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Jan 17–23, 2026 iGaming Recap: US iGaming Breaks Records, Kalshi Blocked, Allwyn Acquires PrizePicks

This week brings a clearer picture of where the market is accelerating and where pressure is building. U.S. online gambling continues to post record results, but courts and regulators are drawing firmer lines around prediction markets and illegal advertising. At the same time, acquisitions and new partnerships show operators still moving quickly to lock in growth as rules tighten.

This week in the online gambling industry:

  • Kalshi blocked in Massachusetts as prediction markets face legal limits.
  • Michigan and Pennsylvania set new records for US online gambling revenue.
  • US and UK authorities step up action against illegal gambling and fraud.
  • Allwyn finalises $1.6bn PrizePicks acquisition to expand US footprint.
  • Brazil and the UK elevate gambling harm as a public health priority.

😄 Catch up on last week’s iGaming Recap and see what you may have missed.

😎 Explore our Opinion Corner for timely takes on trending iGaming conversations.

Here’s the full rundown:

Regulatory & Legal Updates

UK Regulator Says Meta Profits While Criminals Target Vulnerable Gamblers, Gambling Insider

UK regulators warned that Meta continues to profit from illegal gambling advertising, while criminals use its platforms to target vulnerable consumers with unlicensed casino and betting ads. According to the report, many ads direct users to offshore operators that bypass UK safeguards such as self-exclusion and affordability checks.

Kalshi Cannot Operate Sports Prediction Market in Massachusetts, Judge Rules, NBC News

A Massachusetts judge ruled that Kalshi is not permitted to offer sports-related prediction markets in the state, siding with state regulators who argued the product constitutes illegal sports betting. The court rejected Kalshi’s claim that its contracts fall solely under federal commodities law. 

Two-Year Prison Sentence Handed Down in NBA Betting Fraud Case, NEXT

A U.S. court sentenced a former basketball insider to two years in prison for his role in a betting fraud scheme tied to NBA games. Prosecutors said the defendant exploited access to non-public information to place wagers and tip off others.

Financial Performance & Business Moves

Michigan Online Gambling Revenue Hits Record $3.8 Billion in 2025, iGB

Michigan’s regulated online gambling market generated a record $3.8 billion in gross gaming revenue in 2025, according to state data. Online casino continued to dominate, accounting for the vast majority of revenue, while online sports betting contributed a smaller share. 

Pennsylvania Sets iCasino Revenue Record of Nearly $260 Million in December, iGB

Pennsylvania’s online casinos produced almost $260 million in revenue in December, marking the highest monthly total on record for the state. Slot games once again drove the bulk of revenue, while online table games posted steady growth. 

Allwyn Completes $1.6bn PrizePicks Acquisition, NEXT

Allwyn has completed its $1.6 billion acquisition of PrizePicks, bringing the U.S. fantasy and prediction-style gaming platform fully into its global portfolio. The deal significantly expands Allwyn’s exposure to the U.S. market. Allwyn said PrizePicks will continue to operate as a standalone brand following the transaction.

Technology & Innovation in Gambling

X Games and Stake Announce Global Betting Partnership, iGamingToday

X Games has signed a global partnership with Stake that will introduce betting-focused integrations across action sports events. The deal includes co-branded content, live odds integration, and digital fan engagement tools, with an emphasis on action sports such as skateboarding, snowboarding, and BMX. 

Platipus Adds Instant and Slot Titles With January 2026 Launches, Yogonet

Platipus has expanded its content portfolio with the January 2026 launch of new instant-win and slot games, including scratch-style titles and traditional reel slots. The company said the releases are designed for fast gameplay and mobile-first use, targeting operators looking to diversify beyond standard slot libraries.

Responsible Gambling & Player Protection

Brazil Health Ministry Heads National Problem Gambling Care Strategy, SBC News

Brazil’s Ministry of Health has taken the lead in developing a national care pathway for problem gambling, following the formal regulation of betting. The strategy will integrate gambling harm treatment into Brazil’s public health system, including primary care and mental health services. 

GambleAware Records 90% Increase in Safer Gambling Awareness, SBC News

GambleAware reported a 90% year-on-year increase in public awareness of safer gambling tools and support, following expanded education and media campaigns. The charity said awareness levels rose across multiple demographics, with particularly strong gains among younger adults.

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Stories from iGaming Forums

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About the Author
Andrej Jovanovski
iGaming & Casino News Writer

Andrej Jovanovski is a seasoned news writer with seven years of experience and a passion for sports betting and online casinos. A former basketball player and lifelong gaming enthusiast, he brings sharp analysis and industry insights to his iGaming coverage. When he's not writing, Andrej enjoys placing UFC and NBA bets, playing Blackjack, and watching high-stakes streams online.

Fact-checked by Christian Howells

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