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This week brought some major news across the gambling industry.
Bally’s made a bold move to take control of Australia’s Star Entertainment, while Sweden faced ongoing struggles with unlicensed betting operations.
In the U.S., the SAFE Bet Act resurfaces, promising tougher player protection, and in Thailand, casino legalization inches closer.
Meanwhile, innovative tech partnerships and responsible gaming initiatives continue to reshape the global iGaming experience.
😨 Missed last week’s updates? Catch up here.
😎 Don’t forget to check out this week’s Opinion Corner. We share our expert opinion about the top iGambling community stories from social media platforms.
Below are the latest developments shaping the iGaming industry this week.
Regulatory & Legal Updates
Reintroduction of the SAFE Bet Act Ahead of March Madness, YOGONET
In the United States, Congressman Paul D. Tonko and Senator Richard Blumenthal have reintroduced the Supporting Affordability and Fairness with Every Bet (SAFE Bet) Act. This legislation aims to establish federal consumer protection standards for the mobile sports betting industry. The bill proposes safeguards against predatory practices, including affordability checks, restrictions on advertising during live events, and a ban on credit card deposits. It also aims to combat illegal offshore gambling through federal-state cooperation. This marks a renewed push for federal oversight of sports wagering since the repeal of PASPA in 2018.
Thailand Advances Casino Legalization Efforts, Euronews
Thailand is progressing toward legalizing casinos. Thailand’s Cabinet approved the draft Integrated Entertainment Business Bill in January 2025. Recent changes to the draft law removed a THB50 million deposit requirement for operators, significantly lowering market entry barriers. The bill aims to establish integrated resorts to boost tourism and the economy. Locations like Bangkok and Phuket are expected to attract major international players such as Las Vegas Sands and Wynn Resorts. The legislation is pending parliamentary approval, and international casino operators are closely monitoring the situation and awaiting clarification on the licensing process.
Unlicensed Betting Continues to Thrive in Sweden, Gambling Insider
A report by Aktiebolaget Trav och Galopp (ATG) highlights the persistent issue of unlicensed gambling in Sweden. The report looked at the channelling rate, which represents the percentage of bets placed within the licensed gambling framework. The channeling rate was reported to be between 69% and 82% in the fourth quarter of 2024, falling short of the Swedish government’s target of 90%. Notably, 17 out of the 20 largest unlicensed sites utilize the same platform providers as licensed operators, and several offer Swedish banking integration.
Financial Performance & Business Moves
Bally’s Corporation Proposes Major Investment in Star Entertainment Group, Reuters
Star Entertainment Group, an Australian casino operator, has received a non-binding proposal from U.S.-based Bally’s Corporation for a capital injection of AU$ 250 million. This proposal involves issuing convertible notes that could be converted into shares, potentially giving Bally’s a controlling stake of at least 50.1% in Star. The Star board is currently reviewing this proposal, with no certainty of progression. Star has been facing financial challenges, including a $400 million debt and regulatory issues related to money laundering allegations. The company has also secured a $250 million bridge loan from King Street Capital Management and is in talks for further refinancing to stabilize its financial position.
Century Casinos Reports Mixed Financial Results, Gambling Insider
Century Casinos, Inc. reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2024. The company generated $137.8 million in revenue, marking a 4% decrease compared to the same quarter in the previous year. A net loss of $64.9 million was reported for the quarter, translating to a loss of $2.11 per share. Total revenue for the year was $575.9 million. The company reported a net loss of $128.2 million for the year, equating to a loss of $4.19 per share. Following the earnings announcement, Century Casinos’ stock reached a 52-week low of $1.92, reflecting a significant downturn and investor concerns.
Soft2Bet Launches ElaBet.gr in Greece, YOGONET
Soft2Bet, a prominent iGaming solutions provider, has expanded its European footprint by launching ElaBet.gr in Greece. ElaBet.gr will feature Greek-speaking live casino tables and three exclusive games inspired by Greek mythology: Gates of Hades, River of Styx, and Medusa’s Madness. The platform is powered by Soft2Bet’s proprietary gamification mechanics, introducing a mission-based gaming experience designed to boost user engagement and retention. Uri Poliavich, Founder and CEO of Soft2Bet, commented on the launch, “We are not just launching a product. We are setting a new benchmark for the gaming industry in Greece.”
Technology & Innovation in Gambling
AI Integration Expands at Soaring Eagle Casino, European Gaming
Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, has adopted Quick Custom Intelligence’s (QCI) Chatalytics platform. The platform integrates AI to improve casino operations and guest satisfaction.The suite includes tools like Slot Copilot and Player Copilot, which provide real-time insights into slot performance and personalized player engagement. This integration aims to optimize gaming operations and elevate the overall guest experience.
SimplePlay to Provide its APIgrator Solution to Slotegrator, Gambling Insider
Slotegrator has partnered with SimplePlay, an innovative game provider known for its high-quality gaming solutions. Simple Play will integrate its diverse gaming content into Slotegrator’s platform using the APIgrator solution. This collaboration aims to expand Slotegrator’s presence in the Asian market.SimplePlay will provide 60 slot titles featuring both Asian and Western themes, as well as immersive table and fishing games.
Responsible Gambling & Player Protection
Mastercard and Visa Linked to Illegal Gambling Sites in the UK, The Guardian
An investigation has revealed that Mastercard and Visa have been processing payments for unlicensed gambling websites targeting UK consumers. Despite prior commitments to block transactions on such sites, Mastercard was found as a payment option on nine unlicensed platforms, while Visa appeared on two. Affected users reported issues like being unable to withdraw winnings and sudden account closures. Both companies have stated they are investigating these allegations and emphasize their zero-tolerance policies toward illegal activities on their networks. The UK Gambling Commission is aware of these sites and is working to disrupt the unlicensed market.
- The impact of gambling advertising on gambling severity, Frontiers – Psychology on X
- How can counselling help with gambling addiction? Michael Owens on LinkedIn
- Big changes coming to UK online gambling, Enrique J. on LinkedIn
- Sports betting platforms are quietly revolutionizing traditional gambling by offering decentralized, transparent and community-driven experiences, Amy Baker on X
- I want to give a shoutout to the people who have shaped my last 27 years with casinos and sports betting, ‘Moshe Adir’ on LinkedIn
Stories from iGaming Forums
- Playing different slot games and playing just one, which is more profitable? Bitcoin Forum
- March 2025 Payment Thread, GPWA Forum
- Premier League Prediction Thread 2024/2025, Bitcoin Forum
