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Senator Risa Hontiveros gives the Bureau of Immigration 15 days to explain the alleged escape of Alice Guo, criticizing the agency’s ‘hands-off approach’ and lack of an internal probe. Senator Risa Hontiveros has given Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado 15 days to provide clear answers about the alleged escape of Alice Guo and her associates from the Philippines. In a hearing on March 4, Hontiveros expressed growing frustration with what she called the "hands-off approach" of the Immigration Bureau in investigating the matter. She noted that the BI appears to be waiting for information from other countries rather than conducting its own thorough internal probe. “Because if we just stop at this status, we’re inutile as a country. It’s been four months, and we still don’t know how fugitives managed to slip past our borders undetected?” Hontiveros said.  Alice Guo, a former mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, is currently being investigated for her ties to offshore gaming while assuming power as a local executive.  How did Alice Guo?  Alice Guo's departure from the Philippines in July 2024 involved conflicting accounts, initially suggesting air travel to Malaysia, but later revealed by Guo herself to be a sea escape via yacht and smaller boats, eventually reaching Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Despite an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order, she successfully left the country, raising questions about border control. After being apprehended by Indonesian authorities in September 2024, she was deported back to the Philippines and taken into custody, with her return sparking criticism regarding her official reception. If the BI fails to provide satisfactory answers within the 15-day period, Hontiveros hinted at possible Senate action, including recommendations for leadership changes within the agency. The Immigration Commissioner's office has acknowledged receipt of the senator's demand but has not yet issued an official response. The Alice Guo case continues to test the government's commitment to transparency and accountability in law enforcement and border control operations. Read related article:   Philippine Police Tighten Watch vs. POGOs

Pelicans vs. Raptors betting preview: Can Zion Williamson and the Pelicans cover the spread against a hot Toronto team? Get the latest odds, injury updates, and expert betting predictions for this key matchup. The Pelicans are visiting Scotiabank Arena for a showdown with the Toronto Raptors. The Raptors have been hot, winning 5 of their last 6 matchups, with their only loss coming to the Milwaukee Bucks. The Pelicans, on the other hand, are 4-2 in their last 6 matchups, coming off back-to-back losses against the Grizzlies and Hornets after riding a 4-game win streak, their longest of the season. Both teams have had trouble staying healthy this season, with a number of injuries to key players. For the Pelicans, they have missed Zion Williamson for most of the year, and Brandon Ingram has yet to see action since going out with an injury on December 8th. The Raptors, meanwhile, have dealt with injuries to Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley, their two best offensive w eapons. However, the Pelicans have looked much better since the return of Zion Williamson, giving them an inside-out threat with the combo of McCollum and Dejounte Murray in the backcourt. After suffering back-to-back blowout losses, I see the Pelicans bouncing back tomorrow against the Raptors. I believe they have the better roster and the upper hand in this matchup, and they should have their way against a below-average defensive team in Toronto. Odds: Spread: New Orleans -1.0 | Toronto Raptors +1.0 Moneyline: New Orleans 1.85 | Toronto Raptors 1.95 Over/Under: Over 232.5 | Under 232.5 (Odds from Arena Plus.) Hot Trends: New Orleans is 4-1 against the spread (ATS) in their last 5 games against an Eastern Conference Team. New Orleans is 7-2 against the spread (ATS) in their last 9 games vs Toronto. Sanjay’s pick: New Orleans Pelicans+1.5 Read related article:  DigiPlus Responds To Report On Buying Casino Plus

Macau gaming operator lays off local employees without explanation, sparking concerns over job security, corporate responsibility, and government oversight. Six local workers from a Macau casino company's office staff asked lawmakers for help after getting fired without warning on February 28th, according to a Chinese language report by   allinmedia .   The company did not tell them why they lost their jobs, nor did they offer other positions, lawmaker Lam U Tou claimed.  The fired workers said other departments in the company are also cutting jobs. Rumors that the government secretly allowed casino companies to cut staff also spread. Five of Macau's six casino companies have started firing non-gaming workers, with only one company not yet making cuts. For Lam, the company broke its duty to support local jobs. He also urged the government to look into the matter and help get the workers their jobs back. How are Macau’s casinos currently faring out? Macau's casino earnings have fallen recently. In December 2024, casinos made PHP 131.7 billion (MOP 18.2 billion, USD 2.28 billion). This was 2% less than the same month last year.  The drop got worse in January 2025. Earnings fell to PHP 132.1 billion (MOP 18.25 billion, USD 2.286 billion), which was 5.6% lower than January 2024. Two main things caused these drops. First, Macau made stricter rules for big-spending VIP gamblers, cutting a major source of money. Second, money problems in mainland China meant fewer visitors came to Macau, and those who did spent less. Macau’s government earlier noted that their tourists have become more diverse , especially during the holiday season.  While this is the case, analysts are projecting a recovery amid the Lunar New Year celebrations.  Jobs Shrinking Despite Casino Recovery Lam pointed out that while tourists and gamblers are coming back to Macau after COVID, the rest of the local economy is still having problems. Small businesses are struggling, and jobs for local people are getting harder to find. Casino companies are making money again, yet they still had over 27,000 non-resident workers as of June 2024. Lam believes it's wrong for these companies to fire local workers while keeping so many foreign staff. Lam says these firings set a bad example and make Macau's job market even worse. He wants the government to step in right away, study what's happening, and explain why casino companies can fire local workers without finding them new roles. Read related article:  ‘Macau Casino Outlook Tied to Chinese Economy’

Belle Corporation denies plans to acquire Melco’s stake in City of Dreams Manila, countering recent news reports. Belle Corporation has made it clear they have no plans to buy Melco Resorts & Entertainment's stake in City of Dreams Manila any time soon. This comes in response to a Philippine Stock Exchange request for details about a  news report . What Is Melco Planning For City of Dreams?  An Inquirer.net column suggested that Melco might be planning to leave the Philippines and shift into an “asset-light” approach. The “unnamed source” in the report said Belle would buy if “the price is right.”  Analysts earlier suggested for Melco to sell its City of Dreams   property in the Philippines so it could focus on an expansion in Thailand. Melco is among the throngs of casino giants considering an investment at the Land of Smiles. While this has been said, Melco, over the weekend also maintained that it has not decided on any “strategic alternative” regarding these properties. “Melco does not intend to comment on or provide updates in relation to this process unless and until it determines that further disclosure is appropriate or required,” its statement, filed in NASDAQ, read.  Belle Corporation Role With City of Dreams Manila Belle owns the land and buildings where City of Dreams Manila sits. They rent this property to Melco Resorts & Entertainment, who runs the casino resort. Belle collects rent money from this deal. Belle also owns a company called Premium Leisure and Amusement Inc. (PLAI). This company has a license from PAGCOR (the Philippine gaming regulator) that gives Belle the right to get a share of the money made from casino games. This is the set up for a lot of casino deals in the Philippines.  Belle’s Response In a filing , Belle stated they "cannot confirm" if Melco plans to leave the Philippines. They also clarified that buying Melco’s stake "is not part of Belle’s plans for now." Their statement directly disputes the news report’s claims. According to Belle in their filing, "Please be advised that while Belle is not in a position to confirm the accuracy of the statements about a possible exit of Melco from the Philippines, it can confirm that any buy-out of Melco’s interests in COD Manila is not part of Belle’s plans for the immediate future.”  What It Means Belle’s wording suggests they aren’t looking to take over Melco’s business at this time. However, they haven’t ruled it out for the future. If a deal happens, it would require approval from PAGCOR and other regulators.   Belle wants to shut down rumors and make it clear they have no immediate plans for major casino deals. Investors should note that Belle’s position contradicts the news report. Read related article:   Melco Urged to Sell Philippines, Cyprus Properties

Thailand has revised its casino policy, removing the P78 million (50 million baht, USD 1.5 million) deposit rule for locals. Instead, citizens must show a three-year tax history to enter. After pushback from investors, Thailand has decided to change the rules about who can enter its proposed casinos.  Thailand’s initial proposal said locals needed to have at least PHP78,750,000 (around 50 million baht, or $1.5 million USD) saved in a bank in order to enter. Now, they must show they have paid taxes for three years. The PHP 7,875 (about 5,000 baht, or USD 15) fee to get in is still required. This change has led to much discussion among experts and the public. Some people think it's a good move, as it allows for regulated gambling. Others are concerned about the possible negative effects on society. Here's a look at the reasons for the rule change, its potential economic impact, and the concerns people have. Why the Rules Were Adjusted The original rule, which required a large amount of savings, was seen as too restrictive. The government claimed that only a small number of people in Thailand had that much money. The government worried that this would push many people to gamble illegally, which is a widespread problem. “The Ministry has checked the data and found there are only 10,000 Thai accounts with at least 50 million baht. So, the former requirement would push people to gamble elsewhere, which could be illegal,” Deputy Prime Minister Julapun Amornivat shared.  Officials believe that requiring a tax history is a better way to ensure that casino visitors have a stable financial background.  What This Means For The Economy, Businesses Currently, gambling in Thailand is illegal. But the government recently approved the establishment of casinos within entertainment complexes, citing its capacity as a tourist powerhouse in Southeast Asia. The proposed casinos plan to help Thailand recover financially.  A report indicates that a significant portion of Thai adults would likely gamble if casinos were legalized. This could position Thailand among the top gambling markets globally. The exorbitant fees, however, caused concerns for major casino operators, like Genting Singapore. They claimed they would need to limit their investments if most locals were excluded. The new policy could alleviate these concerns, making Thailand a more appealing location for casino development. Furthermore, this change could stimulate tourism. Many tourists from China and other Southeast Asian countries travel to gamble in nearby countries like Cambodia and Singapore. A well-regulated casino industry in Thailand could generate substantial revenue each year, according to study.  Legal Processes and Public Opinion The policy still has to go through review before it becomes an official law. As it stands, the Council of State is currently reviewing the amendment, and the cabinet will make the final decision. Conservative groups strongly oppose the policy. They argue that casinos will harm society and clash with religious values. Organizations such as: The Network of Students and People for Thailand’s Reform The Centre of People for the Protection of the Monarchy The Dharma Army have publicly voiced their concerns. A recent opinion poll shows that many Thai citizens oppose casino legalization. However, proponents argue that proper regulation and taxation will yield economic benefits and reduce illegal gambling. Read related article:   Thailand's Casino Plans Worry Philippine Gaming Chief

Join gaming professionals and industry leaders at ICE Barcelona 2025 which will take place at Fira Barcelona Gran Via in Spain from January 20–22, 2025. Simon Thomas, Executive Chairman of London's renowned Hippodrome Casino, has identified three pivotal trends set to dominate discussions at ICE Barcelona: sustainability, artificial intelligence (AI), and the convergence of online and land-based gaming.  In the realm of sustainability, the gaming industry is increasingly focusing on environmental responsibility. This commitment is evident through initiatives such as energy-efficient gaming machines and the pursuit of green certifications for venues. This shift is driven not only by corporate responsibility but also by growing demands from players and stakeholders for more eco-friendly operations.  Artificial intelligence is playing a transformative role in the industry. AI is being utilized to create safer gaming environments and develop more engaging gaming solutions for customers. Applications of AI include refining customer personalization, optimizing staff placement, and enhancing responsible gaming practices.  The convergence of online and land-based gaming is becoming more pronounced as operators strive to offer seamless transitions between physical and digital gaming experiences. This integration aims to appeal to a broader demographic, reflecting a significant shift in the industry's approach to meeting diverse player preferences.  Looking forward to ICE Barcelona, Thomas expressed enthusiasm about the event's new location. He noted that Barcelona's vibrant culture and global appeal align perfectly with ICE's international reach, providing an inspiring backdrop for attendees. He anticipates that the city's dynamic environment will foster fresh perspectives in networking and innovation, marking a new chapter for ICE in one of the world's most iconic locations. ICE Barcelona is scheduled to take place from January 20 to 22, 2025, at Fira de Barcelona. As the largest and most comprehensive event for the B2B gaming industry, it offers unparalleled opportunities for gaming professionals to connect, discover market-specific insights, and gain a competitive edge in the evolving gaming landscape.  The event will cover a wide range of sectors across the gaming world, including casino and games, esports, sports betting, payments, regulation technology, and platforms. Attendees can expect to explore the latest trends, see the newest games and products, and network with key players driving the industry forward.  In addition to the main exhibition, ICE Barcelona will feature specialized zones such as the Growth Markets Zone, focusing on emerging opportunities in key growth markets like Latin America and Africa. This area will provide a platform to connect with businesses and gain insights specific to these regions.  The agenda also includes seminars and workshops on various topics, including the use of AI in the casino industry. Sessions will explore how AI is reshaping operations, enhancing player engagement, and driving profitability, providing leaders with powerful tools to navigate the complex gaming environment. As the global gaming industry continues to expand, ICE Barcelona 2025 aims to redefine B2B gaming by offering new opportunities for professionals to connect, innovate, and stay ahead of industry trends. The event's relocation to Barcelona underscores its commitment to providing a dynamic and inspiring environment for the gaming community.  Gambling professionals attending ICE Barcelona will have the opportunity to explore the biggest ever edition of the show comprising 120,000 square meters (sqm) of space compared to the 100,000 sqm at ICE 2024. Fira Gran Via Barcelona will be home to the industry’s best ever line-up of exhibitors including  the world’s biggest and most respected innovator brands from every gambling vertical.  The industry’s leading trade associations, strategic bodies, regulators, CEOs of tier-1 operators and games creators will all be at Barcelona in record-breaking numbers underlining the show’s reputation for being the ‘Davos of Gambling’. For more information on the world’s biggest gaming technology event and to register: https://www.icegaming.com Read related article: ICE Barcelona to Honor Gaming Innovators at Landmark Awards 2025

Join the most influential gaming industry professionals from around the world when ICE Barcelona takes place at Fira Barcelona Gran Via in Spain from January 20–22, 2025. ICE Barcelona 2025 in Spain will bring together gaming experts from all sectors to explore new business and collaboration opportunities, with more than 164 countries represented at the show. One of the highlights of this event is the 2025 ICE Landmark Awards which will recognise the industry’s innovators, creators, entrepreneurs, pioneers and personalities. Clarion Gaming, organizers of the ICE Barcelona 2025, has confirmed that it will be making its unique Landmark Awards to winners on the show floor at ICE Barcelona. Following their Introduction in 2019, the Awards have recognised outstanding or milestone achievements and recipients have included the innovators, the games creators, the entrepreneurs, the pioneers and the personalities that make the international gambling industry so unique. The awards recognise people and organisations with a milestone achievement or landmark over the previous 12 months.  Clarion Gaming Managing Director Stuart Hunter said about their Landmark Awards: “We felt that there was a place for a totally original Awards program which was accessible, open to everyone in the industry and recognised a very significant milestone or achievement. Since their introduction, Landmark Awards have been made in recognition of the fund-raising achievements of industry charities, to businesses for their commitment to sustainability, to individuals and companies for their especially long-service and to those organisations which have raised the bar in terms of nurturing safer or sustainable gambling.” He added: “ICE Barcelona will be the greatest gathering of gaming professionals ever and it is totally appropriate that the Landmark achievements of the industry are recognised in this way on the show floor.” The exhibition floor will host more than 630+ global exhibitors, showcasing the most innovative products and services across all sectors of the gaming industry. From land-based solutions to new digital platforms, the event will feature the full spectrum of gaming technology. Gambling professionals attending ICE Barcelona will have the opportunity to explore the biggest ever edition of the show comprising 120,000 square meters (sqm) of space compared to the 100,000 sqm at ICE 2024. Fira Gran Via Barcelona will be home to the industry’s best ever line-up of exhibitors including the world’s biggest and most respected innovator brands from every gambling vertical.  The industry’s leading trade associations, strategic bodies, regulators, CEOs of tier-1 operators and games creators will all be at Barcelona in record-breaking numbers underlining the show’s reputation for being the “Davos of Gambling.” For more information on the world’s biggest gaming technology event, visit https://www.icegaming.com Register for ICE Barcelona here  for the chance to engage with leaders, decision makers and regulators across all gaming sectors and verticals.  Read related article: Pronet Gaming sets its sights on ICE Barcelona 2025

Don’t miss BiG Africa Summit 2025 in Botswana from February 17-20, 2025. Discover the latest in iGaming, AI, mobile betting, and more at this premier event. In just 10 weeks, the BiG Africa Summit returns for its 11th annual edition – this time in Gaborone, Botswana, from 17 - 20 February 2025. Hosted by Eventus International, this prestigious, four-day event will bring together visionaries and senior decision-makers from Africa’s iGaming sector and beyond, all while showcasing Botswana’s exciting transformation into a thriving hub for the industry. With new licenses sparking unprecedented growth in the region, this is the moment to explore the future of iGaming across the continent. The BiG Africa Summit 2025 will kick off with hands-on workshops exploring affiliate strategies and key legal issues, followed by a vibrant welcoming networking reception. Day 2 will dive into high-impact discussions on harmonising regulations, responsible gaming, and the latest payment innovations, paired with dynamic presentations and ample networking opportunities. Day 3 will take a closer look at cutting-edge topics like AI in sports betting, digital casinos, and the rise of mobile betting and fantasy sports, and then finally on Day 4, the summit will wrap up with an unforgettable excursion and farewell dinner. What’s in store? Meet C-level executives, regulators, and industry experts Learn from in-depth panel discussions and impactful keynote addresses Explore innovative strategies to navigate Africa’s evolving iGaming market Build lasting connections during high-calibre networking sessions Discover exclusive solutions to stay competitive and thrive in emerging markets Get ready to meet and hear from the following industry experts: Alwin Matthews, Head of Department: Information Technology, Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board Amina Nduna, Head: Legal and Compliance, World Sports Betting Annalisa Samuels, Sales Manager Africa, Synot Games António Vitoriano Manuel, Regulator Technician, Angola Regulator Gambling Authority Dolan Beuthin, CEO/Founder, iGamingXperts Emolemo Peter Kesitilwe, CEO, Botswana Gambling Authority Gary Ralebona, Business Development Manager, Bettabets Heavens Gonga, Advisor, Lotteries & Gaming in Zimbabwe Johann Sigurdsson, Chief Commercial Officer, Bwloto Lorien Gamaroff, CEO, Centbee Mabontle Mokwebo, Head: Governance & Stakeholder Relations, ALGA Marcia-Lynn Harris, Chief Gaming Auditor, Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board Nitesh Matai, Managing Executive, Mark IT Africa Portia Gaone Diteko, Responsible Gaming Manager, Botswana Gambling Authority Riaan van Rooyen, CEO, Aria International Tumelo Mokoena, Assistant Manager: Advocacy and Communications, South African Responsible Gambling Foundation Zoe Siwa, Chief Financial Officer, Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board AND MANY MORE! Don’t miss these hot topics: Harmonising Gaming Regulations Across Africa: Opportunities and Challenges  The Importance of Creating a Gender-Inclusive Gaming Industry Emerging Payment Solutions: Cryptocurrencies and Alternative Payment Gateways in Africa Betting  Modernising the African Lottery: Insights from Regulators, Operators, and Suppliers The Role of AI and Machine Learning in Sports Betting: How Advanced Technologies Can Optimise Betting Decisions and Enhance User Experience Secure your place at Africa’s premier iGaming event by registering at https://www.bigafricasummit.com/    Read related article: SAGSE Latam 2025: Connecting Global Firms to Latin America

SBC Summit Rio 2025 will take place from February 25-27, 2025 at Riocentro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. SBC is raising the bar with Brazilian DJ megastar Alok headlining the unmissable INFINITY Rio party on February 27, 2025 at SBC Summit Rio 2025. The sports betting and iGaming event will take place from February 25-27, 2025 at Riocentro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Building on the incredible success of the first INFINITY edition in Lisbon, Alok’s world-class talent, global fame, and electrifying sets will ensure yet another unforgettable night of high-energy music, creating an extraordinary closing experience as the industry’s biggest party, INFINITY, makes its Brazilian debut in Rio. Rasmus Sojmark, CEO & Founder of SBC, said: "Having Alok, one of the most listened-to Brazilian artists and one of the most followed electronic stars, headlining INFINITY Rio demonstrates the size and scale of SBC Summit Rio. Our delegates are in for a true Tomorrowland experience, blending business networking with genuine world-class entertainment." The Riocentro Super Stage, a fresh addition to SBC Summit Rio, will shed its conference atmosphere to host the party, with Alok 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. And with Alok’s performance, there’s no better way to kick off the party,” Sojmark added. Alok has roots in a family of musical pioneers—his parents, Ekanta and Swarup, are psytrance legends—which has helped him become a global name through the combination of Brazilian rhythms with innovative electronic dance music (EDM). His breakout single ‘Hear Me Now’, created alongside Bruno Martini and Zeeba, has racked up nearly 800 million streams on Spotify alone. Recognized as a leading force in the Brazilian Bass genre, Alok’s powerful basslines and infectious beats have earned him consistent recognition as one of the world’s top DJs. Ranked 4th in DJ Mag’s Top 100 for three consecutive years (2021-2023), he remains a major force in the EDM world. The DJ’s success goes beyond just his chart-topping music. With nearly 30 million monthly listeners on Spotify and 30 million Instagram followers, he has become a worldwide phenomenon. He has headlined some of the biggest festivals, including Tomorrowland, Ultra Music Festival, and Lollapalooza, and has collaborated with renowned artists such as Dua Lipa, Jason Derulo and Ed Sheeran.  In addition to his music, Alok has left his mark on popular culture by becoming a character in the popular battle royale game, Garena Free Fire. His impact on the industry has earned him spots on several prestigious charts, including Billboard’s Dance 100, Forbes Brazil’s 30 Most Influential Brazilians, and Spotify’s Top 100 Global. Aside from his career, Alok is deeply committed to philanthropy. He founded the Alok Institute, which focuses on supporting education, environmental conservation, and social causes in Brazil. As Alok himself said: "Giving is the very purpose of life, and what makes me the happiest." His efforts to give back extend to the music industry as well—he founded Controversia Records, a sub-label of Spinnin' Records, and UP Club Records to promote emerging talent.  Sojmark believes that Alok is the perfect act to headline SBC’s second INFINITY: "The INFINITY brand was born in Lisbon, where we hosted our very first EDM-style festival concert featuring big names like Don Diablo, Miss Monique and Darude and the energy that night proved we had created something special. That success confirmed we’re on track, and now INFINITY Rio is taking it to the next level, with star talent like Alok leading the charge and setting a new standard for industry events." 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 centers, 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: SBC Summit Rio 2025 to Triple in Size with Move to Riocentro

SBC Summit Rio 2025 will take place from February 25-27, 2025 at Riocentro, Latin America's largest convention center, attracting 15,000 attendees. In only its second year, SBC Summit Rio will return in 2025 with a bold move to Riocentro, the largest convention center in Latin America, a testament to its phenomenal debut last March. The 2025 edition of the event is projected to attract 15,000 attendees, including 6,000 operators and 1,500 affiliates, highlighting its swift emergence as the go-to event for industry professionals eager to explore the vast opportunities within the Brazilian gambling market. Scheduled for February 25-27, 2025 , the summit is strategically timed to flow into Rio’s iconic carnival, providing international attendees with an extraordinary cultural experience. The expanded venue enabled SBC to increase its exhibitor and sponsor count to 400 while introducing two new concurrent events. After debuting at this year’s SBC Summit in Lisbon, the Affiliate Leaders Summit and Payment Expert Summit will also be featured at SBC Summit Rio, this time with a sharper geographic focus. Each summit will have its own dedicated space on the exhibition floor and conference stages, ensuring a more focused and efficient experience. Rasmus Sojmark, CEO & Founder of SBC, said: "SBC Summit Rio will be the most significant and largest event in Brazil’s gaming and sports betting industry.  "It's the first major event following Brazil’s new licensing and regulation changes, and only in its second year of running, it's relocating to Latin America's largest convention center, with attendance expected to triple. The possibilities here are endless, and if you want a piece of the pie, you really cannot afford to miss it." Relocating SBC Summit Rio to Riocentro was a decision influenced not only by the need for additional space but also by the venue's outstanding facilities and its legacy as a host of prestigious events like the Olympics. The summit will occupy 70,000 square meters, featuring the renowned Amphitheatre for the Super Stage, which will host keynote sessions, and a festival-style closing party, INFINITY Rio, along with a sprawling 40,000-square-meter exhibition floor. Nestled in the Barra da Tijuca district, known for its beaches, shopping hubs, and exceptional dining, Riocentro combines premier facilities with an inviting setting. Attendees will also find convenience in the adjacent 4-star, 360-room Lagune Barra Hotel or one of the 15 nearby 4-star hotels within walking distance. On the conference side, the agenda promises a deep, immersive dive into Brazil’s rapidly changing gambling landscape, guided by a stellar lineup of over 250 expert speakers. It will attract top-tier speakers from leading operators, affiliates, regulators, payment providers, game studios, influencers, and sports team representatives, offering a blend of high-level thought leadership, cutting-edge tech insights, and strategic market analysis. Several prominent industry leaders are set to appear at the event, including Alex Fonseca, CEO Brazil at Superbet; Andre Gelfi, Managing Partner Brazil at Betsson and President of the Instituto Brasileiro de Jogo Responsável (IBJR); Bruno Guilherme, CEO of Viradabet; Fernando Garita, CEO of Betsul; Fellipe Fraga, Chief Business Officer at Estrelabet; Iuri Castro, a specialist in lottery and betting regulation; Ludovico Calvi, Honorary President of United Lotteries for Integrity in Sports (ULIS); Livia Troise, CEO of Betmais; Marcos Sabiá, CEO of Galera.bet ; Monara Shainny, CEO of Segurobet; and Paula Braytne, Chief Compliance Officer at Galera.bet . Attendees will engage with the most pressing topic—regulation—as they explore the latest gambling laws and the strategic moves reshaping the market. The conference will also cover how AI (artificial intelligence) can strengthen brands, the importance of ethical and localized marketing, and the evolving payment systems critical to success.  Offering a perfect mix of business and entertainment, the evening networking events will be hosted in iconic locations. A key highlight is the exclusive party at Estádio Olímpico Nilton Santos, Botafogo’s legendary home, providing guests the opportunity to network while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of a world-class football stadium. "This event is all about bringing together top executives from Brazil and beyond to shape the future of the industry in this amazing country. Our gatherings are famous for attracting key decision-makers, and with the market still in its early stages, the opportunity to connect with these leaders can be a real game changer," Sojmark added. Want to exhibit or sponsor the event? Send an email to sales@sbcgaming.com or submit your interest through this form .  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 Affiliates  and operators —apply for a complimentary pass.  Read related article: SAGSE Latam 2025: Connecting Global Firms to Latin America

One week to go until iGaming leaders meet at the 5th annual Cyprus Gaming Show to be held from 23-24 October 2024 at the Hilton Nicosia. The iGaming industry is exponentially expanding in Europe, with the continent generating a total of €8.2 billion Euros (US$8.9 billion) in recent years, and is forecast to increase to €126.3 billion Euros (US$137.6 billion) by 2026. This presents an immense opportunity for investments. This is attributed to a mature and sophisticated regulatory environment. Cyprus has a rich, thriving iGaming market that continues to flourish, as it is a jurisdiction known for its favourable regulatory environment, strategic location, tax advantages, skilled workforce, and growing ecosystem – promising meaningful and valuable connections between industry leaders, suppliers, regulators and the like. Those who attend CGS 2024 can expect to meet with international industry leaders as this event continues to be one of the most engaging Gaming events in the region. The 5th annual Cyprus Gaming Show will be held from 23-24 October 2024, at the Hilton Nicosia, meaning that there is one week left to seize the opportunity to attend. Topics to be discussed include: Level Up Your Marketing Game: Conquering Data Privacy & Compliance in the iGaming Arena. This topic will highlight effective ways to reach players, from trialed and tested methods, along with sharing best practice tips from case studies. Blockchain in iGaming: Disrupting the Industry, Maximising Value, Minimising Risk: Exploring Cross-Industry Collaboration for a Sustainable iGaming Future. Learn about the latest innovations, benefits and implementations of blockchain in a practical way that assists in sustainability and security. Best practices to effectively target new markets for long-term success – gain insights on localisation and effective messaging strategies to expand into new markets. If you have not already taken the opportunity to register for this event – there is still time. Registration can be completed at the following link: https://www.eventus-international.com/cgs-card-rego . Read related article: What’s next for iGaming? Find out at the 2024 Cyprus Gaming Show

SiGMA Europe 2024 will take place at the Mediterranean Maritime Hub in Malta from November 11-14, 2024. This November, Slotegrator  will take part at the biggest exhibition in the gambling industry — SiGMA Europe 2024 , which will take place in Malta from November 11-14, 2024. You can find the company’s representatives at booth 1094. The exhibition will serve as a networking hub for over 25,000 exhibitors, including 6,500 operators and affiliates, top gaming and payment solution providers, regulators, and investors. SiGMA Europe offers a distinctive opportunity for the iGaming industry to exchange experiences and build connections. The event will be held at the Mediterranean Maritime Hub and will bring together experts across the globe. It is an ideal venue for staying abreast of the latest trends and exploring new avenues for business growth. Slotegrator will showcase its industry-leading solutions at the exhibition, including Telegram Casino, an innovative alternative to the classic online casino frontend. Additionally, the company will be showcasing their turnkey casino platform, as well as their capabilities in game and payment system integration. At booth 1094, Slotegrator will discuss their products and potential opportunities. Additionally, they offer the option of scheduling an appointment in advance to address any inquiries from companies. Slotegrator aims to meet partners, clients, and new acquaintances at SiGMA Europe 2024. Since 2012, Slotegrator has been one of the iGaming industry’s leading software and business solution providers for online casino and sportsbook operators. The company’s main focus is software development and support for online casino platforms, as well as the integration of game content and payment systems. The company works with licensed game developers and offers a vast portfolio of casino content: slots, live casino games, poker, virtual sports, table games, lotteries, casual games, and data feeds for betting. Slotegrator also provides consulting services in gambling license acquisition and business incorporation.