LuckyStreak, the Riga-based live casino games provider and content aggregation specialist, has confirmed its return to ICE Barcelona 2026, where it will exhibit at Stand 1F52 in Hall 1.
At the industry’s flagship event, LuckyStreak will present its full portfolio of licensed live dealer games and its LuckyConnect content aggregation solution, designed to support operators and platforms across regulated, emerging and fast-changing markets worldwide.
LuckyStreak produces and streams premium live casino content, including Roulette, Blackjack and Baccarat, from its own hi-tech studio in Latvia. LuckyConnect provides casino operators and platforms with access to 6,000+ games from more than 50 leading providers such as Play’n GO, Pragmatic Play, PG Soft, 3 Oaks Gaming and EGT Digital, via a single, stable API. LuckyStreak supports real-money, crypto and sweepstakes casino models, alongside a comprehensive suite of operational, promotional and reporting tools, including their new dynamic auto-domain switching solution designed for evolving markets.
Alongside product showcases and meetings, LuckyStreak has planned a number of on-stand activities throughout the show. On Day 2 (3pm–5pm), the company will host a Provider Open-House, inviting game studios to meet the CEO of LuckyConnect and the senior management team to discuss their products and potential distribution opportunities.
Visitors can also take part in the Streak Challenge, where players aim to build the longest winning streak on LuckyStreak’s roulette wheel, with prizes including Apple iPads, AirPods and AirTags. Daily Spin-for-a-Shot sessions, running from 4pm–5pm, will add a social element to the stand, alongside a range of popular branded merchandise giveaways.
Ady Totah
Ady Totah, CEO and Co-founder of LuckyStreak, said: “ICE remains the most important meeting point for the global iGaming industry, and we’re pleased to be returning to Barcelona in 2026. It’s a valuable opportunity to spend time with partners, operators and providers, and to demonstrate how our live casino and aggregation solutions continue to evolve in line with market demands. It’s always a fantastic show and the best way to have productive conversations, make new contacts, meet up with old friends and develop new opportunities.”
LuckyStreak’s senior management team will be present throughout the event to discuss live casino performance, aggregation strategy and market-specific technical solutions.
Zitro has announced the appointment of Michael Bauer as CEO of Zitro Digital. Michael brings over a decade of senior leadership experience in online gaming, where he has built and scaled digital operations across multiple regulated markets.
In his new role, Michael will oversee Zitro Digital’s strategy and operations as the company accelerates its growth in the online space. His background spans product development, driving revenue growth, and managing international expansion at executive level.
“I’m delighted to join Zitro as their new CEO Digital,” Michael Bauer said. “Over my years in gaming, I have followed with great interest their path and was impressed by their fast international growth. They have quickly become one of the most innovative companies in the industry, and their success is based on high-quality products, strong customer relations, and a great team that is led by a visionary owner.”
“Based on that, Zitro has built a strong position as a market leader in land-based casinos worldwide, and I strongly believe we can replicate that success online,” he continued. “My task is now to bring their winning formula to the digital realm—a role that I’m very much looking forward to. We share the same vision that casino entertainment is based on strong product, quality games, a customer-centric approach, and great people.”
Johnny Ortiz, Founder of Zitro, commented: “Michael is a key addition to our leadership team at an important moment for Zitro Digital. His proven track record in growing online gaming operations aligns perfectly with our goals in the digital market. We’re excited to have him lead this next chapter.”
Catalist Sports has announced a multi-year partnership under which it will hold the exclusive U.S. rights to official Australian Open data, beginning with the 2026 tournament, delivering licensed U.S. sportsbooks a truly unique and high-impact offering for the first Grand Slam of the year.
Catalist Sports, the newly established, licensed supplier of sports betting content to the regulated U.S. marketplace, is the only provider authorised to distribute official Australian Open data in the United States. It will supply operators with premium, low-latency, high-frequency data, ideally suited for the proliferation of live betting in the region.
The 2026 tournament takes place from 12 January to 1 February at Melbourne Park, with daily sessions beginning at 11:00 a.m. local time (7:00 p.m. ET), meaning the prestigious Grand Slam tournament unfolds in prime time for U.S. bettors and sportsbooks.
As part of its exclusive agreement, Catalist Sports will collect and distribute Level 2 and Level 3 official data, delivering a deeper and richer dataset that enables operators to create new, highly granular betting markets, support advanced modelling, and unlock next-generation in-play experiences. This expanded data depth goes far beyond traditional scoring feeds, providing operators with the tools they need to innovate and differentiate their Australian Open offering.
Catalist Sports is the exclusive reseller of Infront Sports & Media content, and this Australian Open access sits within a portfolio of more than 60,000 annual events to licensed U.S. sportsbooks. This includes top-tier tennis properties such as the ITF World Tour, Davis Cup, and Billie Jean King Cup, plus an additional 40,000 events across soccer, basketball, and ice hockey, which power year-round engagement for sportsbooks seeking continuous, high-frequency, high-quality live betting content.
“The Australian Open is one of the biggest events in global sport, and we’re proud to bring its official data exclusively to the U.S. market,” said James Monk, Vice President & General Manager of Catalist Sports. “We are already partnering with key U.S. operators, including FanDuel, DraftKings, Fanatics, theScore Bet, Rush Street Interactive, Caesars, Hard Rock Bet, and many more.”
“The season curtain-raiser will unlock prime-time inventory and unmatched in-play potential, with American talents like Taylor Fritz, Ben Shelton, and Coco Gauff tipped to go deep into the second week in Melbourne. Catalist Sports is uniquely positioned to help operators maximise this window with the industry’s most trusted and scalable tennis content.”
Catalist Sports is licensed in 28 U.S. states, having recently secured a supplier’s license in the state of Missouri at the start of December.
A Cambodian bank established by the accused fraudster Chen Zhi, who faces charges in the United States for orchestrating a multibillion-dollar scam, has been ordered to liquidate.
The National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) announced on Thursday that Prince Bank would be liquidated in accordance with the country’s laws. Founded in 2015, the bank states in its website to have thirty-six branches located in twenty-two provinces and cities in Cambodia.
The bank has been suspended from offering new banking services, including accepting deposits and providing credit. Morisonkak MKA has been appointed as the liquidator. Customers can still withdraw their deposits by submitting the necessary documentation, while borrowers must continue to meet their financial obligations.
Chen, who was sanctioned by Washington and London in October for leading a cyberfraud operation involving numerous scammers in Cambodia, was arrested and extradited to China along with two other nationals. This extradition followed months of investigative cooperation between Cambodia and Chinese authorities.
Jacob Daniel Sims, a transnational crime expert and visiting fellow at Harvard University’s Asia Center, told AFP that the arrest reflects increased pressure on the Cambodian government to address its role in harboring criminal activities. He pointed out that many scam operations in Cambodia allegedly function with governmental support.
Chen could face up to 40 years in prison in the U.S. on charges of wire fraud and money laundering involving a significant cryptocurrency seizure.
U.S. prosecutors recently unveiled an indictment against Chen, accusing him of overseeing compounds where trafficked individuals executed cryptocurrency fraud schemes. Victims have been targeted with so-called “pig butchering” scams, which build trust over time before committing theft.
The operations have generated billions in global losses, with many victims working under duress in scam centers across Cambodia and the region. Experts estimate that thousands are involved in this multimillion-dollar industry, often facing brutal conditions.
Chen had significant influence in Cambodia, previously serving as an adviser to Prime Minister Hun Manet and his father, former leader Hun Sen. His Cambodian nationality was revoked in December, highlighting the shifting response to his alleged criminal activities.
In 2025, tourists from the Chinese mainland comprised the largest segment of international visitors to Vietnam, making up 25 percent of total foreign arrivals, which amounts to over 5.28 million travelers, according to local media outlet VnExpress.
This figure represents a significant 41 percent increase from the previous year, highlighting a strong recovery in the tourism sector. The National Statistics Office of Vietnam reported that South Korea ranked second in visitor numbers, contributing approximately 4.33 million tourists to the country during the same period.
Chinese tourists are particularly drawn to Vietnam due to its geographical proximity, favorable travel times, and a range of appealing attractions. From stunning landscapes to rich cultural experiences and culinary delights, Vietnam has positioned itself as a top destination for travelers from China.
Overall, Vietnam experienced a 20 percent year-on-year rise in international arrivals, reaching a total of 21.2 million visitors. The country’s tourism revenue was estimated at an impressive 1 quadrillion Vietnamese dong, approximately $39.8 billion.
This robust growth reflects Vietnam’s efforts to enhance its tourism infrastructure and marketing strategies, making it an increasingly popular choice for global travelers.
In 2025, the number of international visitors to Vietnam surged, driven by increased flights from key markets such as China, South Korea, Japan, and Europe.
For 2026, the industry is targeting even higher figures, with an expanded focus on long-haul markets and increasing domestic tourism.
Vietnam’s most popular tourism destinations, including Phu Quoc, Da Lat, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Nha Trang, with the new year holiday period having already seen 3.5 million visitors arriving across key cities and resorts from January 1–4.
Illegal gambling dens catering exclusively to Chinese nationals have emerged in Seoul, according to a report by Chosun Daily
These establishments in Garibong-dong, Guro-gu have proliferated as the number of Chinese residents and tourists in South Korea has increased.
An investigation revealed over 100 illegal gambling operations featuring slot machines and mahjong tables, all strictly barring Korean entry. Many of these dens are located in a dilapidated commercial building, which is owned by a descendant of an anti-Japanese independence activist, who claimed unawareness of the illegal activities.
The gambling dens permit only entry with a Chinese ID and are often hidden from public view with cardboard over the windows. One patron reported that many guests from the gambling den would occupy a nearby unregistered guesthouse after hours, which charges a daily fee.
As the population of Chinese Koreans aged, the number of these gambling dens has surged, particularly among middle-aged and elderly individuals marginalized from economic activities.
Data shows that the number of illegal gambling dens under police surveillance grew from 273 in 2022 to 909 in 2024, with enforcement actions becoming less effective due to the dens’ heavily guarded nature and organized operations.
Authorities find it challenging to gather evidence against these operations. The rise in illegal gambling reflects broader social issues facing aging overseas Korean populations in South Korea.
Macau gaming operators MGM China, Melco Resorts, and Wynn Macau have announced they will grant a discretionary bonus equivalent to one month’s salary to most of their staff, recognizing their contributions during 2025.
MGM said around 95 percent of team members will benefit, with payments scheduled to begin on January 21st, with Melco’s one-month discretionary bonus to be paid to all eligible non-management Colleagues in Macau and Hong Kong ‘by the end of January’.
“This is a gesture of appreciation for the dedication and hard work of our team,” said Pansy Ho, chairperson and executive director of MGM China.
“Reflecting on 2025, we carried forward the momentum of a new chapter by continuously optimizing our innovative products and service experiences, achieving steady progress in our business development.”
Ho added that MGM would continue to leverage its strengths with a focus on guests, guided by the philosophy of “Originality + Innovation.” “We remain dedicated to contributing to Macau’s positioning as a world‑class tourism and leisure hub through the ongoing introduction of more diversified tourism offerings,” she said.
Meanwhile Lawrence Ho, Chairman and CEO of Melco Resorts & Entertainment, said the discretionary bonus payment “acknowledges our Colleagues’ dedication and support throughout the past year”.
Wynn Macau announced that 98 percent of its current workforce is set to benefit from a special allowance, equivalent to one month’s gross salary, to be paid to full-time team members on January 30th.
Speaking of the bonus, Wynn Macau President and Vice Chairman Linda Chen noted “We are truly grateful for the efforts and contributions our team members have made over the past year, and we are pleased to announce a special allowance in recognition of their hard work”.
Prince Group Chairman Chen Zhi has been arrested in Cambodia and transferred to China for investigation, according to local media. The case has attracted international attention after U.S. authorities previously identified Chen as the alleged mastermind behind a vast online fraud and money laundering network operating across Southeast Asia. Prince Group, a Cambodian casino and hospitality conglomerate led by Chen, has been accused of using luxury hotels and casinos to launder billions of dollars from online scams, extortion, and forced labour. U.S. prosecutors have charged Chen with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering and have seized more than 127,000 bitcoins, valued at over $15 billion, linked to the alleged operations.
Macau’s gross gaming revenue is forecast to increase 19 percent year-on-year in January 2026, reaching approximately MOP21.73 billion ($2.71 billion), according to a new report from Seaport Research.
The strong start to the year follows a weaker-than-expectedDecember, where revenue grew 14.8 percent to MOP20.89 billion ($2.61 billion) as high rollers delayed trips into the first quarter.
Macau GGR 2025
Vitaly Umansky, senior analyst at Seaport, noted that the month has started with significant momentum, with daily revenue potentially exceeding MOP850 million ($106 million) during the January 1st to 4th holiday weekend. The 19 percent projected growth rate is partially attributed to an ‘easy comparison’ with January 2025.
‘Macau remains a secular growth market, driven by an increasing wealth effect in China with high propensity to gamble and increasing travel spend,’ Umansky stated in the report. He emphasized that the market’s trajectory is ‘driven largely by the high-end and the need for ease of money flow from China’.
The timing of the Chinese New Year will play a critical role in the first-quarter performance. The official holiday period is scheduled for February 16th to 22nd, with February 14th and 15th falling on a weekend. Consequently, Seaport forecasts that Macau’s gaming revenue will grow over 14 percent in the first quarter of 2026.
Looking ahead at the full year, Seaport estimates a 7 percent growth rate for 2026. This expansion is expected to be supported by eased visa issuance policies and continued money flows from mainland China.
While the premium segment remains the primary engine of growth, Umansky noted that ‘any pick-up on overnight base mass will further increase growth’ and benefit operators with greater room capacity, such as Sands China and Galaxy Entertainment.
Despite recent volatility in stock prices due to geopolitical concerns, Seaport maintains a positive outlook on the sector. The firm argues that current valuations for the primary Macau operators remain ‘largely too low,’ presenting a strong risk-to-reward positioning for investors as the market continues its long-term recovery.
As the iGaming industry enters 2026, award-winning platform and aggregator Groove Technologies is reflecting on a transformative 2025 defined by strategic expansion, technological innovation, and deepening global roots.
Throughout 2025, Groove has solidified its role not just as a content provider, but as a comprehensive growth engine for operators worldwide.
A key strategic hire set the tone for this ambitious growth phase. Groove brought on experienced Business Development Director, Giusy Campo, to lead its charge into new regulated markets. With a proven track record of building sustainable partnerships in complex jurisdictions, Campo’s mandate was to structure and accelerate the company’s global commercial strategy, directly translating platform capabilities into new business.
The company’s platform experienced remarkable growth, welcoming over 20 new game providers and onboarding approximately 10 new operator partners. This expansion was particularly strong in two of the industry’s most dynamic sectors: the fast-growing Sweepstakes market and the innovative Crypto gaming space.
“The narrative of 2025 for us is one of balanced, strategic growth,” said Rachel Tourgeman, Head of Partnerships at Groove Technologies. “We didn’t just chase scale in one direction. We strengthened our core aggregation, made decisive moves into high-potential verticals like sweepstakes and crypto, and planted our flag in crucial new territories. Bringing Giusy onboard was a deliberate move to ensure our expansion into regulated markets was led with expertise and precision. It’s a multi-front expansion that proves the versatility and resilience of our platform model.”
Brazil and LatAm expansion
A headline achievement for the year was the securing of a license to operate in Brazil. This strategic milestone, coupled with Groove’s established regulated activity in Argentina, marks the beginning of a concerted push into Latin America, a key focus area for the business development team.
Yahale Meltzer, Co-Founder and COO of Groove Technologies
“Brazil isn’t just another market; it’s a statement of intent,” added Yahale Meltzer, Co-Founder and COO of Groove Technologies. “Securing this license, alongside our work in Argentina, is the foundation. With Giusy Campo leading our business development, we are systematically building the partnerships necessary for long-term success in regulated regions. This is the first chapter of our LATAM story.”
2025 saw Groove transition from a powerful aggregation platform to a more complete engagement ecosystem with the launch of its proprietary Instant Tournaments tool. A significant milestone was making both Free Round Bonus (FRB) and Tournament features fully manageable through the intuitive Groove Command Back Office.
“This was a pivotal shift for our partners,” explained Yahale Meltzer. “We moved powerful gamification from a technical request to a self-service marketing tool. Empowering operators to launch their own tournaments and promotions in minutes is a game-changer for player retention. Consider this the first major module in a broader suite of engagement tools we’re building for 2026.”
Demonstrating the versatility of its platform, Groove expanded its portfolio through a notable partnership with Azerolotereya, the national lottery of Azerbaijan. This collaboration, spearheaded by the business development team, strengthens Groove’s presence in the world of regulated, government-backed operations, opening a new avenue for stable, long-term growth.
To support its expanding ambitions, Groove significantly scaled its global operations. The company now maintains offices in key hubs including Israel, Georgia, and Malta, and has added staff throughout the year to maintain its renowned 24/7 multilingual technical and account services. The Groove team showcased this global footprint at 10 major industry events across four continents, from ICE Barcelona and iGB London to SiGMA Brazil and NEXT Dubai.
In a year of multi-faceted growth, the guiding principle for Groove’s leadership has been the synthesis of a clear vision with disciplined execution. For Yahale Meltzer, Co-Founder and COO, each strategic move in 2025 was a deliberate step in building a more resilient and valuable platform for partners.
“True platform growth isn’t measured by a single metric, but by the compound effect of strategic choices,” Meltzer reflected. “Adding 20 providers strengthens our content core, but doing so while simultaneously securing a license in Brazil, adding seasoned leadership like Giusy to target regulated growth, and launching our own Instant Tournaments tool, that’s what builds a multidimensional growth engine.”
He continued: “Our expansion into sweepstakes and crypto wasn’t opportunistic; it was a response to clear partner demand in evolving markets. Similarly, a partnership with a national lottery like Azerolotereya isn’t just a new client, it validates the robustness and compliance of our platform in the most stringent environments, exactly the markets our business development strategy is focused on.”
Meltzer views the company’s global presence, from its expanded offices to its presence at ten global events, as the essential infrastructure for trust. “Our physical and active presence in key regions, backed by 24/7 multilingual support and a dedicated business development function for regulated markets, isn’t an overhead cost; it’s the foundation of our partnership promise. When an operator in Georgia or a new partner in São Paulo has a question, they get an answer from someone who understands their market context, not just their technical issue. This year, we ensured our operational and commercial scale finally matches our platform’s capabilities.”
Looking forward, Meltzer sees 2025’s advances as foundational. “The launch of our Instant Tournaments tool via the Groove Command Back Office is symbolic of our next phase. We’re moving from providing ‘access to games’ to providing ‘control over engagement.’ With a strengthened team and a clear roadmap for regulated market expansion, we are primed to deliver even more power in 2026.”
