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The Future of Gaming Technology and Advertising | ASEAN 2025

Media buying a digital marketing strategies are a huge priority, with companies aiming to one-up each other left and right. This top group of panelists at the ASEAN Gaming Summit explores how the landscape has shifted, and what that means in terms of user behavior, looking at how to stand out amongst the crowd.

The panelists delve into the ongoing transformations brought about by changes in user behavior, the increasing importance of data analytics, and the new strategies that operators must adopt to thrive in competitive markets.

Key focal points include the significance of real-time data in marketing decisions, especially within the gaming and casino sectors, as well as the necessity of understanding and embracing hyper-personalization in advertising strategies. With the rise of influencers and streamers within the gaming culture, traditional advertising is being challenged as companies learn to communicate authentically with their target audiences.

Additionally, the conversation delves into the unique challenges faced by new startups in the Asian market, where localized strategies and cultural nuances play crucial roles in establishing successful operations. Various tools and technologies to manage user data, optimize advertising efforts, and improve customer retention come to the forefront as best practices for achieving competitive advantage in an increasingly data-driven environment.

Highlights

  • Transformation in Marketing: The transition from traditional advertising strategies to data-driven approaches for effective media buying.
  • Real-Time Data Importance: How the timely analysis of user data can enhance marketing strategies in real time, ensuring engagement is on-point.
  • Influencer Impact: The significant role of gaming influencers and streamers in shaping brand perceptions and user trust within the casino market.
  • Hyper-Personalization: Moving beyond segmented campaigns to create tailored experiences for individual users based on their behavior and preferences.
  • Cultural Adaptation: The necessity for gambling operators to adapt marketing strategies based on regional cultural factors, particularly in the diverse Asia market.
  • Advances in Technology: The importance of a robust tech stack to leverage data effectively and drive actionable insights in marketing strategies.
  • Strategies for Success: Key takeaways for new operators in the Asian market on how to navigate the competitive landscape successfully.

Key Insights

  • Changing User Behavior: The discussion highlights that the way users interact with media has evolved significantly; they frequently seek information and validation through platforms like YouTube and Twitch before making a purchase. This shift demands that companies adopt strategies that leverage influencers to build trust and resonate with their audience authentically.
  • The Ineffectiveness of Traditional Advertising: It is strongly suggested that many current advertising platforms are failing to deliver accurate data, leading to ineffective campaigns. Adapting to new consumer expectations and forms of media—such as engaging content shared by trusted figures—will be critical for companies to remain relevant.
  • Data-Driven Strategies: Data is portrayed as both a challenge and an opportunity, with the potential to unlock valuable insights if harnessed properly. Companies that invest in understanding their competition and the broader market will be able to position themselves effectively and drive growth.
  • Real-Time Marketing Necessity: The concept of “real-time marketing” is explored, emphasizing that businesses need to engage with users based on immediate data. Proactive strategies that address user behavior can help prevent churn and improve customer retention.
  • Tech Stack for Efficiency: New technologies allow operators to manage vast amounts of data and extract actionable insights with agility. Investing in the right tech stack can support businesses in making informed decisions quickly, keeping them competitive in a fast-paced environment.
  • Navigating Regulatory Challenges: New entrants to the online gambling space must navigate complex regulatory environments and understand localized market demands. Tailoring offerings to fit specific cultural contexts will enhance the likelihood of success in diverse markets in Asia.
  • Creative Advertisements: The emphasis on innovative advertising strategies is vital to avoid irritability among consumers. Programs that blend genuine storytelling with brand objectives will resonate more with audiences who are increasingly desensitized to traditional ad formats.

Through the group’s presentation, it is clear that adaptation, real-time data utilization, and an understanding of cultural nuances will drive businesses forward in the media buying landscape while attracting and retaining customers effectively. The changes in consumer behavior and technological advancement require an evolution in strategy from traditional methods to a more integrated, data-driven approach shaped by user experiences and cultural insights.

Live Tables and ETGs – The Smart and Intelligent Gambit | ASEAN 2025

A top panel of experts at the ASEAN Gaming Summit discuss the potential for the ETG industry and smart tables industry. Moderator Peter Johns guides a session with APE’s Executive Director Maria Garcia, Paltronic’s VP of Australasian Operation -Casinos Kylie Rogers, Dragon Royale’s General Manager David Lawrence and Light & Wonder’s Senior ETG Product Manager Luigi Aslarona.

The Philippines has experienced a 15-20 percent growth in gaming Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR), with numerous new casinos and heightened regulatory support. Key industry players—including representatives from Paltronics, Light & Wonder, Asia Pioneer Entertainment, and Dragon Royale—provide their expertise on jackpot systems, electronic gaming machines, integration of new technologies, and the evolving player experience. A notable focus is placed on how innovations are shaping the future of gaming, improving efficiency, and how they align with changing player demographics and preferences.

Highlights

  • Significant Growth: The Philippines sees a 15-20% increase in the gaming industry.
  • Technological Innovation: Developments in Electronic Table Games (ETGs) and smart tables are reviewed.
  • Diverse Panel: The expert panel consists of over 100 years of combined gaming experience, showcasing industry diversity.
  • Industry Leaders: Key discussions about major vendors and their contributions to the sector were well shared by panelists.
  • Future Outlook: The conversation addresses future growth opportunities and potential challenges for operators.
  • Player-Centric Focus: Emphasis on adapting to the younger generation’s preferences is spotlighted.
  • Integration of Technology: The benefits of integrating RFID, AI, and other technologies in gaming environments are discussed.

Key Insights

  • Market Growth and Future Prospects: The Philippines’ gaming landscape is on an upward trajectory, predicted to continue evolving positively with new casinos and technology integration. Industry experts underscore the importance of adapting to these changes through innovation and customer feedback.
  • Advance in Electronic Table Games (ETGs): ETGs are becoming increasingly popular, offering a hybrid gaming experience with enhanced player engagement. This trend reflects the market’s transition toward digitized and automated solutions that appeal to a diverse range of customers.
  • Diversity in Leadership: The panel showcases a gender-diverse representation of industry leaders, indicating a shift in the traditionally male-dominated gaming sector. Women’s perspectives in technology and business practices are becoming more prominent, reflecting broader inclusivity trends.
  • Global Influence and Local Adaptation: Panelists stress the importance of global lessons learned regarding player preferences and technology implementations. Adapting these strategies to fit the local Filipino market, which has distinct cultural and gaming trends, will be crucial.
  • Operators’ Challenges and Opportunities: Casino operators face the dual challenge of adopting new technologies while maintaining traditional player experiences. Balancing innovation with familiar gameplay is essential to retaining existing customers and attracting new ones.
  • The Shift Towards Player-Centric Solutions: There’s a growing emphasis on understanding younger generations’ desires for seamless, engaging experiences. Operators are encouraged to focus on what current and future players value, which includes technology that enhances gameplay.
  • Collaboration Over Competition: The discussions encourage collaboration between technology vendors and operators to create a cohesive system that benefits everyone involved. This collective strategy is expected to yield better overall results for customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

In summary, the future of gaming in the Philippines looks promising with enthusiastic engagement in emerging technologies and innovations from a diverse panel of experts. This signifies not only growth but also a necessary evolution in aligning with player preferences and operational competency. The insights shared within the video offer a compass for industry stakeholders to navigate this dynamism, suggesting that success lies in innovation, collaboration, and a player-centric focus.

Thai entertainment complex bill final vote pushed to Sept-Oct following recent delay: Legal expert

As Thailand moves forward with its legislative process for the proposed entertainment complex bill, the final vote in the Lower House could only take place between September and October of this year, following a recent delay, Akkaraporn Muangsobha, a lawyer and partner at R&T Asia (Thailand) Limited, told AGB.

The bill received cabinet approval on March 27th, but the country’s Parliament has not yet been officially notified of its submission timeline.

Then this week, Thai authorities decided to postpone the parliamentary debate on the bill amid mounting opposition and a concerning international trade environment.

Still, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emphasized that the government is not withdrawing the proposal, with the bill to maybe be “presented to the parliament in its next session” she said.

“The legislative process will involve several critical stages, including a detailed review by an appointed committee during the Bill’s second reading,” Muangsobha explained.

Prior to this decision, the Bangkok-based lawyer had predicted that this stage was expected to take “approximately two to three months, with the final vote in the Lower House anticipated around June or July this year.”

However, with the next legislative session only on July 3rd, that timeline would have to be “pushed back for three months” possibly until October, Muangsobha told AGB.

“[The issue has] become a political agenda and the opposing party has rallied social media to oppose the bill […] [The passing of the IR bill] has become more difficult now and there will be a lot of challenges moving forward” the lawyer warned.

Contentious issues remain

One of the contentious points in the current draft is the requirement for individuals to maintain a minimum balance of THB50 million ($1.5 million) in a bank account over the past six months.

Thai
Akkaraporn Muangsobha

However, Muangsobha noted that “both the Deputy Finance Minister and the Prime Minister have expressed the view that this criterion should be revised.”

They have suggested that tax records could serve as a more equitable measure of financial standing, indicating a potential shift in the bill’s requirements.

“While it seems likely that this requirement will be removed during the committee stage, the final outcome remains uncertain at this point,” the Bangkok-based lawyer added.

Public sensitivity

Regarding access to casinos for Thai nationals, Muangsobha highlighted that “age restrictions and an entry levy alone may not be deemed sufficient.”

Given the heightened public sensitivity surrounding this issue, the lawyer anticipates that “additional entry conditions are likely to be introduced.” However, the specifics of these conditions will only become clearer once discussions take place in Parliament.

According to the lawyer, another area of consensus appears to be the limitation on the size of the casino within the entertainment complex.

“The draft law reflects agreement that the casino space must not exceed 10 percent of the complex’s total area—a position that seems to be well accepted across the board,” Muangsobha stated.

Additionally, the draft introduces new provisions prohibiting junket operations, with penalties for non-compliance. It also classifies entertainment complexes as financial institutions under the Anti-Money Laundering Act, meaning they will be required to fully comply with Thailand’s anti-money laundering regulations.

According to previous reports, Phuket is one of the selected cities for Thailand’s entertainment complex project, alongside Bangkok, Chon Buri, and Chiang Mai.


Spotlight Sports Group collaborates with Ascot Racecourse to elevate horseracing experience

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Spotlight Sports Group (SSG), a world-leading technology, content, and media company specializing in horseracing and sports betting fan engagement, has announced a strategic partnership with Ascot Racecourse to enhance the horseracing experience for fans through the launch of the Smart View product. 

The collaboration debuted during Ascot’s Howden Christmas Racing Weekend in December and has been live across subsequent fixtures, where it has been well-received by racegoers.

This innovative partnership will leverage Spotlight Sports Group’s cutting-edge Smart View technology to create an engaging and immersive experience for a broader audience, including recreational horseracing attendees. The product will feature as part of Ascot’s printed racecard product, in-house self-service betting terminals (SSBT’s), Tipster Board and across “Bet with Ascot” screens to supply multiple touchpoints for racegoers.

Smart View simplifies traditional racecards, blending data insights with visually intuitive designs inspired by video games such as FIFA and Football Manager. By presenting complex race information in a more accessible format, the product aims to captivate both seasoned bettors and newcomers.

Tony May, Senior Betting Manager at Ascot Racecourse, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration: “At Ascot, we are always looking for ways to make horse racing more accessible and easier to understand for our on course audience. Smart View does this in a really engaging, modern way and we are excited to be working with Spotlight Sports Group to present Smart View across the racecourse in a way that helps racegoers learn more about the sport and hopefully become more regular followers.”

Sam Houlding, Managing Director of B2B at Spotlight Sports Group, highlighted the strategic fit of the partnership: “We’re delighted to partner with Ascot Racecourse, a venue synonymous with world-class horseracing. Launching Smart View at such a prestigious racecourse is a testament to our shared commitment to innovation and horseracing fan engagement. We look forward to helping Ascot captivate its audience and expand fans’ connection with the sport.”

Blueprint Gaming secures Swiss market entry with Swiss Casinos

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Blueprint Gaming, a prominent UK-based slots developer and part of the Merkur Group, has officially entered Switzerland’s regulated iGaming market through a significant partnership with the renowned operator Swiss Casinos.

The landmark launch sees a host of the supplier’s top performing games made available to a new wave of slot enthusiasts through Swiss Casino’s online offering, including its branded library which features the likes of Rick and Morty™: Strike BackThe Flintstones™ and ted™ Afterparty.

Swiss Casino is one of the largest land-based and online operator groups in Switzerland. Its online slot library is set to be elevated by the addition of Blueprint’s internationally recognised titles that are proven to attract a wide audience and deliver high quality entertainment.

Entering the Swiss iGaming market underlines Blueprint Gaming’s continuous ambition to expand its global footprint, offering its captivating portfolio to a growing number of partners and players in regulated markets worldwide.

Samuel Haggblom, Director of Key Accounts at Blueprint Gaming, said: “We are excited to partner with Swiss Casinos and mark our entry into Switzerland’s prosperous iGaming market, bringing our iconic and ever-expanding portfolio to a new pool of players. Launching with the country’s leading operator demonstrates our ambitious plans for 2025 as we seek to elevate Blueprint’s global footprint. We believe our diverse portfolio of games will resonate with a wide range of players, delivering increased engagement for Swiss Casino.”

Patrick Mastai, Director Online Casino at Swiss Casinos, added: “Integrating Blueprint’s content onto our online platform is extremely exciting as it sees us gain a host of the most beloved games collections from the industry. As an industry leader ourselves, it remains a priority to provide our players with engaging content that drives acquisition and retention rates, and we look forward to gauging the reaction from our player bases.”

European Cricket Network (ECN) announces 1xBet as official partner

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Established in 2018, the European Cricket Network (ECN), Europe’s digital hub for cricket, has revealed 1xBet as the exclusive Official Betting Partner for all its cricket properties, including the renowned European Cricket Series and European Cricket Championships.

The partnership includes significant branding across the international TV program graphics to a worldwide audience at more than one thousand matches over the initial term.

The European Cricket Network, with over thirty member cricket federations from around Europe, is delighted to collaborate with 1xBet.com to engage fans globally and bring the sport’s passion to millions of cricket enthusiasts, enabling them to be a part of the action on and off the field.

Roger Feiner, CEO of the European Cricket Network said: “‎European Cricket is excited to partner with 1xBet, one of the most innovative and engaging companies within this sector. With this partnership, European Cricket Network sits alongside other first-class sponsorships of 1xBet such as their partnerships with FC Barcelona, FIBA, Volleyball World and many other high-level rights holders.”

Mark Wilson, a representative of 1xBet added, “This agreement is important to our global strategy to support sports. We share the ECN’s desire to promote cricket around the world and are delighted about securing our partnership with the European Cricket Network to add to our portfolio of first-class rights holders. We are sure this partnership will be a resounding success for all involved.”

ESL FACEIT & Shikenso Analytics partner to unlock Brand Partnership insights

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ESL FACEIT Group (EFG), a leading esports and video game entertainment company, and Shikenso Analytics have announced their collaboration to evaluate brand partnership performances across the largest esports events worldwide.

With this agreement, Shikenso will provide EFG with advanced media valuation services on a holistic level.

As part of the multi-year agreement, Shikenso Analytics will deploy its brand partnership tracking solution at all major esports events organised and hosted by EFG, including Intel® Extreme Masters, ESL Pro League, ESL One, DreamLeague, Overwatch Champions Series, Call of Duty® League, and the Snapdragon Pro Series. By using a wide selection of tools as well as AI technology, Shikenso Analytics will provide detailed data insights and tracking viewership trends over time, accompanied with relevant metrics and reports. 

By integrating advanced technologies, EFG can set new benchmarks in brand partnership management and commercial operations, further elevating its role as a leader in the esports and video games industry. 

“Partnering with Shikenso Analytics marks an important step in optimizing the impact of our Brand Partnerships,” said Tobias Vogt, VP Commercial Planning & Operations, EFG. “Their cutting-edge technology and data-driven insights will help us better understand the value we create for our partners across our events, ensuring we continue to drive meaningful engagement and maximize media performance across the most-watched and most-celebrated esports events worldwide.” 

Arwin Fallah Shiraz, Co-CEO & Co-Founder at Shikenso Analytics: “The partnership with ESL FACEIT Group marks a new chapter for us at Shikenso. Providing our AI-technology to one of the leading forces in the esports entertainment industry solidifies our vision of establishing an industry-wide sponsorship analytics standard. We are excited to empower EFG with our data and support them for the years to come.”

Thai protesters demand complete withdrawal of casino bill

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Protesters continued to gather outside the Thai parliament on Wednesday, undeterred by the government’s decision to postpone the first reading of the Entertainment Complex Bill, originally scheduled for April 9th.

The proposed legislation, which would legalize casinos in Thailand, has sparked growing opposition. Demonstrators, many dressed in white and waving Thai flags, are demanding the bill be scrapped altogether rather than merely delayed, citing concerns about its potential social impact.

According to the Bangkok Post, Warong Dechgitvigrom, leader of the Thai Pakdee Party, warned of further action if the government does not fully abandon the proposal.

Chief government whip Wisut Chainarun confirmed that the bill had only been delayed, not withdrawn. He stressed the need to foster public understanding of the issue and noted that differing views are part of the democratic process.

Pichit Chaimongkol, leader of the Network of Students and People for Thailand’s Reform, expressed concern that the government’s push for the legislation might serve vested private interests. He argued that, despite the government’s focus on an integrated entertainment complex, the plan still fundamentally includes a casino that could harm people and the country.

Religious leaders have also joined the opposition, with the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Bangkok, Francis Xavier Vira Arpondratana, petitioning against the casino proposal due to concerns about potential social problems.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thailand

Another local media outlet, The Nation, reported that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra defended the bill during a meeting with senior officials, characterizing the opposition as political gamesmanship that distorts the legislation’s intent.

Paetongtarn insisted that the casino would occupy only 10 percent of the entertainment complex, dismissing claims that the country would be filled with casinos as untrue.

She emphasized the economic benefits, stating that the complexes would create jobs and boost local economies. Each complex, she explained, would include multiple hotels and restaurants, creating thousands of jobs, with casino profits helping to repay investment costs.

Fertitta expands Wynn Resorts holdings by $28M during stock price dip

Tilman Fertitta, Wynn Resorts’ largest single shareholder, has further increased his stake in the company by buying $27.87 million worth of shares.

According to documentation filed with the SEC, Fertitta purchased 400,000 additional shares of Wynn Resorts common stock across several trading sessions, strengthening his position in the Las Vegas-based gambling and hospitality corporation.

Wynn Resorts serves as the controlling entity of Wynn Macau, which manages the Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace establishments in Macau, China’s renowned gambling destination.

The acquisitions occurred at varying prices between $67.62 and $70.39 per share.

Following this investment, Fertitta’s aggregate holdings in the company have grown to 13 million shares. The purchase timing appears calculated, as the stock currently hovers near its 52-week bottom of $66.20 and exhibits oversold indicators according to market analysis.

These share purchases were executed through various Fertitta-controlled entities, including Fertitta Entertainment, Inc., Hospitality Headquarters, and Fertitta Entertainment, LLC. As the sole proprietor of these organizations, Fertitta maintains shared beneficial ownership of the acquired securities.

Poker machine venues warned ahead of Easter and ANZAC day trading hours

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The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has issued a stern warning to pubs and clubs regarding the use of poker machines during the upcoming Good Friday and ANZAC Day public holidays.

Venues found allowing customers to operate poker machines outside of permitted trading hours will face significant fines and penalties.

Suzy Neilan, the new CEO of the VGCCC, announced today that 14 venue operators have already been fined a total of $195,000 for violating trading hour regulations on these important days in 2024. Additionally, four operators received censure warnings.

“In Victoria, the availability of poker machines is restricted to a venue’s liquor licence hours, which may include further limitations on Good Friday, ANZAC Day, and Christmas Day,” Neilan stated.

“With Good Friday approaching, I strongly advise venues to understand and comply with their licence obligations and only operate their poker machines during permitted hours.”

Notably, the Melbourne Racing Club was fined AU$60,000 ($36,084) for three venues—Steeples, The Coach and Horses, and Peninsula Club—that allowed poker machine use before noon on Good Friday last year.

Similarly, Hoppers Crossing Club Limited faced an AU$30,000 ($18,030) fine for breaches on both Good Friday and ANZAC Day, resulting in a poker machine turnover of AU$22,234 ($13,357).

The Sale & District Greyhound Racing Club also received a censure for violating ANZAC Day trading hours.

When determining penalties, the VGCCC considered factors such as the duration of gambling outside permitted hours, the revenue generated by the venue, and the venue’s compliance history.

New regulations implemented in August 2024 mandate that venues must close their poker machine areas daily between 4 and 10 a.m., reinforcing the importance of compliance during these significant public holidays.