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The upcoming SBC Summit Rio will dive into compliance strategies, regulatory developments, and updates on Brazil’s shifting industry landscape through the dedicated ‘Regulation & Compliance’ track. For brands aiming to capitalize on Brazil’s newly regulated market, maintaining strict compliance with evolving regulations is essential for a successful and sustainable entry. The upcoming SBC Summit Rio   will provide 15,000  industry professionals with essential insights into compliance strategies, regulatory developments, and updates on Brazil’s shifting industry landscape through the dedicated ‘ Regulation & Compliance’  track. The dedicated educational program is scheduled for Wednesday, 26th February, the first core day of Brazil’s premier sports betting and gaming event, held at Riocentro, Rio de Janeiro. Rasmus Sojmark , CEO and Founder of SBC remarked: “As Brazil moves toward full regulation and technology continues to advance, staying informed on the latest regulatory and compliance developments is essential for any brand's success. “Brazil, with its dynamic and rapidly evolving market, demands a deep understanding of its complexities. That’s why we’ve introduced a dedicated track—to provide delegates with the insights they need, whether they are looking to enter the market or are already operating within it and need to adapt to the new environment.”   Delegates can look forward to in-depth discussions on the future regulation of land-based casinos, strategies for smaller operators to manage rising licensing fees, the factors driving international mergers and acquisitions, and innovative approaches for lotteries to modernize their offerings while staying compliant. The panel titled  ‘Lotteries: From Tradition to Innovation’ will examine how traditional lotteries can innovate their offerings, whilst maintaining regulatory compliance. Featuring industry experts Hugo Baungartner  (VP of Global Markets, Aposta Ganha), Felipe Maximino  (VP of Tech & Operations, Sorte Online), and Marco Taurisano (CEO, Kroopiê Consulting and Training), the panel will discuss how lotteries are embracing innovation to remain competitive and achieve long term sustainability, whilst also exploring the modern approaches adopted by lotteries to combat common market challenges. The panel ‘Brazil Cost: Taxation and Legal Insecurity’  will provide an in-depth analysis of Brazil’s intricate taxation framework. Featuring a lineup of experts from the Brazilian public sector, including Rodrigo Verly (Tax Auditor, Federal Revenue Service), Andrea Barreto  (General Coordinator of Tax Affairs, Attorney General’s Office, National Treasury), Ricardo Saadi (Director of Investigation and Combating Organized Crime and Corruption, Federal Police), and panel moderator Ana Helena Karnas Hoefel Pamplona (Lawyer, University Professor, and Co-founder of AMIG), discussions will highlight practical solutions for addressing taxation challenge and strategies for proactively managing tax compliance. The speakers will also discuss the legal risks brands may encounter if they fail to meet regulatory requirements. The session ‘Land-Based: New Laws, Big Opportunities’  will analyze Brazil’s complex and challenging journey toward modernizing the laws surrounding land-based betting. Bringing together prominent legal and industry experts, such as Bárbara Teles (Lawyer, Rei do Pitaco), Vitória Lopes Goellner (Legal Counsel, BET77), Magnho José (Editor and President, BNLData - IJL), and moderator Caio Loureiro (Partner, TozziniFreire Advogados), the panel will discuss land-based betting, including casinos, bingo, and ‘jogo do bicho’. Additionally, the panel will reflect on future land-based regulations and their potential implications for the vertical. Closing the track is the panel titled ‘ M&A Surge: The Fate of Local Champions’, which will explore how investment from international brands could elevate the financial burden of regulatory fees for smaller operations. Featuring leading experts Robin Chabra  (CEO, Tekkorp), David Carruthers (Strategy Executive, DigiPlus Interactive), Tom Waterhouse (Chief Investment Officer, Waterhouse VC), Neil Montgomery  (Founding Partner and Manager, Montgomery) and moderator Anton Kaszubowski  (Founder & Managing Director, SBC Advisory Partners), the panel will examine the key drivers of M&A activity, the regulatory challenges impacting mergers and acquisitions, and strategies for success for both international and domestic stakeholders. Alongside the ‘ Regulatory & Compliance ’ conference track, delegates will have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of the Brazilian market through dedicated tracks covering casino & sports betting , payments ,  affiliation , tech innovations , and player protection . Secure your spot at the upcoming SBC Summit Rio with the  ‘ Early Bird Special ’, granting access to all three core days of the event, including the exhibition floor, conference content, and evening networking parties, all for the discounted price of just R$2000 . Additionally, operators and affiliates can apply for free passes to the event. If you are an operator, you can apply for a free pass here , if you are an affiliate, you can apply for a free pass here .   Read related article: DJ Megastar Alok to Headline SBC Summit Rio 2025 in Brazil

DJ Afrojack and Brazilian house duo Dubdogz will perform at the INFINITY Rio party which will take place on February 27, 2025 at Rio’s Amphitheater. SBC will light up Rio de Janeiro with the highly anticipated INFINITY Rio party, happening on February 27th at the 2025 edition of SBC Summit Rio.  With Grammy award-winning producer Afrojack at the helm and Brazilian house duo Dubdogz bringing their signature energy, this electrifying event at Rio’s Amphitheater promises an unforgettable night of music and excitement for attendees. “INFINITY was born in Lisbon, where we kicked off our first EDM festival with top-tier DJs; Don Diablo, Miss Monique, and Darude. Now, we’re bringing that momentum to Rio with INFINITY Rio, taking things to a whole new level,” said Rasmus Sojmark, CEO & Founder of SBC. In the gaming industry, connections are everything, and INFINITY Rio will provide a unique platform to meet the game-changers driving progress in Brazil. As an event organizer, SBC is known for elevating attendee experiences with VIP treatment, combining business opportunities with world-class networking. By integrating music and entertainment—longtime inspirations for gaming—into the closing party, SBC will offer an event finale that truly captures the energy of the gaming world. EDM icon Afrojack rose to stardom with "Take Over Control," becoming a key figure in the genre. Known for collaborations with Beyoncé, Pitbull, and Will.i.am , his accolades include spots on Rolling Stone’s “50 Most Important People in EDM” and Forbes' “30 Under 30.” Moreover, the DJ’s 2020 track "All Night" climbed to the top of US dance radio charts and earned over 40 million streams, cementing his reputation as an EDM powerhouse. Sojmark commented: “Having Afrojack headlining the first INFINITY Rio really shows just how massive SBC Summit Rio is going to be. Our delegates are in for an EDM festival experience that mixes world-class entertainment with top-tier networking. “To give it that special Brazilian vibe, we’re also bringing in Dubdogz, an incredible homegrown duo that is taking the global scene by storm. We couldn’t miss the chance to showcase Brazil’s own talent at an event that’s all about Brazil!” Dubdogz, Brazil's twin sensations Lucas and Marcos Ruback are known for their dynamic blend of Brazilian Bass and House, chart-topping hits and a devoted fanbase. Among the few Brazilian acts on the "DJ Mag Top 100," they've performed at iconic stages like Tomorrowland, EDC, and Ushuaïa Ibiza. Their track "Infinity," a collaboration with Bhaskar, achieved Double Platinum status and surpassed 126 million Spotify streams. The Riocentro Super Stage, a fresh addition to SBC Summit Rio, will shed its conference atmosphere to host the party, with Afrojack and Dubdogz setting the tone for the Rio de Janeiro Carnival, starting the next day on the 28th of February.  “We’ve timed SBC Summit Rio 2025 perfectly so attendees can dive into business and then roll straight into the Carnival. With Afrojack and Dubdogz lighting up the stage, the Carnival kickoff is going to be epic,” Sojmark added.  In October, SBC announced superstar DJ Alok as the headliner for the INFINITY party in Rio. However, Alok has had to step down due to personal reasons. The SBC CEO commented: “Unfortunately, Alok won’t be able to join us at SBC Summit Rio 2025 as originally planned due to personal reasons. We’re as disappointed as you are, but these things happen, and we totally understand. “We’ve worked quickly to ensure the INFINITY Rio party still delivers the electric energy and unforgettable vibe you’re expecting. With Afrojack and Dubdogz taking the stage, we’re confident they’re the perfect replacements to make the night truly spectacular.” SBC Summit Rio has quickly established itself as the must-attend event for Brazil and has moved to Riocentro, one of Latin America’s largest convention centres, for its 2025 edition. February’s event is projected to attract more than 15,000 attendees. Alongside this growth, the introduction of the Super Stage will elevate the attendee experience, while the Affiliate Leaders Summit and Payment Expert Summit brands—both of which debuted in Lisbon—are set to make their Rio debut. Curious about Brazil’s biggest betting and iGaming event? Tickets are on sale now, purchase yours here. To get a 50% discount on event passes, use the Asia Casino News promo code at checkout: ACNPARTNERVIP Want to join the event and INFINITY Rio? Early Bird tickets are available now at R$2000 ($550 USD).  Affiliates  and operators  can apply for complimentary tickets.  Read related article: DJ Megastar Alok to Headline SBC Summit Rio 2025 in Brazil

Join 8,000+ industry leaders at SBC Summit Americas for top-tier networking, insights, and innovations in casino gaming and sports betting across North, South, and Central America.  SBC Summit Americas will bring together more than 8,000 industry professionals and host 300 exhibitors and sponsors, setting the stage for unparalleled networking, knowledge exchange, and growth opportunities across the casino (online and land-based) and sports betting sectors in North, South, and Central America. As the premier gathering for the Americas, this event delves deep into pivotal topics shaping the industry’s trajectory. From deciphering intricate market regulations to spearheading product innovation, fostering vital connections among operators and stakeholders, safeguarding sports integrity and data rights, exploring the dynamic realms of cryptocurrency, AI, and cybersecurity, and seizing the expansive opportunities in sports licensing. SBC Summit Americas’ meticulously-curated floor plan features specialized zones to suit varied interests and sectors. Attendees can explore the dynamic Casino & Sports Betting zone, spanning both online and land-based offerings, while its New Technology space will showcase revolutionary advancements in cybersecurity, FinTech, AI, and a Start-up pavilion.  Furthermore, the event will host two parallel summits: the Payment Experts Summit, showcasing the latest cutting-edge financial technologies, and the Affiliate Leaders Summit, spotlighting pioneering affiliates and media entities essential for the growth of the industry. In essence, the event will serve as an invaluable platform for operators, regulators, suppliers, and affiliates, offering not only insights but also opportunities to forge meaningful connections and engage in lucrative business ventures within North and South America’s most significant sports betting and gaming markets. Read related article:   SBC Boosts Americas Event with Affiliation,  Payment Summits

Authorities raided an office in Parañaque, arresting 453 individuals linked to illegal POGO and scam operations. Learn more about the crackdown and ongoing investigation. Authorities in the Philippines have intensified their crackdown on illegal offshore gaming and scam operations. On Thursday, a major raid at an office building in the Bay Area of Parañaque City led to the arrest of 453 individuals suspected of involvement in illicit Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO) and fraudulent activities. The operation was a coordinated effort by multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Bureau of Immigration (BI), the Department of Justice Office of Cybercrime (DOJ OOC), and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC). The raid stemmed from an arrest warrant issued for a Chinese national allegedly involved in fraud. Authorities had been monitoring the individual, an employee of a suspected illegal POGO, for months. A High-Tech Hub for Fraud? Inside the three-story building, authorities discovered 453 employees, including 146 foreign nationals, most of whom were Chinese. Many were found working at computer stations, raising suspicions that the location was being used for illicit online gaming and scam operations. According to PAOCC Spokesperson Director Winston Casio, the POGO had been operating for two years, relocating from the ASEANA area after law enforcement ramped up its scrutiny. “They’ve been operating for two years without stopping. They moved here from ASEANA when things got too hot over there,” Casio told GMA Integrated News. Authorities believe the building was divided into sections, each dedicated to different fraudulent activities. PAOCC Executive Director Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz revealed that one of the floors was set up specifically for online betting scams targeting Indian nationals. “The sixth floor was dedicated to an online betting scam, primarily targeting Indians. Meanwhile, Filipino employees were stationed on another floor,” Cruz explained. During the raid, investigators found scam scripts at workstations, providing further evidence of fraudulent schemes. A Repeat Offender? Authorities were particularly alarmed to learn that this POGO had already been raided and ordered to shut down in the past—yet it resurfaced under a new name. Shockingly, the company was operating with a Mayor’s permit, business license, and barangay permit. They are currently investigating how this company obtained the documents and their legality.  “Before permits are issued—whether from the barangay or city hall—there should be a thorough inspection of the establishment,” Cruz said. “If a company claims to be in the entertainment business, are they really offering entertainment? Or is it just a front for scams like what we found here?” What’s Next for the Arrested Individuals? The foreigners arrested from the operation are currently detained at the PAOCC detention facility. Meanwhile, Filipino emlployers are also being questioned as part of the investigation.  Hundreds of devices and sim cards seized during the raid will also be analyzed by digital forensic experts. Read related article :   Koreans, Filipinos Arrested in PH POGO Scam Raid

SBC Summit Americas 2024 debuts in Fort Lauderdale with two new side summits—the Affiliate Leaders Summit and Payment Expert Summit.  SBC is enhancing its North and South America-focused event,   SBC Summit Americas , debuting in Fort Lauderdale this year, with the addition of two dedicated side summits focused on affiliation and payments. Running on May 13-15 at the Broward County Convention Center, the   Affiliate Leaders Summit   and   Payment Expert Summit   will tackle key challenges in the respective sectors through dedicated educational tracks and specialized expo floor areas, helping attendees connect with relevant leads more efficiently. Rasmus Sojmark , CEO and Founder of SBC said: “Every year, more and more payment and affiliate professionals join our events, highlighting just how important these sectors are becoming. So, it just made sense to introduce these two side summits as part of the event.” With 4,000 representatives from leading operators and 1,000 affiliate representatives set to attend the event, the Affiliate Leaders Summit’s show floor will serve as a crucial platform for operators and affiliates to network, discuss traffic acquisition, negotiate commission structures, and everything in between.  Some of the top regional operators and affiliates have already secured their spots on the expo floor, ready for business discussions. Powerhouse brands exhibiting at the Affiliate Leaders Summit include Bazoom   Group , bet365 , BetMGM , Caesars   Digital , Clever   Advertising , DraftKings , FanDuel , and KeyAffiliates . For those seeking reinforcements in payments and compliance—whether through conference sessions on the latest trends or by discovering the right tools—the Payment Expert Summit will be packed with opportunities. The summit will bring together operators, payment providers, fintech leaders, and compliance experts, including firms specializing in KYC and AML. Confirmed exhibitors include Approvely / Gamble   ID , IDnow , PayNearMe , Paysafe , Signature   Payments , Trustly , and Transunion .  “By strategically positioning these summits on the show floor and grouping key company types together, we’ve made it easier than ever for attendees to discover the right products they need to stay competitive in their target markets," Sojmark added. Amid the buzz of the exhibitor booths, networking lounges will offer the perfect retreat for focused conversations and meaningful connections. Whether you're looking for a quiet space to hold meetings or a spot where like-minded professionals naturally gather, these lounges will provide an ideal setting to maximize the delegate’s time at the event.  At the Affiliate Leaders Summit, attendees can connect at the Affiliate   Leaders   Bar , VIP   Lounge , and Casino   Lounge , while the Payment Expert Summit will feature the Payments Bar  and Coffee   Lounge . Bringing the focus on the educational aspect of the two summits, the SBC CEO commented:  Attendees looking to gain deeper insights into the evolving affiliation landscape should join the Affiliate Leaders Summit track ,  where sessions will cover key topics such as driving growth in Latin American markets, leveraging big data, and navigating influencer marketing regulations. Some discussions will dive into more controversial strategies—exploring tactics like AI, PBNs, parasite SEO, and other methods for boosting affiliate site visibility. Beyond that, sessions will also focus on broader tech and marketing strategies, helping affiliates shift their focus from short-term customer acquisition to long-term retention. The   Payment Expert Summit  track will provide insights into key challenges and innovations in payments and compliance. Sessions will cover navigating complex tax structures for operators, enhancing cross-border collaborations, and balancing player safety with engagement. Experts will also explore strategies for reducing payment decline rates, optimizing payment mixes to drive customer acquisition, and analyzing the evolving role of cryptocurrencies. Get Your Ticket to SBC Summit Americas: Early Bird Deal (Full Event Pass): Gain access to all conference sessions, the expo floor, networking events, and evening parties.   Get your Full Event Pass with an Early Bird deal at $400 (ends March 17) . Expo+ Pass:  Includes access to the expo floor and all conference sessions (does not include access to evening networking events).   Get Your Expo+ Pass at $95.   Complimentary Operator & Affiliate Passes:  Operators and affiliates can apply for free passes, subject to approval.   Apply for Your Complimentary Operator Pass.   Apply for Your Complimentary Affiliate Pass. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest events in gaming? Check out our events calendar here .   Read related article:   SBC Summit Rio: Brazil’s First Post-Regulation Event Kicks Off Next Week

Orlando Magic and Atlanta Hawks clash in a pivotal Southeast Division battle, fighting for playoff positioning as they sit just half a game apart in the Eastern Conference standings By: Sanjay Belani Running score: 9-7 The Orlando Magic  and Atlanta Hawks  face off in a Southeast Division showdown, with both teams looking to improve their position in the Eastern Conference standings. With Miami struggling, the Southeast division is up for grabs as these two teams are separated by just half a game and are currently sitting as the 7th and 8th seed. The Magic have shown flashes of being a legitimate playoff contender, they even started the season as a top 3 team in the east. Their biggest challenge has been the ability to stay healthy and it’s held them back. Now, with Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner  back at full strength, Orlando is in a position to make a push for the second half of the season. Atlanta has been a wild card this season. They’ve had stretches wherein they’ve looked really good, beating some of the top teams. However, their recent moves trading away De’Andre Hunter and Bogdan Bogdanovic —raises questions about their depth. Trae Young remains the focal point, but the supporting cast will need to step up against a well-rested Orlando squad. Betting Analysis & Prediction The Magic hold an advantage in tomorrow’s match-up. Pairing that with Atlanta’s defensive struggles and roster changes, it could make it tough for them to keep pace with a well rested and healthy Orlando squad.  Sanjay’s Pick: Orlando Magic Moneyline Current Odds: Spread: Orlando Magic -1.5 | Atlanta Hawks +1.5 Moneyline: Orlando Magic 1.85  | Atlanta Hawks 1.95 Over/Under: Over 222.5 | Under 222.5 Odds from Arena Plus. Read related article:   Lakers vs. Hornets - Picks & Odds, February 20, 2025

The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has partnered with top gaming federations to monitor and report illegal offshore betting ads. A self-regulatory advertisement organization in India is teaming up with leading online gaming industry bodies in the country to curb illegal offshore betting and gambling advertisements. The Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports (FIFS), the All India Gaming Federation (AIGF), and the E-Gaming Federation (EGF) and Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) signed a memorandum of understanding to craft a monitoring body that screens and reports misleading offshore betting ads to relevant government authorities. Consumer Protection and Industry Standards The partnership aims to protect Indians from "deceptive offshore platforms" that disguise themselves as legal gaming sites, Neil Castelino, CEO of the Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports.  “Since gambling advertisements are largely prohibited in India, their widespread circulation violates the law. ASCI is committed to flagging such ads to regulators for necessary action while ensuring that permissible gaming ads comply with ethical advertising guidelines,” Manisha Kapoor, CEO and Secretary-General of ASCI said. Tackling Illegal Gambling Ads Since January, ASCI has flagged 413 offshore betting ads to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and investigated 12 cases of potential violations of its Real Money Gaming advertising guidelines. Anuraag Saxena, CEO of the E-Gaming Federation, underscored the risks posed by illegal operators, adding that these are harmful to the gaming industry’s legitimate side. “For years, Indian consumers have fallen victim to fraudulent offshore betting platforms. These operations harm not only individuals but also the nation’s legitimate gaming industry. The formation of ASCI’s monitoring cell will significantly accelerate our efforts to create a safer and more trustworthy gaming environment.” Read related article:   China, India Drive Rising Interest In Sports Betting: Study

PAOCC intensifies crackdown on illegal POGOs in Metro Manila, investigating Pasay City officials for potential corruption. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) is currently considering legal action against local officials in Pasay City due to the ongoing operations of illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) within their jurisdiction. The agency is focusing on determining the accountability of local government units (LGUs) involved in permitting and overseeing these establishments. According to a report from the Philippine News Agency , PAOCC Spokesperson Winston Casio stated in a press briefing at Malacañang that illegal POGOs are predominantly operating in the southern areas of Metro Manila. He identified Pasay, Parañaque, and Makati as the primary locations where these illicit gaming hubs continue to function despite government crackdowns. Casio emphasized that PAOCC is actively building a case against certain LGUs within Metro Manila following a series of raids on illegal POGOs. Specifically, the commission is scrutinizing the potential liabilities of officials in Pasay City, given the multiple enforcement operations conducted in the area. “The very first raid we conducted was at Rivendell in P. Zamora, followed by Zun Yuan Technology at the corner of FB Harrison and William Street, also in Pasay. We also raided Kimberhi Technology, which operates the 3D Analyzer POGO, and more recently, a site inside the Heritage Hotel in Pasay,” Casio disclosed. He further noted that PAOCC, in coordination with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), is examining the role of Pasay LGU officials, particularly in issuing business permits and regulatory certificates through the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO). While no final decision has been made, an ongoing investigation is gathering evidence to determine possible criminal liability. Foreign POGO Workers Under Scrutiny Meanwhile, Bureau of Immigration (BI) spokesperson Dana Sandoval reported a concerning trend in which smaller groups of foreign nationals continue working for illegal POGOs operating in gated communities, condominiums, and residential areas. As of the latest count, approximately 11,254 foreign POGO workers remain in the Philippines, despite the government’s directive for them to leave following the industry’s official shutdown last year. Sandoval revealed that the majority of these workers are of Vietnamese, Chinese, Indonesian, and Burmese nationalities. “All those who have not complied with the exit requirement have been added to our derogatory records and are facing deportation charges. Upon deportation, they will also be placed on our immigration blacklist,” Sandoval stated. She clarified that these figures exclude individuals who have been involved with illegal POGOs from the beginning. The deportation measures specifically target those who were previously employed in legitimate POGOs that have since been ordered to cease operations. Citing data from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), Sandoval noted that of the 33,863 foreign nationals previously employed by registered POGOs or internet gaming licensees (IGLs), only 22,609 have officially left the country. The remaining individuals are now classified as illegal aliens. Ongoing Crackdown on Illegal POGOs Sandoval also provided updates on law enforcement efforts against illegal POGO operations, revealing that 518 foreign nationals have been arrested this year alone. These arrests stemmed from four major raids: January 8  – Parañaque City: 450 foreign nationals apprehended January 15  – Silang, Cavite: 29 foreign nationals January 17  – Parañaque City: 33 foreign nationals February 17  – Pasay City: 6 foreign nationals The PAOCC crackdown continues amid growing concerns about the negative impact of illegal POGOs on crime rates and public safety. Casio, who recently returned as PAOCC spokesperson after a temporary suspension, assured the public that his agency remains committed to rooting out illegal gaming operations and holding accountable those responsible for enabling them. Read related article :   Koreans, Filipinos Arrested in PH POGO Scam Raid

Gaming in South Asia is booming! SPiCE South Asia 2025 (March 4-6, Colombo, Sri Lanka) connects you with industry leaders. Explore trends, gain insights, and network. The gaming industry in South Asia is evolving at an exceptional pace, positioning the region as a major hub for innovation! In just two weeks, from 4 - 6 March 2025 at the prestigious Shangri-La Colombo, Sri Lanka, SPiCE South Asia 2025  will offer a valuable opportunity to gain insider insights, explore emerging trends and network with industry leaders and key decision-makers. With technological advancements and evolving consumer trends fuelling unprecedented growth, there has never been a better time to tap into South Asia’s thriving gaming industry. Regulatory landscapes are evolving, markets are expanding and competition is intensifying. To stay ahead, operators need exclusive insights into navigating these dynamic changes. READ: ACN Spotlight: Casino Plus CEO Bares Plans for Future Hotel Expansion In India, in particular, the gaming sector is skyrocketing, thanks to a surge in players and increasing investment. How can you leverage this momentum? Where’s the industry headed next? Get the insights you need at SPiCE South Asia 2025. KEY SESSIONS TO LOOK FORWARD TO: Solo Presentation:  Intellectual Property Challenges in iGaming Affiliate Marketing: Protecting Brands & Maximising Revenue by Kshitij Malhotra, Managing Partner at Global IP India. Panel Discussion: Enhancing Responsible & Safer Gaming: A Collaborative Approach Between Regulators & Operators for a More Sustainable Environment – moderated by Bhavesh Parthi (CEO, 21 M.Digital ) with panellists Satya Mahapatra, Ketan Joshi, and Navneeth Srinivas. Fireside Chat: Disrupt or Be Disrupted: Staying Competitive in the Rapidly Evolving iGaming Ecosystem – a conversation between Joe Pisano (Founder & CEO, Jade Entertainment & Gaming Technologies Inc.) and Janis Baltalksnis (Sales Lead Asia, SoftGamings). Keynote Address:  Updates on GST-Related Issues Concerning the Gaming Industry by Srinivas Kotni, Founder & Managing Partner at Lexport. Panel Discussion: Beyond the Field: Understanding the Rapid Expansion of Sports Gaming in India – moderated by Mahesh Madan Bhat (Founder, MMB Legal) with panellists Eshwar Ramachandran, Parvati Bhat, Rakesh Eligapalli, and Samir Sarkar. EVENT HIGHLIGHTS Day 1 | Tuesday, 4 March AFFILIATE DAY, WELCOMING RECEPTION Affiliate Day is all about delving into next-gen affiliate marketing strategies, harnessing AI for brand amplification, and mastering SEO in today’s competitive landscape. Industry leaders will tackle intellectual property challenges and share insider tips on selecting the best affiliate programs. The day wraps up with the highly anticipated SP’iCE’ Breaker Welcoming Reception – an ideal networking opportunity! Day 2 | Wednesday, 5 March FULL DAY CONFERENCE & EXPO, AWARDS CEREMONY Esteemed sector specialists will explore regulatory developments, responsible gaming initiatives, and the booming esports landscape. Thought-provoking fireside chats and panel discussions will uncover key strategies for staying ahead in the rapidly evolving market. Finally, the SPiCE South Asia Eventus Awards Ceremony will shine a spotlight on the region’s most groundbreaking innovators and celebrate excellence in the industry. Day 3 | Thursday, 6 March FULL DAY CONFERENCE & EXPO, NETWORKING POKER TOURNAMENT A high-impact exploration of India’s iGaming future, from evolving regulations and tax challenges to the crucial role of cultural localisation in game development. Visionaries will discuss groundbreaking partnerships, revenue-driving collaborations, and the unstoppable rise of sports gaming. The day will end on a high note with the SPiCE It Up Networking Poker Tournament! SPiCE South Asia Eventus Awards Ceremony  Celebrating the visionaries shaping the future of iGaming – those driving innovation, setting new benchmarks, and leading the industry forward. Know a game-changer? Nominate them now: https://lnkd.in/dU7PMEyi LIMITED TIME LEFT –  Secure Your Spot at SPiCE South Asia 2025 Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to step into the driver’s seat of industry evolution! Register today : https://www.spiceseries.com/ssa Want to stay up-to-date on the latest events in gaming? Check out our events calendar here .   Read related article:   Macau's CNY 2024 Gaming Revenue Fails to Reach 2019 Levels

Despite holding resident visas, six Koreans arrested in a Pasay City scam hub face deportation after being caught in illegal operations. Despite holding various resident visas, the six Korean nationals arrested for allegedly running an illegal offshore gaming operation and scam hub in a Pasay City hotel basement will face immigration charges, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) revealed Tuesday. While some of the arrested individuals presented seemingly valid visas, including a 9G pre-arranged employment visa and several resident visas, these documents do not exempt them from potential violations of the Philippine Immigration Act. BI Fugitive Search Unit Chief Rendel Ryan Sy explained that even with valid resident visas, if individuals are caught engaging in illegal activities, their visas can be revoked, and they can be deported. POGOs are currently illegal in the Philippines, following an order from president Ferdinand Marcos Jr.  “Kahit anong visang hawak nila dito, kahit may resident visa sila, given na nahuli natin na may ginagawa silang violation dito. Maari pong marevoke yung kanilang visa at madeport sila,” Sy stated, as reported by GMA News.  (Even if they have resident visas, given that we caught them doing violations, we can still revoke their visas and deport them.)  One of the Koreans arrested was already on the BI’s blacklist since 2023 for overstaying, and another presented a 9G visa that was issued for a different company, raising further questions about their legal status. The remaining individuals held different resident visas. The arrested Koreans will undergo immigration inquest proceedings for these violations. This is in addition to the potential criminal charges they may face following the investigation by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). PAOCC and the PNP-CIDG have secured a warrant to search and examine data from computers and gadgets seized during the raid, including hundreds of OTP generators and USBs suspected of containing cryptocurrency wallets. PAOCC agents revealed that the scammers were targeting cryptocurrency, potentially stealing funds by obtaining seed phrases. The investigation will also extend to the hotel management where the illegal operation was being run. PAOCC Executive Director Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz questioned how the group was able to operate within the hotel and warned that the hotel could face criminal charges if they refuse to cooperate with the investigation. Cruz also indicated that PAOCC will recommend the closure of the hotel. Cruz emphasized the need for vigilance among hotels and other establishments, stating: “This will serve as a warning also to other hotels. They should look into sa mga umuupa sa kanila . Kasi they cannot just say na nagulat na lang kami na ganito pala yung ginagawa nila.”  (This will serve as a warning also to other hotels. They should look into those renting from them. Because they cannot say ‘We were surprised over what they were doing.”) Read related article :   Koreans, Filipinos Arrested in PH POGO Scam Raid

B2B gaming solutions provider Incentive Games names Ahmed Baker Chief Commercial Officer.  Incentive Games, a leading provider of B2B gaming solutions specializing in player acquisition and retention, is excited to announce the appointment of Ahmed Baker as Chief Commercial Officer, effective Monday, 17th February. With over 20 years of experience in the iGaming industry, Baker has a proven track record of translating high-level strategy into actionable growth. His experience spans both B2B and B2C sectors, where he has consistently driven success. Baker's expertise in commercial strategy and business development will be essential as Incentive Games continues to expand its Real Money Games portfolio. John Gordon, CEO of Incentive Games  said, "We are thrilled to welcome Ahmed to the executive team. His experience, strategic vision, and proven ability to drive growth make Ahmed a perfect fit for our new Chief Commercial Officer. We are confident that he will be key to our continued success.”   Baker said, "I’m thrilled to join Incentive Games at such an exciting time. I look forward to contributing to the growth of the company and working with the team to replicate the success of their free-to-play games in the Real Money space" Read related article:   SAGSE Latam 2025: Connecting Global Firms to Latin America

Pay4Fun at SBC Rio 2025: Payment innovation, networking, and thought leadership. Visit booth A05 and join their panel discussion. Pay4Fun is set to be a key presence at SBC Rio 2025, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and leadership in the payment industry. During the event, attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about Pay4Fun, engage with the team, and explore new business opportunities. Pay4Fun celebrates its recent achievements in the industry. The company was recognized at the SBC Awards 2024 with the "Payment Innovation of the Year" award, solidifying its position as a leader in financial solutions. Additionally, it received the "Employer of the Year" title at the SBC Latinoamérica Awards 2024, standing out as one of the best companies to work for in the iGaming industry. Visitors to SBC Rio can enjoy the Pay4Fun Catering & Refreshment Area, located at A05. This space is designed to foster interaction and idea exchange among industry professionals. In addition to discussions on innovative solutions and future partnerships, the area will offer beverages and appetizers to enhance the overall experience. On February 26 at 11 AM, Pay4Fun CEO Leonardo Baptista will participate in a special panel discussion on “Payments Landscape: Key Guidelines and Opportunities.” The debate will cover industry trends, regulatory challenges, and opportunities for financial operations in the betting market. Pay4Fun invites all attendees to visit its space at A05 to meet the team, discover innovative solutions, and strengthen industry connections. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with the leaders of the payment industry at SBC Rio! Read related article:   Kiron’s Crash Games Set To Take SBC Summit Rio By The Horns