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Angel Smart Tables to showcase innovation at Pitch! @ Regulating the Game 2026, Sydney

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Regulating the Game has announced Angel Smart Tables as the next innovation selected to appear at Pitch!, the high-energy showcase of bold ideas and practical solutions shaping the future of gambling, gaming and wagering.

Pitch! will take place at the Sydney Opera House on 9 March 2026 as part of Regulating the Game 2026 Sydney, and is designed to surface technology that can genuinely shift regulatory outcomes — innovations that respond to real-world challenges, strengthen integrity, and deliver the capability uplift regulators and operators are seeking. Angel Smart Tables exemplify that purpose.

Closing the fundamental data gap in table games

Poker machines have long provided operators with rich, accurate behavioural and transactional data to support safer gambling, player protection and regulatory compliance. Table games, by contrast, have been trapped in a legacy model — reliant on dealer observations, manual recording and subjective assessments. The resulting data is often inconsistent, incomplete, and insufficient for proper decision-making.

Angel has changed that.

Smart Tables, Smart gaming tables, Casino Industry, Angel Group, Angel Playing Cards, APAC

The company has developed and deployed a Smart Table technology solution that uses video-assisted artificial intelligence to generate granular, accurate, player-level data across table games. The system captures, in real time:

• Buy-ins;
• Betting patterns and stake sizes across all tables and all betting sessions;
• Time on table;
• Win/loss and turnover;
• Full historical play patterns for individual patrons.

For the first time, operators have access to reliable, auditable data from table games — data capable of supporting meaningful harm minimisation, accurate player assessment, informed interventions, and stronger regulatory compliance.

A decade of investment now reshaping APAC

Angel’s Smart Table platform is the product of ten years of development, combining AI and RFID modules with flexible configurations to meet different regulatory environments. The technology is already deployed in Macau, Singapore, the Philippines and Australia, with further installations underway in New Zealand and interest emerging from new gaming markets.

Angel, smart table, RFID, AI, Angel Playing Cards

Casinos are using the system to enhance game security, detect counterfeit chips and past-posting, optimise table operations, and gain detailed insight into patron behaviour — capabilities previously unavailable to operators and regulators alike.

“Across Australia, regulatory expectations have shifted dramatically. The inquiries, independent monitoring and comprehensive remediation programs of recent years have made one thing absolutely clear: operators need accurate, verifiable table-game data. Traditional manual systems simply can’t meet the evidentiary standards now required under AML/CTF supervision or emerging harm-minimisation frameworks.”

Bryan Jenkins, Managing Director, Angel Australasia

A natural fit for Pitch!

Pitch! @ Regulating the Game 2026

“Angel’s Smart Table technology speaks directly to the sector’s most pressing challenge — reliable data for player protection and regulatory assurance,” said Paul Newson, Principal at Vanguard Overwatch and founder of Regulating the Game. “Pitch! exists to bring forward practical innovations that strengthen integrity and capability across regulated environments. Angel’s solution is precisely the kind of transformational uplift the sector needs.”

Pitch! will bring Angel’s technology before an audience of regulators, policymakers, operators and international delegates — a forum built to accelerate regulatory capability and support safer gambling outcomes.

Million Games launches Goblin Brew in partnership with Yugo Workshop

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Million Games has announced the release of Goblin Brew, a mischievous 5×5 fantasy slot developed by Yugo Workshop through the Million Stars partner programme.

Set in a dimly lit goblin tavern, Goblin Brew combines light-hearted fantasy with rewarding gameplay, offering Free Spins, Expanding Wilds, and a unique progression system that keeps every round unpredictable.

Landing 3 or more Beer Scatters triggers the Goblin Gold Spins, where silver coins grant extra spins and gold coins increase the global multiplier. As players collect more coins, low-paying symbols are removed, paving the way for higher wins and an electric build-up toward the maximum payout of 5,000x the bet.

Goblin Brew has all the ingredients for a fun, rewarding slot,” said Thomas Nimstad, CEO of Million Games. “It’s visually rich, mechanically engaging, and delivers a player experience that balances excitement with accessibility. Yugo Workshop has done a fantastic job of capturing that perfect mix.”

With a 96.11% RTP and medium volatility, Goblin Brew offers approachable yet high-value gameplay that fits perfectly into modern casino portfolios.

Daily Asia Gaming eBrief: Wynn Al Marjan Island gains investor traction

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Good Morning. Tiger’s eye. Wynn Al Marjan Island rises from the sand and sea, propped up by billions in investment that will see it become the UAE’s first integrated resort. And investors are heady for the possibilities, seeing exactly how and why the property can gain from the shift it is prompting in the emirate’s tourism sphere, with Wynn acting as a magnet. Looking further abroad, Vietnam aims to streamline its casino regulations, after the recent expansion of its locals gaming program. The country hopes to remove roadblocks and forge ahead, seeing exactly how the market responds.

What you need to know


On the radar


AGB Intelligence

Wynn Al Marjan Island, view from the pool, project render, Wynn Resorts

Wynn Al Marjan gaining traction with investors: analysts

Wynn’s confidence in its new project in the UAE, in Ras Al Khaimah, has gained not only the support of its shareholders but also that of analysts, with Deutsche Bank saying that its recent showcase knocked their socks off. The property is slated for an early 2027 opening and has already highlighted multiple features, despite little info on its casino, but there are high hopes for GGR once the property is ramped up.

Industry Updates


INTELLIGENCEASEAN | CAREERS | EVENTS

SOFTSWISS secures triple victory at Malta iGaming Affiliate Awards 2025

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SOFTSWISS has been honored at the Malta iGaming Affiliate Awards 2025, winning three titles: Best Sportsbook Supplier of the Year for the SOFTSWISS Sportsbook, Marketing Campaign of the Year for its ‘Hungry for Success’ campaign, and Best Affiliate Software of the Year for Affilka by SOFTSWISS.

The SOFTSWISS Sportsbook’s award highlights its rapid progress since launching just five years ago. The product is fully platform-agnostic, integrating with any casino setup and supporting rapid rollouts in under 14 days. With more than 2,000 betting markets, a mobile-first design, and a growing set of engagement tools, including the industry’s first Sportsbook Network Jackpot, the solution continues to attract operators seeking stability and rapid scalability.

Affilka by SOFTSWISS continues to strengthen its position as one of the industry’s most trusted affiliate platforms. Its transparent reporting, flexible commission tools, and intuitive interface make it a reliable choice for operators and affiliates. Recent enhancements, such as the Geo-Distributed Redirect feature, Cohort Analysis Report, and new API updates for marketing campaigns and tracking links, have further improved Affilka’s performance and usability, helping partners manage campaigns more efficiently.

The ‘Hungry for Success’ creative campaign made a strong impression at ICE Barcelona 2025. Centred around a bold shark concept symbolising precision and leadership, it combined striking visuals with an immersive live activation. Renowned Spanish street artist Slim Safont created a shark-themed mural live at the venue, turning the concept into an interactive experience that drew consistent attention throughout the show. The campaign significantly boosted SOFTSWISS’ digital visibility and strengthened the brand’s awareness through high engagement and above-plan performance results.

Valentina Bagniya, CMO, Softswiss
Valentina Bagniya, CMO at SOFTSWISS

Valentina Bagniya, Chief Marketing Officer at SOFTSWISS, shared: “These three awards reflect our strategic commitment to creating real value for the industry. For operators, our Sportsbook consistently proves itself as a powerful and flexible solution that integrates seamlessly into any iGaming product. Affilka has established itself as one of the most effective tools for managing affiliate partnerships and driving high-quality traffic. Meanwhile, the ‘Hungry for Success’ campaign serves as another example of how SOFTSWISS stands out in a highly competitive market and strengthens brand engagement.”

Beyond its award-winning products and marketing achievements, SOFTSWISS continues to make significant contributions to the industry’s knowledge. Its newly released 2026 iGaming Trends report provides a data-driven, expert analysis of the forces shaping iGaming next year, offering operators valuable insights for informed strategic decisions.

Sands China celebrates 10 years of supporting local SMEs with Supplier Excellence Awards Gala

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Marking a decade of partnership and progress, Sands China celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Local Small, Medium and Micro Suppliers Support Programme with a ceremony at The Londoner Macao, accompanied by the launch of a commemorative booklet showcasing inspiring success stories.

The event also featured the 2025 Sands Supplier Excellence Awards to honour outstanding suppliers, appreciation certificates to recognise long-term suppliers, and a cocktail and business networking session to further connect local businesses and company representatives for future cooperation opportunities.

The Local SME Suppliers Support Programme: 10 Years of SME Empowerment

As the largest integrated tourism and leisure enterprise in Macao, Sands China has long championed a development model that enables large and small businesses to thrive together, introducing a variety of effective measures to foster the steady growth of SMEs. The Local Small, Medium and Micro Suppliers Support Programme, co-launched in 2015 with the Macao Chamber of Commerce, is a landmark programme under this vision.

The programme launched as Macao’s first SME-focused initiative led by a tourism and leisure enterprise, and targets three types of local businesses: small and micro suppliers, “Made in Macao” companies and Macao young entrepreneurs. It aims to support the Macao SAR government’s SME policies while further strengthening Sands China’s commitment to local business development. Its key projects include the F.I.T. programme, introduced in 2017, which provides financial support, invitational matching, as well as training and development to help local SME suppliers upskill and expand their business opportunities.

Since its inception, the programme has successfully deepened collaboration with local SMEs, generating remarkable results: a total of MOP 119.4 billion in procurement, with local procurement accounting for 83 percent, involving 4,700 SMEs.

The event unveiled the programme’s 10th anniversary booklet – outlining a decade of development and success stories – intended to inspire the city’s SMEs to attain greater achievements.

Sands China celebrates 10 years of supporting local SMEs with Supplier Excellence Awards Gala

“SMEs are a vital pillar of Macao’s economy, securing the foundation of the city’s diversified industries,” said Grant Chum, chief executive officer and executive director of Sands China Ltd. “For more than 20 years, Sands China has remained committed to supporting the growth of local SMEs by leading the industry in prioritising local procurement, building promotional platforms for local businesses, and sharing our business expertise and experience to help them achieve independent development.

“In addition to recognising outstanding suppliers, we would also like to take this opportunity to honour and extend our heartfelt gratitude to our 40 long-term business partners. We sincerely thank the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao SAR, the Macao SAR Government, and all sectors of society for their longstanding guidance and support. We are likewise grateful for the enduring collaboration of the Macao Chamber of Commerce, whose dedication has helped numerous local SMEs grow from seedlings into flourishing enterprises. We look forward to continuing our partnership and achieving even greater shared successes in the years to come.”

Ma Chi Ngai, president of the board of directors of the Macao Chamber of Commerce, added: “Ten years ago, the Macao Chamber of Commerce partnered with Sands China to launch the local SME support programme, applying the philosophy of supporting the development of local SME suppliers and prioritising local procurement, opening a new chapter of symbiotic growth between integrated tourism and leisure enterprise and local SMEs. Through a series of innovative support measures, including large-scale exhibition platforms, professional training, and technical guidance, we have built a comprehensive support system to help SMEs enhance their capabilities.

Together, we have faced market changes and challenges side by side, forming a cooperative ecosystem of complementary strengths and mutual benefit. Looking ahead, we will continue to support the Macao SAR government in helping local SMEs explore new pathways in digital transformation, brand upgrading, and international expansion, contributing our efforts toward Macao’s economic diversification.”

At the event, Sands China executives presented certificates of appreciation to 40 SME partners – many of whom have worked with the company for over two decades. The certificates were presented by Dr. Wilfred Wong, executive vice chairman of Sands China Ltd.; Grant Chum; Dave Sun, executive vice president and chief financial officer of Sands China Ltd. and managing director of Venetian Macau Limited; and Norbert Riezler, senior vice president and chief procurement officer of Las Vegas Sands Corp.

2025 Sands Supplier Excellence Awards

Sands China celebrates 10 years of supporting local SMEs with Supplier Excellence Awards Gala

The Sands Supplier Excellence Awards are an annual initiative of Las Vegas Sands Corp., acknowledging the cooperation and services of some of Sands’ most noteworthy suppliers worldwide. A judging committee composed of Sands China executive management selects Macao’s award recipients each year. At Tuesday’s ceremony, Sands China awarded seven winners:

  • Corporate Culture & Sustainability: China Travel Service (Macao) Ltd
  • Innovation: Tech (Macau) Limited
  • Cost Management: Companhia de Obras de Decoracoes Wai Yun Lda.
  • Quality Management: Anglo-East Trading Co. (HK) Limited
  • Project Management: Vodatel Holdings Ltd
  • Service Excellence: Express Marine Electronics Company Limited
  • Small/Medium Enterprise (SME): Hight Tea International Development Company Limited

Guests at the event included: Sun Yaohua, director of the Economic Affairs Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao SAR; Yau Yun Wah, director of the Economic and Technological Development Bureau of the Macao SAR government; Ma Chi Ngai; Victoria Kuan, director-general of the Macau Productivity and Technology Centre; Sam Lei, acting president of the Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute of the Macao Special Administrative Region; Paulo Coutinho, director and editor-in-chief of Macau Daily Times; and Lam Io Meng, deputy general manager of Macao Daily News.

Following the ceremony, a group of local enterprises joined a cocktail and business networking session to connect with representatives from various Sands China departments, including procurement and supply chain. Sessions like these over the years have enabled Sands China and local suppliers to explore and develop new mutually beneficial partnerships.

Sands China remains committed to prioritising local procurement and supporting the long-term growth of Macao’s SMEs, as an integral part of the company’s corporate social responsibility.

1xAffiliates expands partnerships and networking opportunities at Affiliate World Asia 2025

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1xAffiliates made a strong presence at Affiliate World Asia 2025 in Bangkok (December 3–4), one of the industry’s premier gatherings for partners and the iGaming community. The team welcomed attendees at its booth, showcasing current offers and strengthening relationships with partners.

1xAffiliates’ participation at Affiliate World Asia 2025 was a significant step in strengthening the brand’s presence in the Asian region. The significance of their presence was underscored by the Affiliate Space Awards ceremony, where the brand won the award for Best Online Casino Operator.

In addition to attending the ceremony, 1xAffiliates showcased booth D76 featuring space for business meetings, networking, and a bar area serving coffee and drinks.

1xAffiliates showcases strategic partnerships and networking at Affiliate World Asia 2025

The brand managers explained the benefits of partnering and key features of the affiliate program, which has been running for over nine years, covering more than 150 countries, and supporting over 250 payment methods. Partners receive lifetime payments of up to 50% RevShare, flexible monetization models, and personal support.

Visitor interest in the booth was boosted by prize giveaways – an iPhone 17 Pro Max and a MacBook Pro M5. The activity attracted a large audience and was a nice bonus for partners who visited booth D76.

1xAffiliates’ presence at Affiliate World Asia 2025 allowed the brand to strengthen connections with the affiliate community and showcase solutions tailored to the Asian market. The event format provided opportunities to reinforce partner relationships, establish new business contacts, and share professional experience. These outcomes will form the foundation for further growth of 1xAffiliates and expansion in the region.

Continent 8 names Julia Weygandt as Head of Client Growth & New Business

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Continent 8 Technologies has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Julia Weygandt as Head of Client Growth & New Business, driving expansion across the iGaming and sports betting industries.

Based in Malta, Julia will spearhead strategic initiatives to drive customer growth and capture new market opportunities globally, working closely with the existing Sales team and Practice Leads. 

Julia brings over 20 years of experience in gaming, entertainment, and technology, with a proven track record in commercial strategy, international market expansion, and strategic partnerships. Her career includes senior roles such as COO at G Games and Tornado Games, and Head of International Partnerships at GAMOMAT, where she successfully scaled operations and delivered significant revenue growth. 

Julia is an active advocate for diversity and leadership in gaming, serving as a Board member for Global Gaming Women and leading partnerships for the Behind the Gloves initiative, which combines boxing and corporate engagement to support charitable causes.

Nick Nally, Chief Revenue Officer at Continent 8 Technologies, commented: “Julia’s appointment reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional value and growth opportunities for our customers. Her deep industry knowledge, commercial acumen, and passion for building strong partnerships make her an outstanding addition to our team. We are excited to see the impact she will have as we continue to expand globally.”

Julia Weygandt, Head of Client Growth & New Business, commented on her new role: “I’ve known the Continent 8 team for a long time; they are a trusted and respected partner to the world’s leading iGaming operators and suppliers, and I am thrilled to join at such an exciting time. My focus will be on driving client success through innovative solutions and strategic growth initiatives, ensuring we continue to lead in this fast-evolving industry.”

Julia Weygandt and the Continent 8 team will be at ICE Barcelona, 19-21 January at Stand 2Q20. To arrange a meeting, please visit https://lp.continent8.com/ice-barcelona-2026.

Aviatrix partners with PlugNPlay to broaden operator access worldwide

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Innovative crash game Aviatrix has struck a deal with next-generation casino aggregator PlugNPlay to broaden its reach among operators worldwide.

The agreement means that brands that use PlugNPlay’s popular casino aggregator solution will gain instant access to Aviatrix without the requirement for additional integrations.

The partnership will significantly boost Aviatrix’s distribution, especially in fast-growing markets across Latin America, starting with Brazil.

Anastasia Rimskaya, Chief Account Officer at Aviatrix, said: “We’re always looking for new ways to make Aviatrix more accessible to operators and players, and partnering with PlugNPlay is a big step forward. Their seamless aggregation platform and strong operator network mean this partnership will help us reach an even larger audience.”

Marcus Oliveira, CCO at PlugNPlay, added: “Aviatrix is one of the most talked-about crash games in the industry right now, and we’re thrilled to bring it to our partners. The game’s engagement mechanics offer something genuinely different, and we’re confident it will be a hit with players across the board.”

Since launching a little over two years ago, Aviatrix has become one of the industry’s biggest smash hit crash games. The team behind the title constantly roll out new improvements, keeping it fresh for an ever-growing pool of players.

SJM Resorts donates MOP700K to support Tung Sin Tong’s annual fundraising campaign 

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Macau gaming operator SJM Resorts continues its longstanding  commitment to public welfare by actively supporting charitable initiatives in Macau.

This  year, SJM donated MOP700,000 to the Tung Sin Tong annual fundraising campaign, joining  hands with the organisation to demonstrate support and promote care and positivity within  the community. 

The cheque presentation ceremony was held at Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau. Ms. Daisy  Ho, Managing Director of SJM, and Ms. Angela Leong, Director of SJM and Chairman of  the Staff Welfare Consultative Committee, presented the donation to Tung Sin Tong,  represented by Mr. José Chui Sai Peng, President; Mr. Jeffrey Vong, Vice President; Mr.  Charles M. Choy and Mr. Celso Sou, Directors. 

Ms Daisy Ho, Managing Director of SJM, stated, “SJM collaborates with various social  service organisations in Macau to assist those in need in the community. As a long-term  partner of Tung Sin Tong, we consistently support its programmes, bringing warmth and care  throughout the city and working together to build a more blessed Macau.” 

Vietnam seeks to simplify financial-capacity rules as it updates 2017 local-access casino decree

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The move comes just weeks after the government approved permanent locals gaming at Phu Quoc’s Corona Resort & Casino and authorised The Grand Ho Tram to admit Vietnamese citizens under a new five-year pilot scheme.

The draft decree outlines revised rules for permitting Vietnamese citizens aged 21 and older to enter and play at casinos, while streamlining administrative processes. Existing eligibility requirements would remain: players must have full civil act capacity, demonstrate financial capability, purchase an entry ticket, and not appear on a family-requested or self-exclusion list. They would also be required to use Vietnamese Dong (VND) for chip purchases, with refunds available for unused chips.

According to the ministry, these conditions have proven effective in regulating local participation without major enforcement issues. However, the financial-proof requirement has become a practical challenge, often obliging players to submit multiple documents and creating administrative burdens for both customers and operators.

In its evaluation of the current decree, the ministry said Vietnam’s casino regulatory system remains comprehensive: covering licensing, importation of gaming equipment, public security oversight, and foreign exchange controls. Even so, officials argue that several provisions need updating or expansion to reflect new policy directions and improve regulatory efficiency.

The ministry noted that the proposed decree is intended to address practical needs and enhance policy coherence as the market continues to develop.

Corona Resort & Casino, Phu Quoc, Vietnam

The report also stated that Vietnam currently has nine operational casinos—six small-scale properties and three large integrated resorts—with two additional projects under construction. Major venues are located in Ho Tram, Hoi An, and Phu Quoc.

From 2017 to 2022, the casino sector generated VND22.89 trillion ($950 million) in revenue and contributed VND11.81 trillion ($490 million) to the state budget. The industry recorded a downturn between 2019 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Phu Quoc’s casino operated a pilot locals-gaming program from 2019 to 2024. During this period, Vietnamese players accounted for 52 percent of total visitation but generated 88 percent of revenue, with most customers being men aged 30 to 49.

The new five-year pilot scheme also covers the future $2 billion Van Don Integrated Casino & Tourism Complex, planned for development in a special economic zone (SEZ) in Quang Ninh Province on Vietnam’s northeastern coast. According to the developer’s latest update, the resort is slated to be fully operational by 2032.