operator, the group will further solidify its leading position with exclusive sports betting experiences, live casino tables from Las Vegas, and Sweden’s largest jackpot: MGM Jackpot.

Today, the international igaming brand BetMGM was launched by LeoVegas Group in the exciting Swedish market. The Vegas-themed brand was first launched outside of North America in 2023, with the United Kingdom being the first market, followed by the Dutch market in April 2024. BetMGM marks LeoVegas Group’s fourth brand in its home market portfolio, which also includes fan favorites LeoVegas, GoGoCasino, and the sports betting brand nya expekt.

New products such as streamed live casino from the floors of the legendary Bellagio Resort & Casino, and MGM Jackpot—Sweden’s largest jackpot—will bring a unique and far-from-”lagom” Vegas touch that will further cement the Group’s leading position in Sweden. Customers will be able to enjoy golden offers such as exclusive Las Vegas slots and competitive welcome offers across the casino, live casino, and sportsbook verticals. A new and unique odds boost concept, “Super Swedes,” will also premiere, offering customers in Sweden the opportunity to follow and bet on currently topical Swedish teams, athletes, and clubs competing on the international stage.

Gustaf Hagman, LeoVegas Group CEO, said “I’m absolutely thrilled to bring BetMGM to Sweden, where it all started! LeoVegas Group has been a leading operator in Sweden since its inception, and I’m confident that Swedish players will love the unique Vegas experience and golden offers that they will find on BetMGM. Sweden has never been closer to Las Vegas!”.

In the past year, BetMGM has partnered with Premier League clubs Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, and Wolverhampton Wanderers, opening the door to exciting and exclusive partnership events.

An omnichannel marketing campaign is set to launch in November, which will include radio, TV commercials, out-of-home (OOH), and digital out-of-home advertising (DOOH).

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Betway becomes Global Betting Partner of Bologna FC 1909

Leading global online sports betting and gaming brand Betway has announced a deal to become the ‘Global Betting Partner’ of Italian Serie A and Champions League club, Bologna FC 1909. The long-term agreement is the latest addition to the Super Group-owned brand’s enviable football portfolio, which includes partnerships with prominent clubs and leagues around the glob

Under the rights of this agreement, Betway’s branding will feature virtually on the LEDs around the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara pitch. The partnership will also extend to providing customers with VIP tickets and exclusive ‘money-can’t-buy’ experiences such as meet and greets, and play-on-the-pitch opportunities.

Furthermore, Betway will provide in-depth Code of Conduct and Responsible Gaming training to all players and staff at Bologna FC. This training will cover regulations, education on gambling-related harms, and the tools and support available, complementing the club's existing efforts in this area.

Super Group CEO, Neal Menashe, commented:

“We are excited to become the ‘Global Betting Partner’ of Bologna FC 1909, a club known for its illustrious history including seven Serie A titles. With our extensive and varied global sports sponsorship portfolio, we are delighted to once again have an official betting partnership in the world-renowned Italian football league.

“Our collaboration will strictly follow industry marketing standards and emphasize responsible gambling. We eagerly anticipate supporting Bologna FC in their domestic and European campaigns in the years ahead.”

Christoph Winterling, Commercial and Marketing Director at Bologna FC 1909, said:

“We are thrilled to welcome Betway as our global betting partner. This collaboration highlights our club's commercial strength and our commitment to delivering unique experiences to our supporters. Partnering with a renowned global brand like Betway is incredibly exciting for us, and we are proud to join their esteemed sports portfolio. We look forward to working together to promote responsible gambling and enhance fan engagement.”

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PGA of America and PENN Entertainment announce sports betting partnership

The PGA of America and PENN Entertainment, announced today a multiyear sports betting partnership. Under the agreement, ESPN BET becomes the “Official Sports Betting Sponsor” of the PGA Championship through 2026. The 2024 PGA Championship will take place at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky from 16-19 May.

This agreement marks a milestone for the PGA Championship as it becomes the first men’s golf major to establish an official sports betting sponsor. ESPN BET is a best-in-class online sportsbook that combines PENN’s proprietary in-house technology and deep sportsbook operational expertise with ESPN’s industry-leading brand and multiplatform reach.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with PENN Entertainment and immerse ESPN BET into the spectator experience throughout the PGA Championship,” said Jeff Price, PGA of America Chief Commercial Officer. “The added onsite presence of ESPN BET as well as broadcast and content offerings will provide spectators with exciting new ways to enjoy and engage with all of the action during the PGA Championship.”

“We’re pleased to be the PGA of America’s first ever gaming partner and align ESPN BET with this prestigious men’s golf major,” said Jason Birney, Vice President of Operations, PENN Interactive. “We look forward to accessing highly engaging touchpoints to bring ESPN BET onto the course and into the PGA Championship broadcast on ESPN. With the PGA Championship set to take place in states where ESPN BET operates through 2026, this partnership provides us with a great opportunity to interact with and engage golf fans.”

The 2024 PGA Championship will feature the ESPN BET Members Lounge located adjacent to the green on the par-4 13th hole. The ESPN BET Members Lounge is a premium hospitality space available only to ESPN BET account holders. The lounge offers views of Valhalla's newly renovated signature 13th green and includes a variety of amenities including beverages, covered seating, a VR simulator of the 13th hole, special ESPN BET offers for patrons on site, and more. Additional consumer-facing activities will also take place in the lounge throughout the week.

In addition to activating onsite at the Championship, ESPN BET will be integrated into broadcasts on ESPN networks, with betting odds and insights provided to enhance storytelling within the Championship. The sponsorship also includes opportunities for collaborative content across PGA of America digital media platforms. In the leadup to the Championship, ESPN BET will offer specially curated PGA Championship betting offers prior to and during all four rounds of competition.

The 2025 PGA Championship will be contested at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina, while Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, will host the 2026 PGA Championship.

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Oddschecker Media Group acquires SuperScommesse

Oddschecker Global Media (OGM), a global technology company that offers the world's leading odds comparison site and a betting destination for millions of users, this week confirmed the acquisition of acclaimed Italian sports network SuperScommesse from Catena Media.

The deal sees OGM further expand into Europe’s second-largest betting market to consolidate its position as the country’s number-one sports betting advertising company, organically complementing its other media partnerships already operational with Gazzetta (La Gazzetta dello Sport) and DAZN, which leverage tens of millions of unique users and two popular TV shows between them.

SuperScommesse furnishes OGM with deep local expertise, featuring a team that has proven itself adept at driving sustained growth in the market, allied to a recognizable and trusted local-language brand. In addition, its tech stack and tools will deliver network efficiencies to the acquiring group’s brands in other markets, while OGM’s own technology will improve SuperScommesse’s services and fan engagement across a loyal customer base.

“As the growth of sports betting in this sports-mad market continues apace, we wanted to double down on our presence in this key territory,” said Stuart Simms, CEO of Oddschecker Media Group. “We see SuperScommesse as the ideal strategic complement to our strong Italian footprint.

“We’re looking forward to servicing its customer base with an enhanced product that combines the Oddschecker DNA with its well-regarded brand name and local expertise in a market that still has huge growth potential as it builds out an online, cashless identity.

“This digital tide is only rolling one way, so the synergies are as obvious as they are natural: the Italian market allows for odds comparison as a consumer service, and we remain the pre-eminent odds comparison provider.”

This latest acquisition will further bolster the effectiveness of the Confido Network, a cutting-edge affiliate partnership network - which covers over 1,000 deals from 200+ global operators - announced by OGM earlier in November 2023.

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Maymman named SuperBet CEO

Jimmy Maymann, currently Deputy Chairman of the Board, will take on the role of CEO of SuperBet starting on 15 January 2024.

Jimmy brings extensive senior and board-level leadership experience, combined with a proven track-record as an innovator and entrepreneur specializing in the creation, development, and transformation of companies across the technology & media sectors, digital services, telecoms, and NGOs.

As a seasoned tech investor, Jimmy has played a pivotal role in creating and scaling more than 10 companies, including video distribution platform Goviral, which he co-founded and later sold to AOL. As CEO of The Huffington Post, he helped to fuel international growth and saw audience numbers increase from 35m to more than 210m unique monthly visitors. As Executive Vice President of AOL’s portfolio of content brands, he reached a global audience of 499m visitors a month.

Jimmy Maymann Maymman, Deputy Chairman of the Board and Incoming CEO, Superbet Group: “Superbet has tremendous potential in terms of business scalability and expansion into international markets, all within a solid framework of trust between the Group, its customers and market stakeholders. The progressive thinking of the leadership team is a testament to this highly talented and visionary group."

"I am delighted to take on the role of CEO and offer my expertise and passion, closely working with Superbet’s Board to accomplish the company’s goal of becoming a global leader in the tech and entertainment industry, while fostering an exemplary environment of responsible gaming."

We are very grateful and would like to thank Johnny Hartnett for an exceptional mandate as CEO, which saw remarkable results in terms of market growth, transformation of our proprietary product & technology platform and the creation of Happening, the Group’s dedicated tech company. Starting with 15 January 2024, Johnny will continue to be part of the Superbet journey, as an important member of the Group's Board.

Johnny Hartnett, acting CEO, Superbet Group: “The last five years have been the ride of a lifetime. I’d like to thank Sacha and the Dragic family for the opportunity they gave me and the unwavering trust, support, guidance, and friendship over my five-year tenure. I took over a business with an incredible foundation to work from and hopefully the building blocks we’ve put on top of that will set the business up well for the next phase of its growth."

"Superbet is very fortunate to have someone of Jimmy Maymann's experience, capability, and leadership to take over as CEO. I look forward to ensuring a seamless transition with Jimmy and to continued commitment to the Superbet journey in my next role on the Board of Directors.”

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OlyBet launches affiliate program in Spain and Slovakia with Income Access

Income Access is excited to announce that OlyBet has recently launched its affiliate program in Spain and Slovakia with Income Access.

This expansion builds upon the successful partnership between the two companies, which began in 2016 when Income Access started providing its industry-leading platform to OlyBet in the Baltic countries. The new program will allow affiliates to promote to players in these new markets, with the support of Income Access's advanced marketing and analytics tools, flexible commissions, detailed performance tracking, and a knowledgeable team with over 20 years of experience in the industry.

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BetMGM opens retail sportsbook at Isleta Resort & Casino

BetMGM, a leading sports betting and iGaming operator, announced the opening of a new retail sportsbook at Isleta Resort & Casino in Albuquerque. This partnership marks BetMGM's sports betting launch in New Mexico.

"This is an exciting moment for both Isleta Resort & Casino and those that enjoy the fun and excitement of sports betting. We believe we are 'Where the fun begins' when it comes to New Mexico Gaming," said Adrianna Jiron, Chief Operations Officer, Isleta Resort & Casino.

Adam Greenblatt, Chief Executive Officer, BetMGM, said, "It's a privilege to enter New Mexico and collaborate with Isleta Resort & Casino. We're confident sports fans will enjoy the world-class gameday experience that only BetMGM provides."

The BetMGM Sportsbook at Isleta is 4,900 square feet and features 35 television screens, along with two VIP sections. The sportsbook also includes five betting windows and four betting kiosks.

Karl Waitner, Chief Executive Officer, Isleta Resort & Casino, said, "Isleta Resort & Casino's goal is to constantly improve the consumer experience. Our new partnership with BetMGM makes unforgettable moments in sports even more personal, powerful, and fun."

As BetMGM continues to expand, responsible gambling education remains a key focus. BetMGM is proud to provide resources to help customers play responsibly including GameSense, an industry leading program, developed and licensed to MGM Resorts by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation. Through the integration within BetMGM's mobile and desktop platforms, customers can receive the same GameSense experience they have grown to count on at MGM Resorts properties nationwide. This complements BetMGM's already existing responsible gambling tools which serve to provide customers with an entertaining and safe digital experience.

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MGM Resorts lauches BetMGM brand in the UK

MGM Resorts International announced today the launch of its BetMGM iGaming and online sports betting brand in the U.K, kicking off MGM Resorts' strategy of expanding the BetMGM brand into international markets. The new international BetMGM-branded offering leverages the technology and platform of LeoVegas, the Swedish-based gaming company acquired by MGM Resorts last year.

"BetMGM is a proven brand in the sports betting and iGaming space, and we look forward to welcoming international players into our platforms designed specifically for them," said MGM Resorts CEO and President Bill Hornbuckle. "Today's announcement represents a key step forward in our international growth strategy, which has been advancing rapidly since our acquisition of LeoVegas."

The BetMGM UK online offering provides customers with exciting new product features such as large-scale and frequent jackpots, loyalty rewards, unique and compelling sports promotions and exclusive slots. The new sports and casino experience utilizes the BetMGM brand and MGM Resorts' best-in-class heritage entertainment in Las Vegas to deliver a compelling and safe online experience in the UK.

The product is available now on desktop and mobile web with further functional development, including mobile applications, planned before a national media launch in mid-September. More information can be found at: betmgm.co.uk.

"We've had great success in the U.S. and Canada with our BetMGM brand and we're confident we can duplicate this success in other markets, beginning with the UK," said Gary Fritz, President, MGM Resorts International Interactive. "The UK is a mature online gaming market, and we believe the BetMGM brand will provide distinct relevance to both sports bettors and iGaming consumers."

BetMGM, LLC, the joint venture between MGM Resorts and Entain, will continue to operate the BetMGM brand in the United States and Canada utilizing the technology and platform provided by Entain.

LeoVegas is currently available in nine jurisdictions in Europe and Canada.

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Betting industry urges great cooperation on safer gambling marketing

Social media giants are being urged to co-operate with the betting and gaming industry to limit marketing seen by young people and problem gamblers. Standards body, The Betting and Gaming Council, want to implement new measures for online adverts but are being undermined by social media platforms. BGC Chief Executive Michael Dugher has written to Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer MP, urging her to put pressure on social media platforms as part of the Government’s drive to tackle problem gambling among the young in particular. Launching the recent Gambling White Paper Mrs Frazer proposed measures that specifically looked at the under 25 age group. In his letter, Mr Dugher explains that an earlier BGC drive saw social media platforms allow the public to opt-out from receiving betting and gaming advertising. However, members say they need further cooperation to deliver other measures – in particular for those who have signed up to the industry self-exclusion tool GAMSTOP. The industry wants a ‘marketing suppression scheme’ which it says would stop 300,000 people registered to GAMPSTOP from receiving direct marketing on social media. In a letter to DCMS Secretary of State Mrs Frazer, Mr Dugher says: “This is impossible to achieve without the cooperation of the social media platforms themselves. This is a sensible solution, which BGC members are keen on implementing, but we cannot do so without the cooperation of social media platforms. “I would urge you to help on this matter by calling on social media platforms to finally cooperate with the BGC and make the relevant functionality available, so we can help protect the most vulnerable.” It would also like social media platforms to limit the frequency of ads to specific age groups, something members cannot do without cooperation. BGC members have already taken major steps to ensure only those legally allowed to bet see online marketing for regulated betting and gaming products. Currently all social media advertisements for BGC members must be targeted at those aged over 25, unless platforms can provide evidence to verify the accuracy of their targeting to over 18s. A new BGC code of conduct was also introduced placing a ban on football clubs using their social media accounts - which are popular with youngsters – posting direct marketing on betting odds and sites. The regulated betting and gaming industry in the U.K. supports 110,000 jobs, generates £4.2 billion in tax and contributes £7.1 billion to the economy. Around 22.5 million adults in the UK bet each month and we are encouraged by the latest figures from the Gambling Commission which show the rate of problem gambling among adults in the U.K. is 0.3%.

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Caesars Sportsbook is live in Massachusetts with mobile sports betting

With the launch of legalized mobile sports wagering in Massachusetts, Caesars Sportsbook, the flagship sports wagering platform for Caesars Entertainment, Inc., today announced it’s officially live in the Bay State. Customers who want to enjoy an elevated sports betting experience with unmatched rewards can now download the Caesars Sportsbook app on iOS and Android or visit online.

“With the sports calendar gaining momentum and multiple Massachusetts teams having remarkable seasons, it’s a great time to bring a new entertainment experience to sports fans in the Commonwealth,” said Eric Hession, President of Caesars Digital. “Caesars Sportsbook is primed to deliver a best-in-class sports wagering experience to Massachusetts sports fans, and we’d like to thank the Massachusetts Gaming Commission for approving our expansion into the Bay State.”

Caesars Sportsbook links mobile sports betting to unparalleled rewards through the top-rated loyalty program Caesars Rewards. Each bet placed earns Tier Credits that contribute to one's status and Reward Credits that can be redeemed for exclusive Caesars Rewards experiences and discounted getaways at various Caesars Entertainment locations throughout the United States.

The Caesars Sportsbook app provides a premier sports betting experience from anywhere in Massachusetts, with numerous deposit options, fast payouts, and user-friendly features. Eligible customers can explore a wide variety of markets – which have recently expanded to include a greater selection of in-play and real-time play-by-play betting options – as well as cross-sport same-game parlays and more.

Starting today, eligible sports fans anywhere in Massachusetts can download the Caesars Sportsbook app, register, and deposit funds to take advantage of a special sign-up offer for first-time users.

$1,500 First Bet On Us:

- Sign up using promo code CZR1BET and place your first bet of any value
- If that first bet is graded as a loss, receive:
One Bonus Bet equal to the amount of your first wager up to $1,500Pending approval by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, Caesars Sportsbook plans to offer in-person sports wagering and convenient mobile account cash deposits at legendary Raynham Park just south of Boston. Caesars Sportsbook at Raynham Park will open as a temporary sportsbook inside its current simulcasting facility in spring 2023 before expanding to a 30,000-square-foot sportsbook inside one of the biggest standalone sports betting and pari-mutuel simulcasting establishments in the U.S.

Caesars is an industry leader in responsible gaming, continuing to focus on responsible gaming education as Caesars Sportsbook expands into new markets. As a complement to the tools in place that encourage responsible play on the Caesars Sportsbook app including Deposit Limits, Spending Limits, Daily Time Limits, and Cool Off Time Limits, Caesars recently announced two new responsible gaming policies.

The first is the industry’s most expansive universal exclusion policy, in which any participant currently on a state-sponsored self-exclusion list where Caesars operates is added to the universal exclusion list for Caesars' gaming facilities and platforms across the enterprise. Additionally, the company is adopting an enhanced 21+ gaming policy that will limit Caesars Rewards accounts to individuals over 21 and, where allowed by law, limit all domestic gaming, pari-mutuel, sports, and iGaming options to those over 21.

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Sports betting market to be worth $182.12 billion by 2030

The global sports betting market size is estimated to reach $182.12 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 10.3% from 2023 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. This growth of the market is driven by the proliferation of internet infrastructure and evolving regulatory landscape of the entire gambling industry across the world. In addition, the increase in the number of sports events and leagues worldwide such as the NFL, FIFA World Cup, Carabao Cup, and UEFA Europa League has positively influenced the growth of the market. Furthermore, an increase in disposable income and the rising usage of AI and blockchain technologies to improve the prediction algorithms in betting software are likely to boost the growth of the market during the forecast period.

Key Industry Insights & Findings from the report:

- North America is expected to witness a CAGR of around 11% during the forecast period. The U.S. has legalized sports betting in 36 states as of January 2023, which is a promoting factor for the regional market growth.

- The online platform segment dominated the market in 2022 and is expected to showcase the highest CAGR during the forecast period.

- The fixed-odds wagering segment accounted for a significant market share in 2022. However, the eSports betting segment is likely to witness growth at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period owing to the surge in demand for interactive games.

- Football, also known as soccer, registered the highest market share in 2022. Horseracing, followed by football, is extremely popular and accounted for the second-highest market share.

Sports Betting Market Growth & Trends

Esports, which is an organized, multiplayer video game competition, played by professional players, individuals, or teams, has gained massive popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic and witnessed a surge in the number of events worldwide. Market players are utilizing the increased number of esports events to offer an opportunity for their customers to bet on such esports competitions and earn extra income. The surge in online sports events backed up by a rise in the number of esports tournaments offers stable growth opportunities for the betting industry. For instance, according to the report by the U.K. Gambling Commission, there was a huge 2922% year-on-year rise in esports betting revenue from March 2019 to March 2020.

Major players in the global betting industry now operate via official websites and online platforms to cater to the increased demand for sports betting. Additionally, the market players are expanding their presence across countries with supportive regulatory compliance. For instance, in December 2021, Unikrn Inc., a global esports betting & entertainment media company introduced its betting platform in Canada and Brazil. In addition to this launch, the company has further announced to increase its presence across a greater number of regulated markets in 2023.

The lives of multiple households around the globe have been affected during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, this situation led to the cancellation of worldwide sports matches and the closure of land-based casinos and betting shops. However, the pandemic expanded the online sports betting industry due to the rise of esports and virtual sporting events. The popularity of online sports betting increased during the pandemic with an upsurge in the number of betting participants. For instance, according to a study conducted by Public Health England, online casino gambling had seen growth by nearly 9.0% during the pandemic. Furthermore, as per the GB Gambling Commission survey, betting habits among people have changed due to Covid-19, with mobile devices continuing to be the most popular medium for gambling. The survey also found a massive inclination towards esports betting across the globe.

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World Cup drives illegal sports betting activity in UK

The number of U.K. punters visiting unregulated online black market gambling sites tripled during the World Cup, new research reveals.

In December alone 250,000 people visited unregulated, black market sites compared to around 80,000 during the same month the previous year, with a similar jump in November.

Leading research team Yield Sec conducted the new analysis for the Betting and Gaming Council to assess the scale of black market gambling last year, including during the Qatar World Cup.

Analysts also found online traffic to sites advertising services to problem gamblers who had self-excluded from UK operators, rose almost 83 per cent.

All regulated betting operators in the UK are signed up to GamStop – a self-exclusion system that automatically blocks access across all regulated operators.

But the landmark report by Yield Sec, stated: “Non-GamStop sites have generated 82.68 per cent more visits from 26.88 per cent more unique customers during Nov-Dec 2022 compared to the previous two month period, spending on average 78 per cent more time on site.”

During that two month period alone over 64,500 vulnerable players searched for black market sites offering betting which circumvents GamStop.

The research also discovered peaks in traffic to black market sites in March during Cheltenham and June during Ascot, indicating horse racing is being heavily targeted by illegal gambling outfits.

Industry experts established it takes less than 30 seconds to sign up to a black market site before placing your first bet, compared to an average of 12 minutes with a regulated UK operator.

This is because UK operators must conduct strict identity and age verification checks to prevent problem gambling and fraud.

Michael Dugher, CEO at the Betting and Gaming Council, said: “This research exposes the dire threat the growing unsafe, unregulated black market poses to punters.

“While the regulated industry was going to great lengths to protect young people during the World Cup and adhering to strict regulations and promoting safer gambling, black market operators were preying on the vulnerable.

“These unlicensed sites offer none of the safer gambling tools promoted by our members, they pay no tax and employ no one, they do not contribute a penny to sport or services tackling gambling harm, and they do nothing to protect vulnerable players.

“This data shows the World Cup drove a range of worrying gambling trends in the UK - not in the regulated sector as predicted by anti-gambling prohibitionists - but in the unsafe unregulated black market online.

“There has been too much complacency about the threat of the black market. Rather than dismissing the problem, the regulator and the Government need to tread extremely carefully and resist blanket, intrusive affordability checks at low levels that push even more punters to these dangerous sites.”

Overall, the number of visits to black market websites from the UK increased by 46 per cent in 2022, with around 148,000 customers accessing illicit sites each month.

Separate research by PwC found the number of customers using unlicensed betting websites more than doubled, from 210,000 in 2019 to 460,000 in 2020 and the money staked in the billions.

Ismail Vali, Founder and CEO at Yield Sec, said: “This trend of increased illegal gambling activity during prominent sporting events reflects the ever-present threat that illegal operators pose to players and the audience.”

Meanwhile, the number of TV betting adverts shown on TV during the World Cup group stages fell by 34 per cent compared to the World Cup in 2018, figures have revealed.

Under the voluntary Whistle-to-Whistle ban by BGC members, TV betting commercials for regulated operators cannot be shown from five minutes before a match kicks off until five minutes after it ends, before the 9pm watershed.

A report last year found that the ban had led to a 97% reduction in the number of such ads being seen by children at that time.

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Betway granted extension of sportsbook license in Germany

Today, leading global online betting and gaming brand Betway, has announced an extension of its sportsbook license from the Regional Council in Darmstadt.

Betway will continue to offer its best-in-class product to their German customers in a regulated gaming market where responsible gambling safeguards are put in place to ensure customers are betting in a safe and secure environment.

The Super Group owned brand are a prominent sponsor of high-profile sports in Germany. They boast an enviable portfolio in German Football that includes 2022 Europa League winner Eintracht Frankfurt alongside VfB Stuttgart, Hertha Berlin, Werder Bremen and Schalke 04. The brand is also a big supporter of Tennis in Germany and are Official Betting Partner at the Boss Open, Terra Wortmann Open and the Hamburg Open which are three of the four ATP tournaments that take place in the country.

Betway has also made a commitment to the German market by opening an office in Düsseldorf, Germany. The plans for continued growth include better localization of their sportsbook product, easier access to talent as well as creating jobs in Germany.

Anthony Werkman, CEO of Betway, said:

“We’re really proud of being awarded an extension of our sportsbook license, which means we can keep offering our much-loved products to sports betting fans in Germany.

“We’ve got an industry leading sponsorship portfolio, that further enhances our commitment to supporting sports that our customers know and love.

“We’ve got a great product and now we’ve got a great office and team on the ground which will help us continue to enhance a sporting experience for our customers whilst continuing to ensure they’re playing in a safe, secure and responsible environment.”

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BetMGM launches mobile sports betting in Maryland

BetMGM, a leading sports betting and iGaming operator, launched its mobile app in Maryland today giving customers access to a variety of online betting options and benefits tied to MGM Resorts’ premier destinations nationwide, including MGM National Harbor.

“This is a significant milestone that elevates our vision to deliver world-class entertainment to sports fans in the DC-Maryland-Virginia region,” said BetMGM CEO Adam Greenblatt. “The convenience of our best in-class mobile app connects directly to the engaging atmosphere we’ve created in our retail sportsbooks at MGM National Harbor and Nationals Park.”

The BetMGM app offers a user-friendly sports betting platform experience, giving Maryland sports fans the ability to customize pre-game, live in-play, futures and parlay wagers. Additionally, integration with MGM Rewards allows Maryland’s BetMGM users to redeem their gameplay for world-class experiences at MGM Resorts properties nationwide including MGM Grand, Bellagio and ARIA in Las Vegas, Borgata in New Jersey, and Beau Rivage in Mississippi.

The mobile app complements the BetMGM Sportsbook & Lounge at MGM National Harbor that opened in December 2021. The BetMGM Sportsbook features a 360-degree jumbotron and 110-foot state-of-the-art wrap-around screen. MGM National Harbor has more than 40 sports betting kiosks located throughout the casino, a second BetMGM Sportsbook on the casino’s second level and a BetMGM betting counter and four kiosks at TAP Sports Bar.

Melonie Johnson, MGM National Harbor’s President & COO, said, “Today’s announcement is monumental as it allows us to expand our sports betting offerings and connect with guests beyond our resort’s walls. The BetMGM Sportsbook & Lounge is an incredible amenity, and the addition of the mobile app further enhances our customer experience.”

BetMGM strengthened its commitment to the DMV in January 2022 when it opened the first retail sportsbook connected to a Major League Baseball stadium at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C. That followed the launch of the BetMGM mobile app in Virginia in January 2021.

As BetMGM continues to expand to new markets, responsible gambling education remains a key focus. BetMGM is proud to provide resources to help customers play responsibly including GameSense, an industry leading program, developed and licensed to MGM Resorts by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation. Through the integration within BetMGM’s mobile and desktop platforms, customers can receive the same GameSense experience they have grown to count on at MGM Resorts properties nationwide. This complements BetMGM’s already existing responsible gambling tools which serve to provide customers with an entertaining and safe digital experience.

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BetMGM appoints Rhea Loney as Chief Compliance Officer

BetMGM, a leading sports betting and digital gaming entertainment company, announced that Rhea Loney will join its executive team as Chief Compliance Officer. Loney will oversee BetMGM's compliance department, including online and retail operational compliance, registration and licensing, AML and financial compliance, and responsible gaming.

"Rhea brings extensive industry knowledge and regulatory experience to BetMGM and is a phenomenal addition to our team as we continue to grow rapidly in a dynamic industry," said Adam Greenblatt, CEO, BetMGM.

Loney joins BetMGM from Penn Interactive, the online subsidiary of Penn Entertainment, Inc., where she served as VP of Compliance, Regulatory Affairs & Strategy. While at Penn, she helped build the compliance team, including licensing, regulatory affairs, operational compliance, risk & fraud, AML, and responsible gaming departments. Additionally, Loney oversaw the online launch of Barstool Sportsbook in 13 states, iCasino in 4 states and over 20 retail sportsbook launches.

"I'm thrilled to play a meaningful role in BetMGM's continued commitment to excellence in compliance,” said Loney. “BetMGM is uniquely positioned in the market, and we will continue to be a leader and innovator in responsible gaming and compliance."

Prior to Penn Interactive, Loney served as an Assistant Attorney General with the Louisiana Department of Justice, Division of Gaming. While there, she represented and provided legal counsel to the Louisiana State Racing Commission from 2011 to 2019 and was first to administratively prosecute the Dermophin (Frog Juice) cases in the U.S.

Loney holds a J.D. from Tulane Law School, and a B.S. from Southeastern Louisiana University.

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