Infinity Gaming Magazine November 2023

InfinityGaming www.gaming-awards.com | ISSUE148

DISNEY BRAND CONFUSION

THE COST OF CYBER INSURANCE

GAMING + ARTICLES + BUSINESS+ GLOBAL + ONLINE + NEWS+ AWARDS + etc

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14 ACELERATING REVENUE

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38 AFFORDABILITY IN HORSERACING

36 SPORTS BETTING IN BRAZIL

Opinion Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in all external articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Infinity Gaming Magazine Any content provided by our feature writers or authors are of their opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything.

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4 EDITOR NOTES Editor welcomes you to the latest edition of Infinity Gaming Magazine.

7 A NEW COMPACT 13 VIP CASINO CLOSES DOWN 26 DIGITAIN HAS IT ALL 31 BATTLE FOR US BETTING

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THE COST OF CYBER INSURANCE

42 EVOLUTION OF GAMBLING +

NEWS & MORE NEWS from the gaming industry

BRAND CONFUSION

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A note from the editor ing accountancy firm Moore.

Of course all this would not be possible without our wonderful sponsors for helping us make the IGA what it is, the most respected awards event in the gaming industry, they are Digitain, Betconstruct, Gamomat, Pragmatic Play, Pilot Games, Bragg, SA Gaming, SimplePlay, Ultraplay, Alea, Spribe, Le Casino

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Monte Carlo and IGT.

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Now on to the magazine, we have a super article by our resident writer the

Lana Thompson - Editor in-Chief

superb Lynn Pearce on accelerating revenues along an in-depth look into cyber insurance for the gaming industry, brand confusion and all the latest

The Latest Edition of the Infinity Gaming Magazine

news and features you would expect from a leading industry magazine such

announcing the finalists for the awards Welcome to the latest edition of the

ceremony on the 5th February and by

Infinity Gaming Magazine and here we

the looks of it those lucky enough to

are in the middle of the exhibition and

reach the finals will have done a superb

conference season, well it seems the

job reaching that far.

whole year is now full of conferences Enjoy the magazine and will catch you in the next edition with more updates As you read this the closing date for

on the IGA and everything gaming.

nominations for the 2024 International Gaming Awards (IGA) is nearing with an 8th November deadline. So far we have had an amazing number of entries so

“To Infinity and Beyond!”

do not delay get your nominations in for what is recognised as the awards

Regards,

event of the year.

Lana

To this we have announced our superb judges and thank you to all of them for their time and support of this charity focused event, pop over to the website to find out more on our judges and the judging process that is audited by lead-

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as the Infinity Gaming Magazine.

The next time I write to you we will be

and exhibitions.

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PRODUCT REVIEW NEWS

Importance of Negotiating a New Gaming Compact

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he expiration of the current gaming compact between the state of New York and the Seneca Nation of Indians on December 9 is fast approaching. To ensure the economic well-being of Western New York, it is crucial for Governor Kathy Hochul to meet with Seneca Nation President Rickey Armstrong Sr. and negotiate a new gaming compact that addresses the needs of all parties involved. In this article, we will explore the urgency of this matter and the potential impact it could have on the region.

State Senator George Borrello has urged Governor Hochul to initiate negotiations with President Armstrong before time runs out. In a letter sent to the Governor on September 20, Borrello emphasized the importance of reaching an agreement that benefits both the state and the Seneca Nation. Despite the plea for action, no progress has been made in the past month.

“The clock is ticking on the expiration of the current compact with just 52 days left. As the only New York State official who can approve a gaming compact between the state and the Seneca Nation, it’s imperative that Gov. Hochul agree to a meeting with President Armstrong.” - Senator Borrello.

In response to the ongoing negotiations, non-native casinos and racinos in the Finger Lakes and Western New York regions, along with the unions representing their employees, have formed the Fair Compact for All Coalition. This coalition, consisting of representatives from del Lago Resort and Casino, Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack, Hamburg Gaming, and Batavia Downs, aims to have a say in the negotiations for a new gaming compact.

Their primary concern is ensuring that any forthcoming gaming compact takes into account the future of their operations and the communities that

rely on their success. It is essential to strike a balance that benefits all parties involved and safeguards the economic stability of the region.

President Armstrong has expressed dissatisfaction with the progress made in the negotiations. He has criticized the proposals put forth by state negotiators, deeming them “absurd and an insult to the Seneca Nation.”

It is crucial for Governor Hochul to address these concerns and engage in meaningful discussions to find a mutually beneficial agreement.

The Seneca Nation’s casinos have a significant economic impact on Western New York, with an annual contribution of approximately $1 billion.

This revenue has a direct effect on the livelihoods of tens of thousands of individuals, businesses, and families in the region. The potential expiration of the gaming compact puts the future of these New Yorkers at stake.

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the cost of cyber insurance to the gambling industry

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GM’s Excalibur on the Las Vegas Stripand Caesar’s Entertainment may have been hit with giant ransomware demands this summer – the latter losing around $100million - but it was the insurance companies who shelled out. Both gambling giants had wisely taken out policies for such an event occurring.

The court writs from their own employees and customers are a bit more problematic and longer-running. Both Las Vegas casinos are facing at least nine federal law suits. One of these is from a Caesars Rewards Member who claims the company were negligent in protecting the personal identification information of customers during the attack. Filed in the US District Court in the casino’s home ground of Nevada, the complaint was from a customer who’d been playing the slot machines and gambling with them for more than two decades.

Another law suit, this time against MGM Growth Properties claims the company and its peripheral operations failed to adhere to privacy protection guidelines outlined by the Federal Trade Commission. It stresses the lack of cyber security training in particular,

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referring to the fact that hackers were unwittingly provided with a password by a member of staff on a Help Desk.

Analysis on the MGM hacking event in September shows that once the cyber criminals accessed the entertainment complex’s system the rest was pretty much child’s play for them. It’s a metaphor that’s not too far from the truth, considering that at least one of the hacking gang, known as Scattered Spider – was a teenager; the others no older than 22. The event caused 10 days of chaos for both casinos, including customers being locked out of hotel rooms and slot machines failing to operate, not to mention the thousands of data breaches that occurred.

Not surprisingly cybersecurity was one of the topics that took up an inordinate amount of time at the recent 22ndThe Venetian Global Gaming Expo in Nevada. The subject of regulation repeatedly reared its head. The host state of Nevada doesn’t require casinos to have cybersecurity insurance in place. But it is certainly something the Nevada Gaming Control Board Chairman Kirk Hendrickadmitted he was considering.

“It’s not required right now,” he said“I

think most operators have already seen that as a cost of doing business and already have it. Right now, it hasn’t been mandated, but it’s certainly something that the board and commission could look at.”

David Rebuck, director of the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement believes state regulators should be involved in the decision to mandate, despite the fact, some cyberattacks require federal engagement.

“I think there’s a role for us to play in that conversation, but depending who the criminals are, that’s an international organisation,” he said. “Then now you’ve got the State Department and there might be some national security implications involved.”

And what of the cost for insurance?Certainly, Caesars and MGM will see a rise in the price of their insurance premiums next time they go to renew them. At the time of the attack MGM was believed to have around $200 million worth of cyber insurance.

The policy was expected to cover all the costs associated with the attack.

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As for other smaller ventures, San-Francisco insurance expert David Derigiotis says the cost of a policy depends on how big they are. The larger complexes will be looking at costs of six or seven figures and a $20 million-plus insurance limit to address their risk profile and exposure. Both hospitality and business interruption exposure rate highly for casinos, making insurance far costlier than many other business operations. Smaller casinos may be prepared to shoulder a certain amount of financial risk before they feel they need to go down the road of cybersecurity insurance.

Experts within the insurance industry say they have seen a rise in the number of gaming firms contacting cybersecurity companies to assess and build upon their existing online measures.

“Ransomware activity has escalated since the start of 2023, with ransom payments spiking to near the level of fourth quarter 2021,” saidinsurance analyst Guy Carpenter. “The recent headline-grabbing attacks on these Las Vegas casino resorts will again heighten the industry’s attention to the ongoing threat from ransomware groups. Resulting losses for many insurers participating in the

MGM and Caesars cyber towers could also lead to a more cautious approach on pricing and terms.”

Following catastrophic events in other sectors of society some insurance companies have refused policies. This is the case in California where homeowners were refused insurance following a growing number of wildfires in the state. Similarly, many homeowners in hurricane-hit Florida can’t get access to home insurance policies.

“While the cyber insurance industry confronts systemic risk through quantification and policy wording, insurers and insureds should view the Vegas attacks as garden-variety cybercrimes that are financially motivated,” reassured Carpenter.

It was difficult to tell how many casinos already had cybersecurity insurance in place, said Derigiotis. The reason being companies wouldn’t be keen to advertise the fact for fear of being targeted by cyber criminals.

He added: “I can tell you when I personally handled casino clients as a broker in my previous role, cybersecurity was of-

ten an issue. Casinos are known for having strong physical security and onsite surveillance capabilities, but this level of rigor does not automatically extend to their digital operations.”

But cyber insurance isn’t just about financial security. There’s also the company’s reputation at stake, as well as shareholder’s concerns to alleviate. And then there is the best practice that can be gained by getting in cyber security experts.

Dan Schiappa, a business risk analyst and security solutions architect, sees cyber insurance as a ‘tool for defence’ rather than ‘just insurance.’

“Critically, cyber insurance helps to transfer risk so the organisation does not default to assuming it all alone,” he said. “It also puts you in touch with risk mitigation resources and experts, unlocking a framework for proper incident response and an entire world of partners and assistance. Insurance therefore serves to mitigate some of the stress caused by an impact of a breach and share the weight of a recovery processes.”

(PTO)

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INTERNATIONAL GAMING AWARDS 2024 5TH FEBRUARY Savoy Hotel London

Cyber Attacks continued 11

The reason the staff member was happy to reveal the password was down to the fact that they believed they were talking to another member of staff. That’s because the hackers had done their homework. They’d targeted casino employees by looking through Facebook and LinkedIn profiles to find information about family, friends, ages, addresses, pets and various other information, including social security numbers and driving licenses. Then it was just a matter of convincing the helpdesk employee that they were another worker who had simply misplaced their password.

This was achieved over the telephone – a practise known as Voice Phishing (Vishing) – and it’s on the rise. For hackers it is less expensive than having to send out thousands of click-bait emails.

Many workers are still working remotely and regular cyber training isn’t something that comes up, making these employees extremely vulnerable to vishing.

The hacker simply calls and persuades the employee they are a particular individual.

Once they got the password and gained access to the software there were further hurdles for Scattered Spiders to get over in the casino hackings. This was achieved using a scattergun approach to multi-factor authentication - known in cyber-crime circles as causing multifactor authentication fatigue.

When the multi-factor authentication applications sentnotification of a login attempt, Scattered Spiders countered by sending an avalanche of login options, betting that the user would click on at least one of them.It’s the same method hackers used to breach Uber’s cyber defences last year.

The ransomware used in the MGM and Caesars casino attacks – they demanded $15m from the latter – was believed to have been masterminded by a criminal gang and rented out to Scattered Spiders. This next generation tool is known as ‘ransomware-as-a-service’ and its use is on the rise. Even hackers with not particularly sophisticated skills, may be able to extort money from big organisations

in the future, if they can afford to rent the ransomware.

Negative publicity, angry customers, panicking staff and shareholders – it’s what companies can expect following a cyberattack. Then there is the questions coming from all directions that management has to answer. There are shareholders and customers to reassure and an investigation to hold into what went wrong. This is surely all made much easier to handle when a company has a cyber insurance policy to fall back on.

Risk analyst Schiappa adds: “Whilst it’s important to note cyber insurance alone cannot end cyber risk, it’s the same way a beach-front property needs flood insurance. Cyber insurance helps a business stay standing if a cyber storm blows in. To help convert the sceptics don’t say insurance. A policy is an essential layer of defence.”

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GAMING NEWS

Mayfair Casino Closes Doors For Final Time

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rockfords Casino, Britain’s oldest casino, was once synonymous with opulence, attracting aristocracy, royalty, and high rollers from around the world. has closed its doors for the final time. The company said after careful consideration and a consultation process, the decision was made to close Crockfords Casino for good.

The £80 million site has now ceased operations, marking the end of an era.

As a result, the casino’s 100 employees faced the uncertainty of redundancy or potential reassignment to other casinos within the Genting group.

In 1828, William Crockford, a workingclass fishmonger, founded Crockfords Casino. What started as a private members’ gaming club located at 50 St James Place soon became a playground for the upper crust of society.

Crockfords capitalized on the gambling craze that swept through the 19th century, offering a sophisticated

environment for England’s elite to indulge their passion for high-stakes gambling.

As Crockfords Casino gained popularity, it outgrew its original location and relocated to the prestigious district of Mayfair. This move solidified its status as a global gambling destination, attracting high rollers from far and wide.

The allure of Crockfords lay not only in its luxurious ambiance but also in the thrilling drama that unfolded within its walls.

Like many industries, the pandemic took its toll on the world of gambling, and Crockfords Casino was not spared.

As travel restrictions and lockdowns disrupted global tourism, the flow of high-end visitors to London dwindled.

With its exclusive clientele unable to visit, the casino faced a significant decline in revenue. The pandemic became a catalyst for the challenges that would ultimately seal Crockfords’ fate.

In addition to the pandemic, Crockfords Casino, along with other highend establishments in London, faced another obstacle: the so-called “tourist tax.” Introduced in 2021, this tax eliminated VAT-free shopping for tourists after the UK’s departure from the EU. The removal of this perk further dissuaded wealthy visitors from choosing London as their destination, diverting their attention to other gambling hubs around the world.

Paul Willcock, president of Genting Casinos UK, the owner of Crockfords, attributed the closure of the casino to a combination of factors that put high-end London casinos at a competitive disadvantage. While the cachet of Mayfair had once drawn discerning gamblers, the evolving global market had shifted the balance.

Other gambling destinations offered more enticing experiences, leaving Crockfords struggling to maintain its position.

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Accelerating Revenue: The Power of Product-Led Sales Growth

By Lynn Pearce Lynn is an accomplished CMO with over 15+ years of experience in the igaming industry. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, creative direction, branding, procurement, resource allocation, and staff mentoring. With her deep understanding of the industry and consumer preferences, she has created content strategies that attract, engage, and retain customers.

Lynn’s ability to negotiate, manage, and maintain successful partnerships has helped her create lasting relationships that drive revenue and create value for all parties. She has a keen focus on maximizing revenue potential while effectively managing expenses and consistently driving top-line growth for the companies she has worked for.

for achieving key business objectives.

This model aims to redefine the customer journey, with a paramount goal: to render a product so compelling, intuitive, and valuable that it effortlessly drives customer acquisition, ensures their loyalty, and propels business expansion. In essence, it’s about creating a product experience that’s so exceptional and self-explanatory that it becomes a catalyst for organic growth.

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n the dynamic landscape of the digital age, traditional sales models are evolving, giving rise to innovative strategies that combine the prowess of Marketing, Product-Led Growth, and Sales-Led Growth (SLG) into a unified force, which is known as Product-Led Sales (PLS).

Product-Led Growth (PLG) is at the forefront of this transformation, redefining the way companies attract, con-

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vert, and retain users. This paradigm shift presents a compelling opportunity for both startups and established businesses, playing a pivotal role in driving growth in the digital era.

Product-Led Growth (PLG) represents a profound shift in the way companies approach their market strategies. It’s not just a strategy; it’s a dynamic motion that orchestrates a company’s software product as the central instrument

This approach is particularly advantageous for startups, as it enables them to leapfrog into the market with minimal resources, leveraging the inherent appeal of their product to attract, retain, and expand their user base. In the digital age, where user experience and instant gratification are paramount, PLG empowers companies to create a product that not only meets but anticipates users’ needs, making it an irresistible offering in today’s competitive landscape.

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Unlike the traditional Sales-Led Growth (SLG) approach, which relies heavily on sales, presales, and marketing teams, PLG leverages self-service channels, such as free trials and freemium models, to generate leads and boost sales. This model predominantly thrives in the digital space, with a primary focus on cost-effective channels with high viral marketing potential, encompassing engaging and relevant content marketing, email marketing, PPC retargeting, and proactive engagement from your sales team.

Leveraging word-of-mouth marketing is paramount, drawing from reviews, testimonials, and case studies, whether they stem from freemium, free trial users, or paying customers.

Product-Led Growth offers a range of advantages over conventional growth strategies. It excels in reducing Customer Acquisition Costs (CAC) by capitalizing on wordof-mouth referrals, thus making

customer acquisition cost-effective.

Furthermore, this approach leads to Higher Revenue per Employee (RPE) due to a focus on self-service sales and support. This enables PLG companies to achieve substantial recurring revenue with a lean workforce, especially beneficial for startups. Additionally, the emphasis on customer satisfaction from the initial interaction and continuing throughout the customer journey, user data analysis, and product experience improvement fosters customer loyalty, converting users into loyal advocates, thus reinforcing word-of-mouth growth.

new users encounter obstacles.

Identifying and rectifying these issues reduces friction and barriers during the onboarding process, thus enhancing time-to-value.

What sets Product-Led marketing apart is its responsiveness to user feedback, allowing continuous product improvement based on real-time input. Regular marketing experiments, driven by usage analytics, become the cornerstone of decision-making, reflecting the close collaboration between marketing and product teams.

Efficiency and Speed in the Customer Journey

Optimizing Customer Onboarding In the Product-Led approach, the key lies in swiftly delivering value to users. The customer onboarding experience is crucial in convincing users to transition from free trials to full-fledged customers. Employing tools like Hotjar session recordings helps pinpoint areas where

One of the driving factors behind the increasing popularity of PLG marketing is the remarkable speed at which the entire customer journey unfolds. Customer Success Team members and Marketing CRM are united in their quest to optimize user experiences, expediting the sales cycle.

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Accelerating Revenue

Selecting the Right Market and Business Model It’s crucial to recognize that Product-Led Growth may not be a suitable customer acquisition strategy in every market. Its effectiveness often correlates with market size. Business model alignment plays a pivotal role in determining whether a product-led approach is apt. While it offers shorter sales cycles, every step from sign-up to checkout must be seamless and transparent.

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relying on traditional referral programs, the PLG approach facilitates product-sharing by design.

Iterative Improvement In the PLG approach, you have the flexibility to split-test onboarding flows, A/B test in-app messages, and gauge user reactions to UI design changes through beta testing.

This iterative process is invaluable in fine-tuning your product for optimal user experience.

The Foundation of Successful PLG

Product-Led Sales (PLS): A Hybrid Solution

To succeed in Product-Led Growth, the product itself must offer broad value, robust features, swift timeto-value, personalized UX, and an intuitive UI design. Making the product easily shareable further fuels organic growth. Rather than

Until recently, it was a common observation that B2B companies leaned toward traditional sales models, favouring a hard-sell approach over product-led strategies.

However, the tide is turning, and the fastest-growing PLG compa-

nies have discovered a compelling secret to revenue acceleration: the integration of PLG and SLG into a new paradigm, Product-Led Sales (PLS). By focusing on qualified leads and value-driven selling, sales representatives can effectively convert self-serve users into high-value customers. This holistic approach not only enhances the customer experience but also reduces customer acquisition costs and accelerates the time to revenue.

In conclusion, Product-Led Growth and Sales are ushering in a new era of business success in the digital world. The fusion of product excellence, strategic marketing, and adept sales techniques paves the way for unprecedented growth.

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GAMING NEWS

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Supreme Court Greenlights Sports Betting in Florida

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he Supreme Court has denied the request of two physical casinos namely West Flagler Associates and Bonita-Fort Myers Corp to stop a ruling that allows the Seminole Tribe in Florida to offer online sports betting. This decision has sparked a heated debate about the Indian Regulatory Gaming Act (IGRA) and the constitutionality of state gambling laws.

the agreement, granting the tribe the right to offer online sports betting.

Currently, the Florida Supreme Court is considering whether a state law that allows the tribe to engage in gambling outside of tribal lands while prohibiting others raises constitutional concerns. However, it’s important to note that the justices are not currently examining the constitutionality of this specific state law.

Under IGRA, tribes must make agreements with states to provide casino games and sports betting. Earlier this year, Florida and the Seminole Tribe reached an agreement that allowed online sports betting for all residents.

However, two casinos challenged this decision, leading to a legal battle that eventually reached the Supreme Court.

Reactions to the Supreme Court’s decision to not block the ruling have been mixed. Justice Brett Kavanaugh supported the decision, while the two casinos expressed disappointment. These casinos waited two years before challenging the Secretary of the Interior’s inaction regarding the agreement in state court.

The casinos argued that agreements should only authorize gaming on tribal lands. Allowing gambling elsewhere in the state would likely violate IGRA. On the other hand, the D.C. Circuit stated that agreements could cover issues beyond gaming on tribal lands. As a result, the court upheld

U.S. Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar represented Secretary Deb Haaland in the case and emphasized that the D.C. Circuit’s ruling only allows sports betting on tribal lands.

She argued that agreements are not limited to gaming on tribal lands and can address broader issues.

The federal law at the center of the dispute, IGRA, was passed in 1988 and has been the subject of ongoing debates and legal battles. It establishes a framework for tribes and states to negotiate gaming agreements. However, interpreting and implementing the law has been challenging, leading to many legal disputes over the years.

While the current ruling specifically relates to online sports betting, it has wider implications for the future of tribal gaming and the interpretation of IGRA. The decision also emphasizes the need for clarity and consistency in the legal framework governing tribal gaming and state regulations.

As the Florida Supreme Court continues to consider the constitutional issues surrounding the state law allowing the tribe to engage in gambling outside of tribal lands, the outcome of this case will shape the future of gaming agreements and the limits of tribal sovereignty.

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brand confusion? disney enters the gambling industry

By Jill Stevenson

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our years ago, Disney spent more than $20 million on lobbying to prevent casinos opening in Florida – the home of its world-famousfamily entertainment complex.

Next month the Disney network launches its gambling app ESPN Bet. It follows a $2bn deal with gaming company, Penn Entertainment this summer to run a sportsbook on the Disney ESPN sports network channel. The new app will accept bets via Penn’s sportsbook.

The move has understandably led to moral questions over whether the children’s entertainment giant should be venturing into such potentially unsavoury adult territory. Not least by it is own staff, many of whom are appalled at the idea of the wholesome children’s entertainment brand becoming embroiled with gambling addiction. In addition, a Gallup poll this year revealed that more than one quarter (28 per cent) of Americans believed gambling to be morally wrong.

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A recent study in New Jersey showed sports betting was more likely to result in gambling addictions than others.

“You can see the car crash coming,” said Lia Nower, director of the Center for Gambling Studies at Rutgers University.

“I think there’s going to be well-publicised cases of families being ruined or suicides, all the things that sort of brought all this to light in the UK.” Young people, Nower added, were more likely to be vulnerable to bet in-gaming and micro-betting. “[those activities lead] to not considering how much you’re spending overall because you’re in this heightened state watch-

ing the game with your friends,” she added. “You can overspend and young people tend to do that more than older people.”

Penn and ESPN insist they will emphasise “responsible gaming” and ensure there are measures to safeguard players.

Meanwhile, the move is a real turnaround for Disney. In addition to funding the lobbyists, three years ago the companyCEO Bob Iger strongly refuted the idea of the famous theme park and its subsidiaries being linked to gambling.

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Today he has certainly changed his tune. But it appears to be more a case of the Disney network’s financial survival and having to embrace a new income stream. Online streaming services such as Apple and Amazon have eaten into the profits of ESPN. To the extent the company is looking for partners for its ESPN, even approaching several major sports leagues in the process. And, the Disney corporation hasn’t been performing particularly well in other areas either. The Hollywood strike hasn’t helped, nor has recent box office failures. Earlier this year Disney made 7,000 staff redundant after it declared it needed to make $5.5 billion in budget cuts.

customers opt for more niche digital streaming services. But even Disney’s new streaming service isn’t quite cutting it – in fact, it’s continuing to make a large loss, despite subscriptions to its ESPN+ reaching 25.2m this year (compared to 3.5m four years ago).

persuaded Igor sports steaming and sports betting went hand in hand. He saw for himself how much time his own sons spent on their smartphones playing gambling apps. It was the appeal to a younger audience that finally persuaded him to sign a deal with Penn.

Sportsbooks, on the other hand, made revenue of $7.5bn last year, from a total annual betting figure of $93.2bn.

That compares to $909m revenue and $13bn in wagers in 2019 – a massive rise in profits in just four years. Next year, revenue is expected to reach $11.8 billion. As such, it makes a foray into gambling a bit of no-brainer for a financially struggling company.

His predecessor, Disney CEO from 2020 to 2022 Bob Chapek, had already had the lightbulb moment when he announced that ESPN’s younger viewers wanted quick and easy access to a betting app.

Bundled TV subscriptions are no longer as popular as they once were as

But it wasn’t just the American Gaming Association’s impressive figures that

“Basically, our sports fans that are under 30 absolutely require this type of utility in the overall portfolio of what ESPN offers,” he said.

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MASTER THE ELEMENTS ON JANUARY 11TH

Disney into sports betting

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The app deal involves Disney receiving $1.5 billion in cash from Penn while ESON will be allowed to buy gambling shares of around £500 million. Penn is to manage the app and in doing so, will rebrand its Barstool Sportbook app and website. Disney will be responsible for marketingthe app.

considering the move into gambling it was DraftKings that Disney executives first began negotiations with. Industry sources say the big gambling operator demanded too much money though.

They also insisted on DraftKings branding on the joint app, as well as control of marketing it.

Gambling is, after all, legal in 34 states in America – only in Florida, Texas and California is there severe restrictions.

Penn already has licenses to operate in 16 states.

The former casino operator turning gaming operator Penn didn’t have DraftKing’s clout in the gambling world, but it didn’t ask for too much either. It was also the right time for the Pennsylvania-based company. They were already keen to embrace digital gambling and impressed Disney executives with their technological knowhow. Nor did they demand too much control of the partnership.

Disney’s advance into gambling isn’t exactly a move into unchartered waters. They bought a six per cent stake in the market leading sports betting company DraftKngs when they acquired Fox Entertainment back in 2019.

And, indeed, when the company was

to capture a minimum market share of the gambling market within three years. This is believed to be around 10 per cent. If this doesn’t happen then either company can break the deal. The idea is for ESPN viewers and betting app readers to switch between the two, rather than push sports programming onto the app.

As for the moral question, that’s easily answered, says former ESPN executive John Kosner.

“Getting into sports betting is a perceived business necessity for ESPN,” he said. “I think this decision has to do more with ESPN’s manifest destiny than Disney’s position on branding.”

The ESPN and Penn partnership plans

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UNVEIL MAGICAL TREASURES ON YOUR FLOOR

The new and exhilarating Magic Treasures™ Multi-Level Progressives offer a new take on the three pot feature games.

This action-packed game keeps players on their toes with three different exciting bonus options for non-stop fun and a huge variety of big-win possibilities!

For more information, please contact your Account Manager or visit IGT.com

©2023 IGT. The trademarks and/or service marks used herein are either trademarks or registered trademarks of IGT, its affiliates or its licensors.

INFINITY GAMING Artwork, descriptions, game play, photographs, videos, and other product details depicted are subject to change.

GAMING NEWS

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Kentucky’s Sports Betting Off To Impressive Start

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entucky Governor Andy Beshear recently shared positive news about sports betting in the state, highlighting a promising start for this emerging form of entertainment. Since the launch of mobile betting, over $232 million has been wagered digitally, indicating a strong embrace of this exciting activity by Kentuckians.

Besides providing excitement for sports fans, legalizing sports betting offers an opportunity for Kentucky to generate additional revenue, with an estimated $23 million per year expected to flow into the state’s coffers.

The foundation for Kentucky’s entry into sports betting was laid by House Bill 551, which played a crucial role in establishing regulations. This bill introduced a tax on sports betting to ensure regulated revenue distribution.

Wagers made at licensed facilities are taxed at 9.75 percent, while online or smartphone wagers face a slightly higher tax rate of 14.25 percent.

While the economic benefits of sports betting are clear, it is important to prioritize responsible gambling practices. Recognizing this, the Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling (KYCPG) has taken proactive steps to provide resources and support to individuals at risk of developing gambling problems. Kentuckians can find information on the risks and warning signs of gambling addiction through KYCPG. org or by contacting the helpline at 800-GAMBLER. The KYCPG offers assistance through the Problem Gambling Assistance Fund, which receives 2.5 percent of the revenue generated from sports betting. This fund plays a critical role in providing support and resources to those affected by gambling addiction, ensuring that treatment and counseling services are readily available.

The rise of mobile apps has significantly contributed to the success of sports betting in Kentucky. With nearly 500,000 betting accounts created

through these platforms, individuals can conveniently place bets using their smartphones or tablets. The user-friendly interfaces and seamless experiences offered by these apps have undoubtedly contributed to the popularity of mobile betting.

In addition to benefiting the state’s finances, the revenue generated from sports betting makes a significant contribution to the Kentucky permanent pension fund. By allocating these funds to the pension system, the state aims to strengthen retirement security for its residents, ensuring a brighter future for all.

As sports betting continues to gain popularity, Kentucky remains committed to maintaining oversight and regulation to ensure a safe and fair betting environment. The revenue generated will not only support the administration and oversight of sports betting but also provide vital assistance to those affected by gambling problems.

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WE HAVE IT ALL

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tandfirst With over 20+ years of demonstrable experience, Digitain continues to expand its Sportsbook and iGaming solutions across continental Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

The business continues to grow due to the trust earned and placed in the company by its partners, suppliers, and industry peers.

Digitain - iGaming Solutions Digitain is a global leader, with more than 3,000 employees delivering and supporting GLI-certified, awardwinning sports betting and gaming platform technology, turnkeyandAPI

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solutions, to over 150 international partners.

Digitain’s multi-channeliGaming Platform – Centrivo, allows operators to plug in sportsbook, casino, live dealer, and virtual sports modules.

It includes an integrated payment gateway, bonus engine, CRM system and dedicated customer support. It offers many features to enhance the player experience, increase engagement and drive business growth.

Product Localisation The Digitain platform can be integrated as a turnkey solution or via an API. The API option continues to be very

popular among our growing number of partners, including the complete range of products and services available in the turnkey solution.

The bespoke solution, with customised API, can be tailored to the specific needs of each local or global partner. It includes several innovative features like Sportsbook Jackpot, which brings a degree of socialisation to a sportsbook in today’s highly competitive marketplace, to other features such as bore draw for Football, Goal Ahead for top sports, AI-driven recommendation engine, Lucky Winners, Edit my Bet and many more.

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Additionally, a bespoke feed API gives partners access to Sportsbook’s data feeds, banners, tournaments and promotions. It allows them to build custom, engaging applications to familiarise new players with sports betting and retain existing players via content, websites and services using the data. This gives partners a high level of flexibility and control over their sports betting experience offering, providing them a competitive edge in the market.

As the partner operator requires, we can integrate multiple API content and odds feeds to ensure high

market and event localisation. Our partners can also configure the odds feeds and profit margins they want to operate at, given their market knowledge, thus providing more customer revenue optimisation.

Multi-channel versions of the Sportsbook, including native mobile apps for Android and iOS, leverage built-in smartphone services such as direct customer communication and biometric log-ins.

Regarding user experience, our sportsbook content is among the best available anywhere, covering 100 sports and 15,000 leagues and

offering more than 3,000 betting markets. We offer odds on 100,000 live events and 70,000 pre-match markets each month.

A dynamic CMS gives operators complete control of their front end, enabling high differentiation and localisation. Partners can manage theiressential brand elements on the website - theirlogo, colours, fonts, and even icon styles. Theycan also customize the navigation, how theircontent is displayed, as well as their payment options, and theycan choose which products theywant to cover. We enable the possibility to optimise the customer journey by

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Digitain - Has It All

creating own registration process and player account forms to have a website that meets uniquebusiness needs.

Thanks to its dedicated layouts and a rich pool of features and functionalities, the Sportsbook is flexible and can be localised for different markets. Although designed for specific needs, some of its features are also successfully used in other markets. As for layouts for different markets, we have designated layouts for Asian, African and LatAm markets, a layout specially designed for Esports view, and a standard layout tailored for operators across Europe.

Our In-House Virtual Sports provide 11,200 Daily Events, 200+ betting markets and full 3D Visualisation.

Available Games include Football (World Cup), Football (International Matches), English Premier League,

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Horse Racing and Greyhound Racing.

Paydrom is our unique solution that allows a centralised payment management system. With 50+ providers, 400+ payment options and over 30 countries covered, it streamlines the day-to-day operational payment flows.

The Payment System Management is enabled via an easy-to-use interface to configure and store payment account details securely. The solution supports multiple merchant accounts to diversify transaction traffic flows.

Licensing The Digitain business is committed to a multi-jurisdictional licensing and certification strategy within internationally regulated markets to ensure exacting technical and regulatory compliance for our partners and our operational business units.

Our business teams and account managers are experienced in guiding our partner operators through the exacting technical requirements in regulated markets and the complexities of local licensing conditions.

Reliability & Support

In addition to manual operation tools, the Payment Transaction Management within Paydrom’s platform has an “Auto reconciliation” service designed to increase transaction acceptance and ensure delivery of IPNs to merchant platforms.

With over 20+ years in technology delivery, the Digitain platform has a proven, reliable code base and has been used by over 150 partners. The platform continues to be highly scalable and has an uptime

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INTERNATIONAL GAMING AWARDS 2024 5TH FEBRUARY Savoy Hotel London

GAMING NEWS

The Battle For US Sports Betting Supremacy

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raftKings and FanDuel, are engaged in a fbattle to establish their dominance in the US market, recent developments have shown a shift in power, setting the stage for a major clash between these two giants.

DraftKings, known for its innovative approach and aggressive expansion strategies, has become a strong contender in the industry. With the highest revenue among online gaming and sports betting operators, DraftKings currently holds the largest market share in the US. In an impressive achievement, they captured a staggering 31% market share in August, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with.

FanDuel, once the clear leader with a commanding 39.3% market share, now faces a tough challenge from DraftKings. While FanDuel still has a slightly higher market share of 30%, DraftKings’ relentless pursuit of success is closing the gap. The battle between these two giants promises to be an exciting showdown for dominance.

The increase in market share for both companies will undoubtedly have a significant impact on their upcoming financial reports. Investors and industry experts eagerly await these reports, as they will provide valuable insights into the future of the online gambling industry. The success of DraftKings and FanDuel will be closely watched, as their performance will shape investor confidence in the industry as a whole.

DraftKings’ success can be attributed to its focused and disciplined execution, as praised by industry analysts Eilers & Krejcik. The company’s strategic decisions and adaptability to changing market conditions have played a key role in their rise. DraftKings’ stock has experienced a remarkable surge, rising over 144% in 2023 alone, showing strong investor confidence in the company’s prospects.

FanDuel, on the other hand, has been making strategic moves of its own. The integration of the recently acquired PointsBet operation has expanded their offerings, providing customers with a more comprehen-

sive gambling experience. FanDuel aims to solidify its position in the market and attract new customers with a variety of betting options.

An exciting development on the horizon is the upcoming launch of ESPN Bet’s new Sportsbook in partnership with PENN Entertainment. This collaboration, set to debut in November 2023, aims to take advantage of the growing popularity of sports betting and leverage ESPN’s iconic brand to attract a large customer base. ESPN’s entry into the market is expected to intensify the competition between DraftKings and FanDuel.

Despite their impressive market shares, both DraftKings and FanDuel acknowledge that there is still work to be done. DraftKings’ co-founder, Matt Kalish, emphasizes that they are far from satisfied and will continue to strive for excellence. This unwavering determination to maintain their leading position highlights the fierce rivalry between these industry giants.

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The Future of Gambling Advertisement in Colombia New Regulations on the Horizon

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olombia’s rapidly growing gambling market, is considering the introduction of new regulations on gambling advertisement. The proposal, put forth by Coljuegos, the country’s gambling regulator, aims to establish stricter rules for licensed operators in order to protect vulnerable audiences and prevent gambling harm. If passed, these regulations would not only give Coljuegos more authority over gambling ads but also introduce caps on advertising spend and require adherence to safer gambling protocols.

In this article, we will delve into the details of the proposed regulations and their potential impact on the Colombian gambling industry.

New Regulator for Gambling Ads Under the bill proposed by Coljuegos on September 29, the regulatory body would become the official authority for overseeing licensed gambling ads and marketing campaigns. This move would consolidate the power of Coljuegos and enable them to regulate how gambling is advertised in the country.

The proposal also outlines sanctions for violations and sets a cap on advertising expenditure to ensure responsible marketing practices.

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Stricter Advertising Guidelines for Operators The proposed regulations would introduce new rules to govern what operators can and cannot do in their advertising efforts. One of the key provisions is the limit on advertising expenditure. Starting from 2024, operators would be restricted to spending a maximum of 20% of their project Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) on advertising and marketing campaigns. Additionally, in the first year, operators would be prohibited from spending more than $2.2 million on promotional activities.

Ensuring Compliance and Transparency Coljuegos aims to enhance transparency within the industry by requiring gambling companies to provide information about their expenses. This measure is designed to ensure that operators are compliant with the new regulations and prevent any potential breaches. By having access to this data, Coljuegos can effectively monitor and enforce compliance, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the gambling market in Colombia.

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Protecting Vulnerable Audiences One of the primary motivations behind the proposed regulations is to protect vulnerable audiences from the potential harm of gambling. To achieve this, licensees would be required to follow new safer gambling protocols and take proactive measures to identify and prevent gambling-related harm. The regulations specifically prohibit operators from advertising near learning establishments and health centers, ensuring that these sensitive locations are not targeted by gambling advertisements.

Responsible Advertising to Younger Audiences Coljuegos is keen on preventing operators from advertising to younger audiences, recognizing the need to safeguard this vulnerable demographic. The proposed regulations would prohibit any form of gambling advertisement targeting minors, ensuring that young individuals are not enticed into participating in gambling activities. By setting clear boundaries, Coljuegos aims to create a safer environment for young people and promote responsible gambling practices.

Combating Misleading Advertisement

Coljuegos also aims to respect and support individuals who have chosen to exclude themselves from gambling. The proposed regulations would bar gambling companies from advertising their products and services to individuals who have voluntarily excluded themselves from gambling activities. This measure is crucial in preventing vulnerable individuals from being targeted and potentially lured back into gambling.

Transparent Communication Product Nature

In addition to the proposed advertising regulations, Coljuegos also plans to introduce rules on payment methods. The regulations would limit deposits to pre-paid cards, aiming to prevent excessive gambling expenditure and promote responsible financial behavior among gamblers. This measure aligns with Coljuegos’ overall objective of protecting vulnerable individuals and maintaining the integrity of the gambling industry in Colombia.

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In line with its commitment to protect the Colombian market, Coljuegos seeks to eliminate false or misleading advertisements that downplay the risks associated with gambling. The proposed regulations would prohibit operators from making exaggerated claims or creating false associations between gambling and financial success. This ensures that consumers are provided with accurate information and are not misled by deceptive marketing tactics.

Another important aspect of the proposed regulations is the requirement for operators to clearly communicate the nature of their products in their advertisements. This ensures that consumers are adequately informed about the characteristics of the games being advertised, including the potential risks and rewards involved. By promoting transparency, Coljuegos strives to empower consumers to make informed decisions about their gambling activities.

Exclusion from Gambling Advertising

Payment Regulations and Future Developments

Legislative Approval and Future Implementation The fate of Coljuegos’ gambling advertising resolution lies in the hands of the Congress. If approved, these regulations would mark a significant milestone in the regulation of the Colombian gambling industry, placing greater emphasis on responsible advertising practices and protecting vulnerable audiences. The implementation of these regulations would require cooperation from all stakeholders, including gambling operators, regulatory bodies, and the public, to ensure their effective enforcement and long-term success.

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GAMING NEWS

Norway Tightens Grip on Illegal Online Betting

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he Norwegian government has passed a law to stop unlicensed online gambling sites in order to fight against illegal gambling. The change to the Gambling Act aims to create stricter rules and uphold the integrity of the country’s gambling industry.

The success of this law depends on the Norwegian gambling regulator, which will closely watch nine banks to make sure they follow the ban on working with illegal gambling sites. By focusing on actors within its borders, the government wants to improve regulation and protect citizens’ interests.

The decision to block unlicensed gambling sites comes after two years of considering DNS (domain name server) blocking. DNS blocking lets authorities limit access to specific sites by stopping their domain names from turning into IP addresses. But this approach has caused debates about how effective it is and if it limits internet freedom.

Despite these concerns, the Norwegian government remains committed to addressing the risks of online gambling. To strengthen its efforts, the regulator plans to block more sites in

2024, especially ones that let Norwegian players avoid the country’s rules and use their services.

Lubna Jaffery, the Minister for Culture and Equality, thinks the law is important in preventing gambling issues.

Jaffery says the government’s main goal is to protect vulnerable players and their families from the problems of unregulated online gambling. By blocking unlicensed sites, the government wants to make online gaming safer.

The quick approval of the law shows the Norwegian government’s urgency and dedication to this matter. This action shows their commitment to putting their citizens first and making sure gambling is responsible in the country.

Giving power to the gambling regulator to block unlicensed online casinos shows the government’s support for a regulated gambling industry.

By cutting access to these sites, the regulator wants to protect Norwegian players from dishonest operators who don’t follow the country’s strict gambling rules.

However, it’s important to recognize that the law and blocking campaign

have faced criticism. Some think DNS blocking limits internet freedom and may push players towards unregulated platforms. There are also concerns about how effective the blocks are, as determined individuals may find ways around them.

Despite these concerns, the Norwegian government believes that stricter rules have more benefits than drawbacks. By taking action to block unlicensed online gambling sites, they hope to create a safer gambling environment and prevent people from having gambling problems.

As the law is put into action, it will be interesting to see how it affects online gambling in Norway. Will it successfully stop unlicensed sites, or will it unintentionally push Norwegian players towards offshore platforms?

Only time will tell.

Norway’s decision to block unlicensed online gambling sites is a big step towards balancing consumer protection and internet freedom. By prioritizing citizens’ well-being, the government aims to reduce the risks of online gambling and create a safer and more regulated gaming environment for everyone.

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THE CHANGING LANDSCAPE OF SPORTS BETTING IN BRAZIL

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ports betting has gained significant popularity in Brazil in recent years, prompting the government to consider new tax regulations. Brazilian Senator Angelo Coronel has proposed changes to the taxation system, aiming to achieve tax fairness and allocate a portion of the revenue to municipalities. In this article, we will explore the proposed alterations, the potential impact on the industry, and the reaction from various stakeholders. Let’s dive into the evolving landscape of sports betting taxation in Brazil.

Proposed Tax Rate Adjustments Senator Coronel aims to address the perceived imbalance between online gaming and sports betting tax rates. Currently, approximately 60%

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of companies in Brazil are involved in online gaming, while the remaining 40% are related to sports betting. To achieve tax fairness, Coronel suggests maintaining the overall tax rate of 18% for online gaming but lowering the rate for sports betting to around 12%.

Alternatively, he proposes reducing the overall tax rate for both sports betting and electronic gaming to approximately 15%.

Moreover, the senator advocates for a portion of the tax revenue to be allocated directly to municipalities.

This reallocation may reduce the share of other beneficiaries, following the criteria of the Fund for Municipalities’ Participation (FPM)1. Coronel argues that this approach ensures a fair distribution of funds while benefiting everyone, considering the specific nature of

sports betting.

Department Responsible for Revenue Management Senator Coronel believes that the department responsible for managing the revenue collected from the new tax should be linked to the Ministry of Finance. This recommendation comes in the wake of the Ministry of Sports falling under the jurisdiction of the PP party after the appointment of Minister André Fufuca. The senator emphasizes that the Ministry of Finance, which handles revenue, collection, and expenses, is the most appropriate place to manage the tax revenue.

Assessing Feasibility and Finalizing Decisions Before finalizing his decision, Senator

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Coronel plans to meet with Finance Minister Fernando Haddad and the President of the Chamber, Arthur Lira (PP-AL). The goal of these meetings is to assess the feasibility of the proposed adjustments and create a text that will not encounter approval issues. Coronel aims to smooth things out and gather input from relevant stakeholders to ensure the viability of the proposed changes.

Implications for the Federal Government’s Revenue Estimates When questioned about the potential impact of the proposed tax rate reduction on the federal government’s revenue estimates, Senator Coronel asserts that he will discuss the matter with Finance Minister Haddad. He plans to present the argument that taxing each bet could burden betting houses that do not offer online games, as it would target establishments without this particular type of activity. Coronel emphasizes the need for tax regula-

tions that align with the Brazilian reality.

Taxation on Bettors’ Profits In addition to tax rate adjustments, Senator Angelo Coronel proposes changing the taxation model for bettors’ profits. Currently, there is criticism regarding the taxation of each individual bet due to frequent bettors placing multiple bets and accumulating winnings and losses. To address this concern, the preliminary proposal suggests that bettors calculate their results throughout the month and pay taxes on their monthly profits, similar to the ‘day trade’ on the Stock Exchange (B3).

Under the proposed model, bettors would calculate their profits or losses and pay 20% of their profit through a DARF (Federal Revenue Collection Document) on the last day of the following month. They would then report these payments on their Income Tax return. For sports betting, the proposed tax rate under consideration is 30%

on winnings exceeding R$ 2,112 per month, with an exemption for amounts below this threshold.

Support from the Ministry of Finance During a public hearing on the subject, José Francisco Manssur, a special advisor to the Ministry of Finance, advocated for the approval of the bill sent by the federal government. Manssur highlighted the importance of regulating the sector to prevent services from operating without paying taxes, which he considers a serious tax distortion.

He emphasized the unfairness of an essential services sector operating without contributing taxes while other industries and workers fulfill their tax obligations. Manssur cited the high prevalence of gambling, with seven out of ten Brazilians with access to a mobile phone having placed bets.

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The Impact of Affordability Checks on Horseracing

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he horseracing industry in Britain is currently facing a significant threat due to proposed legislation that would impose strict affordability checks on bettors.

These checks, outlined in the UK Government’s Gambling White Paper, aim to address problem gambling by subjecting individuals who lose as little as £1.37 a day to intrusive scrutiny. However, the racing industry argues that these measures would have a catastrophic impact on the sport and could result in significant financial losses. This article explores the potential consequences of the proposed betting affordability checks and highlights the concerns raised by the horseracing industry.

The UK Government’s Gambling White Paper introduced the concept of two

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tiers of affordability checks. The first tier targets individuals who lose £125 in 30 days or £500 in a year. These bettors would undergo frictionless background checks using publicly available data. The second tier involves more detailed scrutiny for individuals with net losses of £1,000 within 24 hours or £2,000 in 90 days. These checks would require credit reference agencies to be involved, and bookmakers would also request personal documentation such as bank statements and proof of earnings.

The proposed blanket affordability checks have been met with significant opposition from various stakeholders in the horseracing industry. More than one in four bettors claim to have already undergone affordability checks by bookmakers in anticipation of their

implementation. Some operators have even requested financial documentation, including payslips and P60 forms.

Racing industry experts warn that enforcing these strict measures in their current form would have a devastating impact on the industry.

According to a survey conducted by the ‘Right to Bet’ campaign, over half of the 14,000 racing bettors who participated stated that they would either walk away from the sport completely or reduce their involvement if the proposed checks were implemented.

This exodus could result in a significant loss of revenue for the industry, estimated at around £250 million over the next five years. Furthermore, the introduction of the checks has already led to a decline in online betting revenue.

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In response to the consultation on ‘Financial risk checks for bettors’ conducted by the Gambling Commission, the horseracing industry has launched a petition urging the UK Government to abandon the planned implementation of the betting affordability checks.

The petition, listed as “Stop the planned implementation of betting affordability or financial risk checks” on Change. org, highlights the industry’s concerns about the proposed checks’ intrusiveness and discriminatory nature.

The horseracing industry argues that the proposed checks represent a significant infringement on personal freedom. Nevin Truesdale, Chief Executive of The Jockey Club, emphasizes that it is deeply concerning that racing fans may have to prove they can afford to lose less than £10 a week on their hobby. This level of intrusiveness is not seen in any other aspect of society, and the industry believes it is unjustified

given the low percentage of problem gambling in relation to horseracing.

The potential consequences of the proposed affordability checks extend beyond the horseracing industry itself.

The industry, supporting over 85,000 jobs and contributing £4.1 billion to the UK economy annually, plays a crucial role in the communities it serves. If the checks were to be implemented, many livelihoods would be at risk. Trainers, breeders, farriers, vets, jockeys, and countless other individuals who depend on the industry for their income could face significant challenges. Additionally, the local businesses that thrive as a part of racing communities would also be put at risk.

One major concern raised by the horseracing industry is the effectiveness of the proposed checks in addressing problem gambling. While the industry acknowledges the need

to help those with gambling issues, it argues that blanket affordability checks will not address the underlying problem. Betting is a habit-forming activity, and those who bet responsibly may be deterred or forced into the unregulated black market. Meanwhile, individuals who cannot afford to gamble may find alternative ways to do so.

Instead of blanket affordability checks, the horseracing industry advocates for a more targeted approach. Industry experts propose focusing on other markers of harm rather than solely relying on financial checks. By addressing the root causes of problem gambling and implementing measures that specifically target at-risk individuals, the industry believes a more effective solution can be found.

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GAMING NEWS

Indonesian Ministry Tackles Online Gambling

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he Ministry of Communication and Information (Kominfo) in Indonesia is cracking down on online gambling.

They are taking action by stopping promotions, blocking websites, and freezing bank accounts connected to gambling. However, they face challenges like changing IP addresses and foreign numbers. This article explores Kominfo’s efforts, partnerships, and strategies to tackle online gambling.

promotions effectively, Kominfo is collaborating with mobile operators. They aim to identify and block numbers used for promoting gambling. This partnership is crucial in staying ahead of those who try to bypass regulations and continue their illegal activities. Kominfo hopes to intensify its efforts to eliminate online gambling and protect its citizens by working closely with internet service providers (ISPs) and mobile operators.

gambling servers, Kominfo is urging ISPs and mobile operators to increase their efforts in eradicating online gambling. By collaborating closely with these entities, Kominfo aims to terminate access and prevent Indonesians from engaging in illegal gambling. They also actively monitor and block foreign numbers used in gambling promotions to limit their impact and protect citizens from falling for these offers.

Minister Budi Arie Setiadi recently reaffirmed Kominfo’s commitment to addressing online gambling. They have already stopped 425,506 online gambling contents across various platforms between July 18 and October 18, 2023. This shows their determination to confront the problem directly.

Kominfo faces challenges, such as the changing IP addresses of gambling servers. These servers host many online gambling sites in neighboring countries like Cambodia and the Philippines. This makes it hard for Kominfo to keep up with the evolving landscape of online gambling and block these sites effectively.

Recognizing the social and economic impact of unregulated gambling, the Indonesian government has given Kominfo the responsibility of regulating online gambling. Through strict measures like stopping promotions, blocking website access, and freezing bank accounts linked to gambling, Kominfo disrupts illegal operations and ensures the safety of its citizens.

To monitor and track gambling

To tackle the dynamic nature of

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THE EVOLUTION OF GAMBLING

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ambling has been an integral part of human history, with evidence of its existence dating back thousands of years. From ancient China to the modern era of mobile gaming, the world of gambling has undergone significant changes and developments. In this article, we will explore the milestones and key moments in the evolution of gambling.

The Earliest Evidence of Gambling The earliest concrete evidence of gambling can be traced back to ancient China. In Ancient China, tiles were unearthed that appeared to have been used for a rudimentary game of chance. The Chinese ‘Book of Songs’ references “the drawing of wood,” suggesting that these tiles may have formed part of a lottery-type game. Additionally, keno slips, which were used around 200 BC, served as a form of lottery to fund state works, potentially including the construction of the Great Wall of China. Lotteries continued to be used for civic purposes throughout history, with prestigious institutions

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like Harvard and Yale being established using lottery funds.

Dicing with the Law on the Streets of Ancient Rome The ancient Greeks and Romans had a deep fascination with gambling, participating in various forms of games of chance. In fact, gambling, including dice games, was forbidden within the ancient city of Rome. To circumvent this prohibition, Roman citizens invented gambling chips, allowing them to claim they were playing only for chips and not real money. This clever ruse helped them evade the penalties imposed for gambling.

Playing Your Cards Right in China Playing cards, as we know them today, made their first appearance in China during the 9th century. However, the exact rules of the games they were used for have been lost to history.

Some suggest that the cards were both the game and the stake, similar to trading card games played by children today. Others believe the first packs

of cards were paper forms of Chinese dominoes. These early cards bore little resemblance to the standard 52-card decks we know today.

Baccarat in Italy and France Baccarat, one of the oldest casino games still played today, originated in Italy during the 1400s. It then migrated to France, where it underwent various evolutions before becoming the game we know today. From Cuba to Britain and eventually the United States, baccarat gained popularity worldwide. It has become a staple in casinos due to its appeal to high-rolling gamblers.

Blackjack Through the Ages The origins of blackjack are somewhat elusive, with various games of chance potentially influencing its creation. One suggestion is that blackjack evolved from a Spanish game called ventiuna (21), mentioned in a book written in 1601. Another possibility is the game of trente-un (31) from France in 1570.

The French game of vingt-et-un in the seventeenth century is a direct

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predecessor of modern blackjack. The name “blackjack” originated in the United States and was linked to special promotions in Nevada casinos in the 1930s.

emerged from the ashes of the Great Depression, became synonymous with the modern casino experience.

The Little Wheel in Paris

First Casinos in Italy The first gambling houses that resembled modern casinos appeared in Italy during the early 17th century. The Ridotto, established in Venice in 1638, provided a controlled gambling environment during the annual carnival season. As the 19th century progressed, casinos began to emerge throughout continental Europe, while informal gambling houses gained popularity in the United States, particularly on Mississippi steamboats. The Las Vegas Strip, which

Roulette, a popular casino game, originated in the gaming houses of Paris.

The game we now refer to as American Roulette was initially played in Parisian casinos. The European version, featuring a single green zero, emerged 50 years later. Roulette grew in popularity during the 19th century, and when the famous Monte Carlo casino adopted the single zero format, it spread throughout Europe and the world. In the United States, the original double zero wheels remained prevalent.

Poker: Bust to Boom The exact origin of poker is difficult to pinpoint, as it evolved over decades and possibly centuries from various card games. However, an English actor named Joseph Crowell reported the recognizable form of poker being played in New Orleans in 1829. The game’s popularity grew slowly until world poker tournaments began in Las Vegas in the 1970s. The advent of online poker and televised events further propelled its popularity, with amateur player Chris Moneymaker’s 2003 world poker championship win amplifying the allure of online poker.

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Playing to Win!

The Evolution of Gambling 45 casinos, developed by Playtech in 2003, bridged the gap between traditional brick-and-mortar casinos and the virtual world.

Gambling Has Gone Mobile Since New Jersey legalized online gambling in 2011, there has been a surge in interest and accessibility. The United States has seen a state-by-state move toward legalization, and mobile gambling has experienced rapid growth. As more internet users gravitate toward handheld devices, online gamblers seek the convenience of enjoying their favorite games on the go. Mobile-focused online gambling platforms have emerged, leaving desktops behind in favor of mobile alternatives.

The Future: What Comes Next?

One-Armed Bandits Appear in New York The first gambling machine resembling today’s slots was developed in New York in the late 19th century. Created

by Messrs Sittman and Pitt, this machine used drum reels with 52 cards to create a poker game-like experience. Around the same time, Charles Fey invented the Liberty Bell machine in San Francisco, which revolutionized slot gaming by precisely regulating winnings. The Liberty Bell machine’s influence can still be seen in contemporary video slots, as bell symbols remain a common feature.

Gambling in the US: Two Sides of the Same Coin The United States has had a complex relationship with gambling since the arrival of European settlers. While Puritan settlers banned gambling in their new

settlements, emigrants from England held a more lenient view. In 1910, public pressure led to a nationwide prohibition on gambling, mirroring the alcohol prohibition of the same era. However, enforcement proved challenging, and gambling continued in a somewhat discreet manner. The Wall Street Crash and the Great Depression in the 1930s led to the legalization of gambling as a means of alleviating poverty. While gambling is legal in many states today, online gambling remains a gray area in the United States.

The New Frontier for Gambling Microgaming, one of the largest casino and slot game developers, played a pioneering role in online gambling. In 1994, Microgaming took the leap into virtual casinos, laying the foundation for the multibillion-dollar online gambling industry we know today. Live dealer

The future of gambling is as unpredictable as its origins. Currently, attention is focused on the mobile gaming market, with online casinos striving to make their content compatible with the latest handheld devices. Virtual reality technology is also on the horizon, offering the potential for a hybrid between brick-and-mortar casinos and the virtual world. Imagine sitting around a virtual poker table with friends from all over the world, sharing laughs and trying to spot tell-tale facial ticks, all from the comfort of your own home. While this may not be a reality today, technological advancements could make it possible in the near future.

The evolution of gambling has been a remarkable journey spanning centuries.

From ancient China to the advent of mobile gaming, gambling has continually adapted and thrived. As technology continues to advance, the future of gambling holds endless possibilities.

Whether it’s the rise of virtual reality or the continued growth of mobile gambling, one thing is certain: gambling will always be a part of human culture.

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