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While global incidents decreased, a report said Asia remains a hotspot for matchfixing accounting for 50 % of suspicious matches. Sportradar's annual Integrity Report for 2024 paints a complex picture of the global fight against match-fixing. While the report highlights a decrease in suspicious matches worldwide, Asia remains a significant concern, accounting for a staggering 50% of all detected incidents.  The report, acquired by Asia Casino News upon its January 10 release, reveals a global reduction in suspicious matches, with Europe experiencing the most substantial improvement despite registering the highest number of what Sportsradar described as “suspicious matches” anew. According to the report, Europe logged 439 matches, which is 229 less than the previous year.  As stated in the report, "Asia and North America largely maintained the previous year's levels, with each region seeing a slight rise of eight matches." This stability at a high level in Asia is cause for concern. While soccer remains the most affected sport globally, with 721 suspicious matches detected, the geographical distribution of match-fixing is evolving.  "As in 2023, Asia was the most targeted region as it accounted for 50% of all suspicious matches," the report states, emphasizing the continued vulnerability of Asian sporting events. This figure, while a slight decrease from 53% in 2023, still highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions in the region. Sportradar's involvement in key events across the globe showcases their commitment to combating match-fixing. In Asia, they played a crucial role in safeguarding the AFC Asian Cup 2023. “Working alongside the AFC, we delivered a range of services including risk assessment, live monitoring, and intelligence support throughout the tournament,” the report highlights. This proactive approach is essential in mitigating the risks of match manipulation. Despite global efforts and successes in some regions, the situation in Asia remains a pressing issue. The report’s findings serve as a stark reminder of the continuous need for vigilance, robust monitoring systems, and collaborative efforts to tackle the complex problem of match-fixing in Asia. Sportradar's ongoing work with various sporting bodies and their commitment to developing their services offers a glimmer of hope in this ongoing battle for sports integrity. Read related article:   China, India Drive Rising Interest In Sports Betting: Study

Singapore has blocked 3,800 illegal gambling sites & $37M in transactions as of Dec 31, 2024. Singapore has blocked over 3,800 illegal gambling websites and approximately $37 million in related transactions as of December 31, 2024. Authorities are attempting to disrupt the flow of funds to these illegal operations and mitigating their economic impact. Online gambling is currently illegal in Singapore. The city-state currently has two land-based casinos within entertainment complexes such as Resorts World Sentosa and Marina Bay Sands.  Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) revealed these figures last January 8. These measures target websites frequented by Singaporean users and represent over 145,000 individual transactions. Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam acknowledged the limitations of website blocking, stating that operators can easily create new sites. This highlights the ongoing challenge of combating illegal online gambling and its drain on the legitimate economy. The blocked $37 million represents funds diverted from regulated industries and potential tax revenue. “These blocking measures have impeded access to illegal online gambling to some extent. However, this approach is clearly not foolproof as illegal operators can easily create new websites, and we do not have the ability to know of every gambling website,” Shanmugam said.  The MHA encourages public reporting of illegal gambling platforms and related financial accounts.  The Ministry of Home Affairs indicated that it currently has no plans to allow families to request the blocking of bank accounts used by problem gamblers. The Ministry expressed its belief that existing measures are adequate, citing a consistently low and stable rate of approximately one percent for pathological and problem gambling. Read related article: Singapore Gambling Declines, But Illegal Online Betting Rises

PCSO Lotto Results and winning numbers for Thursday, January 9, 2025. Here are the complete lotto results today as released by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). Check these out to see if you won. 6/49 Super Lotto Result 6/42 Lotto Result 6D Lotto Result 3D Lotto Result 2D Lotto Result

Will Lunar New Year bring a much-needed boost to Macau's gaming industry? Despite a December decline, forecasts point to a strong January and continued recovery in 2025. Macau's gaming industry is anticipating a strong rebound in January, fueled by the Lunar New Year holiday, despite a slight dip in gross gaming revenue (GGR) in December, according to a recent report by Seaport Research Partners. Seaport predicts January's GGR will jump by 6.6 percent year-on-year and a substantial 13.3 percent month-on-month. This anticipated surge is attributed to the influx of tourists expected during the Lunar New Year celebrations, a traditionally lucrative period for Macau's casinos. December's GGR, totaling approximately MOP18.2 billion (US$2.27 billion), painted a different picture. While representing about 80 percent of the comparable 2019 level, it reflected a 2 percent year-over-year decrease and a 1.3 percent month-over-month decline. This performance fell short of Seaport's initial projection of a 5 percent year-on-year increase. Analyst Vitaly Umansky attributed December's softer performance to two key factors in a Monday report: a sluggish first three weeks and the three-day visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Macau. While this may be the case, Umansky noted a significant improvement in the final ten days of the month, with the return of higher-spending customers. Looking ahead to the first quarter of 2025, Seaport forecasts a 4.2 percent increase year-on-year and a 4 percent rise compared to the previous quarter. This projected growth, while positive, is more modest than the 6.1 percent year-on-year growth seen in the fourth quarter of 2024. Umansky explained that this is due to "more difficult" year-on-year comparisons, as the first quarter of 2024 benefited from higher VIP volumes and hold rates. The report also provided insights into market segment performance. The mass market demonstrated robust growth last year, reaching approximately 112 percent of 2019 levels. However, the recovery within the mass market was uneven. The base mass segment lagged, achieving only around 80 percent of 2019 levels, while the premium mass segment significantly outperformed, surging to 48 percent above pre-pandemic levels. In summary, while December presented a minor setback, the Macau gaming industry is optimistic about a strong January performance driven by the Lunar New Year. The differing recovery rates within the mass market highlight evolving consumer behavior and preferences, with the premium mass segment leading the charge. The projected growth for the first quarter of 2025, though moderate, indicates continued recovery and stabilization within the market. Read related article:   The 13 Hotel Gets License for Another Year - Report

Belle Corp, the developer of City of Dreams Manila is betting big on gaming in the Philippines, developing an integrated resort in Clark, Pampanga. This signals confidence in the growing domestic gaming market. Belle Corporation is betting big on the future of gaming in the Philippines, particularly in Clark, Pampanga, as the former US air base transforms into a new hub for tourism and entertainment.  In a Philippine Stock Exchange disclosure published January 9, the company announced plans to develop an integrated resort in the area, signaling its confidence in the continued growth of the domestic gaming market. In a July 2024 filing with the Philippine Stock Exchange, Belle confirmed that gaming-focused investment companies under its 98.26%-owned subsidiary, Premium Leisure Corp. (PLC), have officially applied for a gaming license from government regulators. This move underscores Belle’s strategic focus on expanding its footprint in the Philippine gaming landscape. “We remain upbeat on the Company’s growth prospects and bullish on the Philippine gaming market and its resilience despite industry headwinds,” said Belle President and CEO Armin Raquel Santos. He further added that Belle, through its gaming subsidiaries, is actively exploring and pursuing related ventures and high-growth opportunities within the gaming sector, with the goal of enhancing shareholder value and meeting its commitments to all stakeholders. Belle Corporation has been a significant player in the Philippine gaming and casino industry for years. Its involvement is primarily centered around its stake in the Entertainment City development in Manila, a large-scale gaming and entertainment complex envisioned to rival Macau and Las Vegas.  Belle’s flagship involvement is through its lease of the land and buildings housing City of Dreams Manila to Melco Resorts and Entertainment (Philippines) Corporation. While Melco operates the casino and resort, Belle benefits from lease income and also earns a share of gross gaming revenues through its majority ownership of PLC, which has an operating agreement with Melco's subsidiary, Premium Leisure and Amusement, Inc. This structure allows Belle to participate in the lucrative gaming market without directly managing casino operations. The move into Clark represents a strategic diversification for Belle. Clark has been steadily gaining traction as a new center for tourism and investment, driven by government efforts to develop the area’s infrastructure and attract businesses. The establishment of integrated resorts in Clark is seen as a key component of this strategy, aiming to attract both local and international tourists. Clark, with its proximity to Metro Manila and its existing international airport, is considered a prime location for this expansion. While the application for a gaming license is a significant step, the development of an integrated resort involves a complex process that includes securing regulatory approvals, securing financing, and completing construction.  However, Belle’s established presence in the Philippine gaming industry, coupled with its strong financial position, positions it well to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the burgeoning Clark gaming market. The company’s focus on exploring new ventures and maximizing growth opportunities within the gaming sector indicates a continued commitment to this industry as a key driver of its future success. Belle Corporation developed major tourist destinations like City of Dreams Manila and Tagaytay Highlands, encompassing both gaming and non-gaming attractions. Belle leases its integrated resort property at City of Dreams to Melco Resorts, earning both lease income and a share of gaming revenues through its majority ownership in Premium Leisure Corp. (PLC). Read related article: PH Gaming GGR Grows 37.52% to P94.61 Billion in 2024 Q3

The Philippines is hunting 21,000 foreign POGO workers refusing deportation. Inspections of hotels, resorts, & apartments are also underway. The Philippine government is intensifying its efforts to locate an estimated 21,000 foreign workers from Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) who have refused to leave the country following the crackdown on the industry. This comes after approximately 20,000 foreign POGO workers have already self-deported, according to Bureau of Immigration data. In a recent interview on ANC’s Headstart, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) head Gilbert Cruz revealed that local government units (LGUs) have reported sightings of Chinese nationals seeking accommodations in resorts, hotels, apartments, and even gated subdivisions, raising concerns about potential continued POGO operations. “They refuse to have themselves deported, and some are scattered throughout our country,” Cruz stated. He emphasized that LGUs have been contacting him with reports of Chinese nationals seeking various accommodations, potentially for business purposes. Cruz cited an instance in Northern Luzon where foreign nationals claimed they were establishing a call center. However, local authorities became suspicious when trucks carrying office and other equipment arrived even before a rental agreement was finalized, suggesting possible small-scale POGO operations. In response to these concerns, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) issued Memorandum Circular 2025 on January 2, 2025, which prohibits the proliferation of POGOs, including the non-renewal of their business licenses and permits. Cruz highlighted the challenge of monitoring these activities, noting that some POGO operations, ranging from 20 to hundreds of individuals occupying entire condo floors, operate without the knowledge of local officials. He stressed the importance of LGUs reporting any suspected small-scale POGO activities to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and DILG. To aid in identifying these operations, the PAOCC has provided tutorials to LGUs on recognizing signs of POGO activity, such as fully lit residences or floors and frequent food deliveries. Cruz also addressed the issue of Filipinos harboring these foreign workers. He clarified that since the downgrading of their working visas to tourist visas on October 15, any foreign national remaining in the country beyond their allowed stay is in violation of immigration laws, making them effectively criminals. Consequently, any Filipino found to be harboring these individuals will also face legal repercussions. The government’s intensified search and the active involvement of LGUs signal a determined effort to completely eradicate illegal POGO operations and ensure that foreign workers comply with immigration laws. The inspection of hotels, resorts, and apartments emphasizes the government's commitment to leaving no stone unturned in this operation. Meanwhile, government newswire Philippine News Agency reported that around 400 illegal aliens were arrested during a large-scale raid in an alleged POGO hub in Paranaque City.  “The order of the President (Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.) is clear. POGO workers who insist on staying in the country and violating our laws will be arrested and deported,” BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said.  Immigration authorities said this was part of their intensified campaign in hunting down POGO workers who remain in the Philippines.  Read related article: Senator Warns vs. POGOs Morphing As Other Businesses

There are 10 weeks until SPiCE South Asia 2025. Gain valuable iGaming insights & network with top decision-makers in Colombo. In only 10 weeks, Eventus International will host the highly anticipated SPiCE South Asia 2025 at the prestigious Shangri-La Colombo, Sri Lanka and ultimately pave the way for the next wave of progress in South Asia’s iGaming industry. Expect an impressive line-up of industry trailblazers, top decision-makers, and visionaries who are completely redefining the way we think about gaming. After the momentous SPiCE India & Sri Lanka Merger in 2024, 2025’s edition is sure to amplify cross-border opportunities, push boundaries, and drive the industry toward a bold new era. It’s no secret that South Asia is rapidly rising as a global force in gaming innovation, which means SPiCE South Asia 2025 is your chance to explore fresh perspectives, access invaluable industry expertise, and engage with thought leaders driving the sector forward. WHY YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO MISS OUT Network with industry leaders, regulators, and investors to explore innovations shaping the gaming landscape. Collaborate with peers, partners, and clients to unlock new business potential. Attend exclusive sessions led by thought leaders addressing current challenges and emerging trends. Stay up to date on regulatory developments essential to your success. Access the latest advancements and strategies to propel growth and capitalise on emerging opportunities. If you’re looking to build new partnerships, strengthen existing relationships, or gain actionable insights into the gaming sector, SPiCE South Asia 2025 is without a doubt a must-attend event. POSITION YOURSELF AHEAD OF THE CURVE Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to step into the driver’s seat of industry evolution. Register today to ensure your spot at the event and take advantage of early sign-up benefits. For more information and to register, visit https://www.spiceseries.com/ssa   Read related article:   Wage Delays Affect 350 at Fontana Leisure Parks and Casino

Collections from Cambodia’s gaming tax revenue reached $63.1 million, an 85 percent jump from 2023, according to government data. Cambodia's efforts to regulate and tax its gaming industry appear to be paying off after it saw a significant surge in tax revenue from casinos and “other games of chance” in 2024.  Collections from this sector reached $63.1 million, an 85 percent jump from 2023, according to data from the  Commercial Gambling Management Commission of Cambodia (CGMC), released on January 8 and reported in English by Xinhua. The CGMC expressed satisfaction with the sector's performance, stating, "Based on the figures, we can assess that the overall tax revenue from the commercial gambling sector was quite good last year." Cambodia has a long-standing association with casinos, primarily aimed at attracting foreign tourists. Historically, these establishments have been concentrated along border areas and in the coastal province of Preah Sihanouk, with only one casino operating in the capital, Phnom Penh. Casinos in Cambodia, however, have a mixed reputation in its society. While casinos have contributed to the economy, it also faced challenges related to regulation and oversight.  The recent increase in tax revenue suggests that efforts to improve management and compliance are yielding positive results. Around 195 casinos in Cambodia have operating licenses. However the CGMC noted that some of these licenses are no longer active: 15 have expired, one has been revoked, and another has been suspended. Similarly, for games of chance beyond traditional casinos, 21 operators hold licenses, but one has been canceled, and three others are currently suspended.  Gambling in Cambodia is also restricted to foreign nationals. This policy aims to mitigate potential social issues associated with gambling within the local population while maximizing the economic benefits from tourism.  Read related article:   Cambodia Plans to Expand its Integrated Resorts Market

PCSO Lotto Results and winning numbers for Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Here are the complete lotto results today as released by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). Check these out to see if you won. 6/55 Grand Lotto Result 6/45 Mega Lotto Result 4D Lotto Result 3D Lotto Result 2D Lotto Result

Fontana Resort and Country Club, situated within the Clark Freeport Zone, has been ordered to cease its operations indefinitely Clark Freeport Zone's Fontana Resort and Country Club has been ordered to cease operations indefinitely, the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) announced late night of January 7.  CDC issued a Cease-and-Desist Order (CDO) on January 6, 2025, against Fontana Development Corporation (FDC) and Fontana Resort and Country Club, Inc. (FRCCI), citing significant breaches of their contractual obligations. This closure comes amidst  controversies surrounding the resort, including recently unpaid wages to hundreds of its workers since November last year.  The order means the immediate halt of all operations within the leased area, including the 52-hectare property managed by Korea Country Club, Inc. (KCCI). This suspension will remain in effect until FDC and FRCCI fully comply with their contractual agreements with the state-owned CDC.    CDC said Fontana consistently failed to meet its financial obligations, commitments in the lease agreement, and safety regulations. These safety regulations include the Fire Code and the National Building Code. The order arrives on the heels of several controversies that have plagued Fontana in recent years. Notably, the resort has faced allegations of unpaid wages to its workers, leading to labor disputes and protests. These allegations have painted a picture of financial mismanagement and disregard for employee welfare. Fontana was embroiled in a separate controversy at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Reports surfaced that the resort had established a makeshift hospital exclusively for Chinese nationals who had contracted the virus. This revelation sparked public outrage and raised concerns about preferential treatment and potential breaches of quarantine protocols. The incident further damaged the resort's reputation and raised questions about its adherence to national health guidelines. This shutdown marks a significant development for the Clark Freeport Zone's tourism and leisure sector. The indefinite closure of Fontana Resort, compounded by its history of controversies, will undoubtedly impact local businesses and employment.  The CDC's decisive action, however, underscores the importance of adhering to contractual obligations and prioritizing public safety within the zone. The future of Fontana Resort remains uncertain, pending FDC and FRCCI's response and their ability to rectify not only the contractual violations but also the deep-seated reputational damage stemming from its past controversies. Read related article:   Wage Delays Affect 350 at Fontana Leisure Parks and Casino

Macau's LT Game and Sweden's Tangiamo join forces to distribute gaming products across Asia (including Macau and the Philippines) and Europe. Macau-based gaming company Paradise Entertainment (operating under the LT Game brand) has teamed up with Swedish gaming tech firm Tangiamo  to sell each other's products in different parts of the world, including Europe and the Philippines.  Paradise Entertainment will bring Tangiamo’s innovative offerings, such as the MultiPLAY products and iADR systems, to the Philippine gaming market, alongside other key Asian markets. Meanwhile, Tangiamo will bring LT Game's electronic gaming machines such as Mori Dice and Dragon Tiger Baccarat to Europe. In a statement, Tangiamo chief executive officer Chris Steele said they were "excited" to partner with LT Game which it described as a "recognized leader in the Asian gaming industry."  The press statement highligted the Philippines as a target for the expansion. The Philippines is home to some 51 land-based casinos, of which 38 are operated by the state-sanctioned Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation. Macau, the gaming capital of the world, is also a prime target for the distribution agreement.  Steele said LT Game's "expansive game library and strong market presence" will be important for both companies.  This reciprocal distribution agreement positions both companies for stronger global presence, with the Philippines specifically identified as a key market for Tangiamo's technology through Paradise Entertainment's distribution network.  Tangiamo, traditionally focused on developing electronic table games and dice shaker technology, has recently expanded its capabilities into the iGaming sector just last 2024. This acquisition brings with it key technologies including a Player Account Management system and a remote gaming server, enabling Tangiamo to develop and release its own online casino games. This new direction also includes a small portfolio for developing slot games and streaming services. Read related article: Experts Forecast Surge In Macau Gaming Revenue For January

Okada Manila's operator joins the International Gaming Standards Association (IGSA) as a silver member alongside industry giants like Intel and Konami. Okada Manila operator Universal Entertainment Corporation (UEC) is now a member of the International Gaming Standards Association.  UEC's logo was included in the list of current members as of January 8 as a "silver member," side by side with the likes of Intel and Konami Gaming. The formal announcement was uploaded on their LinkedIn page, past midnight of January 8 (GMT+8 time.)  Mark Pace, who heads IGSA, said the organization was “very excited” to welcome UEC, adding that their standards “can play a significant role in Universal’s growth." Primarily known as a leading Japanese developer of pachislot and pachinko machines, UEC also owns the Okada Manila integrated resort in the Philippines.  IGSA described UEC as a “leading provider of Pachislot & Pachnko machines and peripheral equipment. READ: Okada Manila Operator Halts PH Stock Exchange Listing Plans UEC'S Representative Director and President Tomohiro Okada said the operator was looking forward to participating in the research and development of the industry's electronic gaming machine systems.  “We are delighted to be a part of IGSA, and we look forward to participating in the research and development of electronic gaming machine systems in the industry,” Okada said.  READ:   Philippine Hotel Industry to Invest P250B for 40,000 Rooms IGSA works with regulators, operators, and suppliers worldwide to improve the industry and provide their members with valuable resources and strategic advantages. They develop technical standards for the global gaming industry. This will hopefully leverage UEC's operations, particularly for Okada in the Philippines, after Okada Manila experienced a significant downturn in revenue. Last October 2024, it was reported that Okada's total revenue dropped by 30.9% compared to the same period last year, reaching Php9.16 billion (approximately US$158 million). This decline was widespread across various gaming segments. Read related article: Okada Manila Reports 33.4% Revenue Drop to $142M in 3Q 2024