Quickcasino by Soft2Bet awarded at the EGR Europe Awards 2025

Europe

AGBrief Editorial

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March 10, 2025

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Quickcasino by Soft2Bet awarded at the EGR Europe Awards 2025

Soft2Bet’s Quickcasino secured the prestigious ‘Nordics and Baltics – Rising Star’ title at the EGR Europe Awards, cementing its reputation as one of the region’s most dynamic and innovative online gaming brands.

This recognition is a testament to Soft2Bet’s commitment to market-leading technology, data-driven gamification, and player-first experiences. By combining cutting-edge mechanics with a highly localised approach, Quickcasino has established itself as a force in Sweden’s competitive iGaming landscape.

A Market Leader in Innovation and Gamification

Quickcasino.se has redefined the Nordic and Baltic iGaming experience, blending seamless UX, high-speed transactions, and a unique gamification ecosystem to keep players engaged. Powered by Soft2Bet’s proprietary MEGA (Motivational Engineering Gamification Application) solution, the platform delivers dynamic challenges, real-time progression, and personalised incentives, creating an experience that is both immersive and rewarding.

Beyond gamification, Quickcasino’s commitment to top-tier security, lightning-fast payments, and market-driven customisation has resonated strongly with Swedish players. Its ability to merge high-performance technology with a player-centric approach, via MEGA, has driven remarkable growth, reinforcing its status as a market leader.

Uri Poliavich, Founder and CEO of Soft2Bet, commented: “Receiving European recognition from one of the leading industry awards is a proud moment for Quickcasino and Soft2Bet. This achievement not only recognises Quickcasino’s rapid success but also highlights how our B2C experience acts as a proof of concept for B2B partners.”

Soft2Bet Invest, Uri Poliavich — _{Uri Poliavich, Founder & CEO of Soft2Bet}

“As we investigate new ways to enhance our offerings, the results we achieve with our brands showcase the power of our technology and help operators elevate player engagement, retention, and performance in highly competitive markets. This award reinforces our ability to drive success for our brands and partners.”

A Future Focused on Growth and Innovation

Quickcasino’s latest accolade adds to Soft2Bet’s growing list of industry recognitions. Looking ahead to 2025, the company is preparing for major market expansions, new strategic partnerships, and continuous advancements in gamification technology. With innovation at its core, Soft2Bet remains committed to pushing boundaries and delivering industry-leading solutions that shape the future of iGaming.

Representatives of the Swedish gaming giants, including Chief Commercial Officer Magnus Olson, Head of Government Affairs Shawn Fluharty, Head of Brand & Communications Andrew Pink, and Regional Marketing Lead USA Anna Fältström, will speak on panels across the two days on the main stage as well as the new one-day responsible gaming summit.

The Manhattan-based summit takes place at a perfect time for Play’n GO as its USA-based business has thrived over the past 12 months.

Play’n GO saw US player numbers grow 48% in 2024, in addition to hitting all-time highs across key metrics for both January and February this year.

Andrew Pink, Head of Brand & Communications at Play’n GO, said “Play’n GO has been a proud supporter of the Next.io NYC event since its inception and it’s been extremely pleasing to see it grow in increasing importance year after year.”

“This event is one of the few in the industry where senior leaders from operators, regulators and suppliers come together to truly share knowledge and discuss vital issues that affect the entire global gaming industry, such as the expansion of iGaming in the US and how to create a sustainable industry in regulated markets.”

“Over the past 12 months we’ve seen further proof through record US-based revenue and player numbers that Play’n GO’s core proposition of keeping entertainment at the core of everything we do works. We’ll be taking that message to the main stage this time for a global audience to tune into.”

Good morning. A digital boom. Illegal online gambling has persisted in India despite regulatory efforts, a recent report by the Digital India Foundation (DIF) warns. To prevent it the report suggests stricter regulations on digital advertising, enhanced financial oversight, and the implementation of a government-backed whitelist/blocklist for gambling websites. Meanwhile, Star Entertainment i s selling its 50 percent stake in the Queen’s Wharf project in Brisbane to its Hong Kong partners, Far East Consortium International and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises. In Thailand, political tensions could hinder the proposed entertainment and casino complex bill, with a no-confidence debate expected against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in the final week of March.

What you need to know

The Digital India Foundation has exposed the alarming scale of illegal online gambling and betting in India, calling for tighter regulations on digital advertising.
Star Entertainment sells its 50% stake in the Queen’s Wharf project to Hong Kong partners, marking a key step in its financial restructuring.
Rising political tensions in Thailand are anticipated to hinder major government projects, particularly the proposed entertainment and casino complex.

On the radar

SEON showcases advanced digital fraud prevention solution at ASEAN 2025.
DigiPlus reports record-breaking 207% net income growth in 2024.
Kangwon Land board flags final dividend for 2024.
Sega Sammy revenue declines amid Pachislot and Pachinko challenges.

AGB Intelligence

INDIA

Digital India Foundation reveals alarming growth of illegal online gambling

A recent report by the Digital India Foundation (DIF) has warned about the levels of illegal online gambling registered in India, despite regulatory efforts. The report notes that these illegal sites garnered 1.6 billion visits within three months, particularly during the Indian Premier League season. It emphasizes the role of digital advertising in driving traffic to these platforms and the use of mule accounts to facilitate illicit transactions, amounting to approximately ₹2,500 crore ($300 million) monthly.

Industry Updates

BetConstruct shines at SBC Rio 2025 with game-changing innovations.
Pragmatic Play Sports expands its offering with greyhound racing launch.
Wazdan enriches Coins series with 25 Coins Grand Gold Edition release.

Corporate Spotlight

UU Wallet: Bridging traditional finance and Web3 flexibility

UU Wallet unveils comprehensive Digital Finance Solutions at ASEAN Gaming Summit 2025

With a strong focus on security and efficiency, UU Wallet stands out with its instant cryptocurrency exchange capabilities and globally accepted prepaid card, making it a preferred choice for those navigating the complexities of digital finance.

MEMBERSHIP | INTELLIGENCE | ASEAN | CAREERS

DigiPlus’ total revenues soared by 176 percent, reaching PHP75.2 billion ($1.31 billion) in 2024. Its EBITDA also experienced a substantial increase, climbing by 192 percent to PHP 13.9 billion ($243 million). These results underscore the company’s ability to efficiently scale its operations and optimize its growing user base.

By the end of 2024, DigiPlus had over 40 million registered users across its digital platforms, solidifying its leadership in the Philippine digital gaming space.

The company closed the year on a high note, with its fourth-quarter results reflecting continued momentum. DigiPlus posted a net income of PHP3.8 billion ($66 million) in 4Q24, up 93 percent from the same period the previous year. Revenues jumped by 110 percent to PHP23.7 billion ($414 million), while EBITDA expanded by 103 percent to PHP4.6 billion ($80 million).

A key driver of this success was the introduction of uniquely Filipino, culturally resonant games, such as Pinoy Drop Ball. Launched in September 2024, Pinoy Drop Ball became the first-ever livestreamed drop ball game in the Philippines, combining the excitement of traditional perya games with modern mobile gaming technology.

DigiPlus also launched other proprietary games like Pa Pula, Pa Puti, Color Game Plus, and Super Ace Jackpot, which contributed significantly to the company’s revenue growth and user engagement.

Reflecting its strong financial performance, DigiPlus has declared a cash dividend of PHP0.86 ($0.015) per outstanding common share. The dividend will be payable on April 4th, 2025, to stockholders of record as of March 24th, 2025.

$589M in taxes paid in 2024

DigiPlus paid PHP33.7 billion ($589 million) in taxes and regulatory fees in 2024 alone. These payments contribute directly to public services and national development initiatives, including critical infrastructure and social programs. The company also demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility by investing PHP100 million ($1.75 million) through the BingoPlus Foundation, which has supported nearly 120,000 individuals across healthcare, education, disaster resilience, and digital responsibility.

DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco highlighted the company’s role as a responsible corporate citizen: “Beyond our business, we take our role in nation-building seriously. Our success directly translates into meaningful contributions to national development – funding essential public services and infrastructure that benefit millions of Filipinos,” he said.

Political tensions impact Thai stocks and casino plans

Thailand

Nelson Moura

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March 10, 2025

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Political tensions impact Thai stocks and casino plans

Rising political tensions in Thailand are anticipated to hinder major government projects, particularly the proposed entertainment and casino complex.

This situation has led China Galaxy Securities (CGS) to lower its Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) index target for 2025 from 1,530 to 1,380 points, The Bangkok Post reported.

According to Kasem Prunratanamala, head of research at CGS International Securities, a no-confidence debate is expected against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in the final week of March, following opposition parties filing a motion against her.

While CGS believes the prime minister is likely to survive this political challenge, uncertainties stemming from tensions between the ruling Pheu Thai Party and the Bhumjaithai Party—Thailand’s second-largest coalition partner—could weigh heavily on market sentiment.

Kasem highlighted that ongoing conflicts might impede significant government initiatives, including plans for the entertainment complex, which is seen as a key project for economic growth.

On top of domestic political uncertainties, Thailand is also facing potential economic challenges from abroad. Concerns over reciprocal tariffs imposed by the U.S. government could further affect Thai exports, which comprised 18% of the country’s total exports last year, an increase from 13% in 2019.

The trade surplus with the U.S. surged from 2.5% of GDP in 2019 to a record high of 6.6% in 2024, highlighting Thailand’s growing economic ties with the U.S.

According to the report, four major illegal platforms—Parimatch, Stake, 1xBet, and Batery Bet—recorded 1.6 billion visits in just three months. The Indian Premier League (IPL) season, which occurs between March and April, has been a catalyst for spikes in search activity related to online gambling, indicating the seasonal growth of the sector.

The study highlights that mirror websites—alternative domains that replicate original gambling platforms—allow these operators to evade website blocks. In one instance, just three mirrors of Parimatch generated an additional 266 million visits, further proving the resilience of these illegal platforms.

The Role of Digital Advertising

One of the primary enablers of illegal gambling in India is digital marketing. Over a span of three months, social media platforms were responsible for driving approximately 42.8 million visits to illegal gambling websites. Organic search traffic played a significant role as well, generating around 184 million visits, largely due to the high-ranking visibility of gambling sites in search engine results.

Referral traffic also contributed significantly, accounting for 247.5 million visits, with many of these referrals originating from adult websites, sports-related platforms, and video streaming services. Furthermore, direct website visits, where users either bookmarked links or entered URLs manually, accounted for 1.1 billion visits to these illegal platforms.

Despite existing policies that prohibit the promotion of gambling, major digital platforms like Facebook and Google continue to display advertisements for offshore gambling operators. This loophole enables these companies to expand their reach while evading strict enforcement.

The Financial Networks Behind Illegal Gambling

Illegal gambling platforms sustain themselves through a sophisticated payment network that facilitates seamless financial transactions. These platforms accept a variety of payment methods, including UPI transactions, cryptocurrency payments, and international wallets such as AstroPay, making it easier for users to place bets anonymously.

The report also highlights the growing use of mule accounts—bank accounts that are used to funnel illicit transactions on behalf of gambling operators. According to RBI data, an estimated ₹2,500 crore ($300 million) in illicit funds flows through these networks every month.

A 2024 investigation by The Ken uncovered an emerging trend of “mule-as-a-service” networks, which further complicates enforcement efforts by authorities.

Despite repeated enforcement measures, such as website blocking and financial restrictions, the report argues that India’s enforcement remains fragmented. A comparative analysis of international best practices from Norway, the UK, Denmark, Belgium, and the US reveals that a multi-layered approach—which combines website blocking with restrictions on marketing, payment bans, and regulatory whitelisting—has proven more effective in tackling illegal gambling markets.

Recommendations for India

The Digital India Foundation urges India to adopt a comprehensive enforcement strategy that disrupts the operational pillars of illegal gambling. The first step involves enforcing stricter regulations on digital advertising platforms, ensuring that social media and search engines do not promote illegal gambling sites.

Additionally, the report calls for tightening financial regulations to block illicit transactions and dismantle networks of mule accounts used to launder gambling proceeds.

Furthermore, the authors suggest implementing a government-backed whitelist/blocklist system that would regulate online access to gambling platforms, ensuring that only licensed and legally operating websites are accessible to Indian users.

The report concludes that unless India strengthens its regulatory framework with proactive policy enforcement, the illegal gambling market will continue to flourish, posing serious threats to financial integrity and consumer protection.

The company posted net sales of JPY322.3 billion ($2.3 billion) for the period, an 8.1 percent decrease compared to JPY350.6 billion ($2.5 billion) in the same period last year. Operating income fell by 20.8 percent to JPY43.7 billion ($314 million), while ordinary income declined 13.9 percent to JPY49.4 billion ($354 million).

Despite these declines, profit attributable to owners of the parent rose by 17.3 percent year-on-year to JPY41.8 billion ($300 million), up from JPY35.6 billion ($258 million) in 2023.

The decline in overall revenue was largely attributed to a steep drop in the Pachislot and Pachinko Machines segment. Sales plummeted 35.6 percent to JPY76.5 billion ($550 million), and ordinary income fell 57.2 percent to JPY19.8 billion ($142 million).

The drop was primarily due to an exceptionally strong prior-year performance driven by Smart Pachislot Hokuto No Ken. However, the latest release, e Hokuto No Ken 10, performed steadily, and new titles such as Pachislot Kaidoumokushiroku Kaiji Kyouen are expected to support future growth.

Gaming Business Expands Rapidly

The newly established Gaming Business segment recorded a 208.1 percent increase in sales to JPY3.1 billion ($22 million). Ordinary income turned positive at JPY954 million ($7 million), reflecting strong sales of new gaming equipment, particularly Railroad Riches™ on the Genesis Atmos® platform.

The Paradise City integrated resort in South Korea also contributed to profits, with record-high casino revenue from Japanese VIP customers.

Looking ahead, Sega Sammy revised its full-year forecast, now expecting net sales of JPY425 billion ($3.1 billion), down 9.4 percent from the previous year. Operating income is projected to drop 20.5 percent to JPY46 billion ($330 million), while ordinary income is set to decline 13.8 percent to JPY51.5 billion ($370 million). Profit attributable to owners of the parent is anticipated to rise 13.4 percent to JPY37.5 billion ($270 million).

The company is also focusing on expanding its Gaming Business through acquisitions. The planned purchases of GAN Limited and Stakelogic B.V. are expected to establish a stronger foothold in the iGaming market, particularly in the United States.

Despite challenges in its Pachislot and Pachinko Machines business, Sega Sammy stated it remains optimistic, citing its robust Entertainment Contents division and strategic investments in gaming as key drivers for future growth.

Entertainment Contents Soars

The Entertainment Contents segment saw net sales climb 8.2 percent to JPY239.1 billion ($1.7 billion), with ordinary income surging 88.7 percent to JPY37.6 billion ($270 million).

The growth was fueled by the success of major game releases such as Metaphor: ReFantazio, which won multiple awards at The Game Awards 2024, and Sonic X Shadow Generations, which surpassed two million units in global sales by January 2025. The company also highlighted strong contributions from Persona 5 Royal (Remaster) and Unicorn Overlord.

SEGA’s animation division also thrived, with Sonic the Hedgehog 3 grossing $460 million globally, prompting plans for a fourth installment in 2027. The company’s transmedia strategy—integrating video games, films, and merchandise—is expected to drive further growth in this segment.

Star Entertainment sells Queen’s Wharf stake in last-minute lifeline

Australia

Viviana Chan

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March 10, 2025

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Star Entertainment sells Queen’s Wharf stake in last-minute lifeline

Embattled Star Entertainment has announced that it is selling its 50 percent stake in the Queen’s Wharf project in Brisbane to its Hong Kong partners, Far East Consortium International and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises.

This move, combined with a significant consolidation of its Gold Coast assets, signals a period of restructuring for the company as it navigates financial and regulatory challenges.

The terms of the Queen’s Wharf exit agreement include the termination of Star’s casino management agreement for the property. To bolster immediate liquidity, Star will receive an upfront cash payment of AU$53 million ($33.4 million).

Additionally, a fixed monthly fee of AU$5 million ($3.2 million) will be paid during a transitional period, during which Star will continue providing casino management services until March 2026. A potential earn-out mechanism could generate up to AU$225 million ($142 million) in future consideration from The Star Brisbane, contingent on performance.

The most significant outcome of this deal is the substantial financial relief it provides Star. By shedding its commitment to further equity injections into the Destination Brisbane Consortium (DBC) joint venture after March 2025, the company avoids an anticipated AU$212 million ($133.6 million) outlay, as well as potential additional costs linked to the DBC’s debt refinancing. This effectively removes a major financial burden.

While exiting the Brisbane development, Star is strategically enhancing its presence on the Gold Coast. By acquiring its joint venture partners’ interests in the Dorsett and soon-to-open Andaz hotel and residential towers, Star will achieve full ownership, increasing its stake from 33.3 percent.

This consolidation provides complete control over all gaming and non-gaming assets at The Star Gold Coast. Star also retains full development rights for the site, allowing for the potential addition of up to three more towers under its Gold Coast Masterplan.

Furthermore, Star has already received AU$35 million ($22 million) in cash from its joint venture partners, earmarked for short-term liquidity, as the company explores broader liquidity initiatives. This immediate cash infusion, combined with the restructured financial obligations, provides crucial support during this transitional phase.

Queen’s Wharf Brisbane expects an additional 1.4 million visitors

In a separate filing, Star Entertainment stated that it has entered into documentation for a senior secured AU$250 million ($158 million) bridge facility.

The bridge facility involves funds managed by King Street Capital Management.

This move is accompanied by an exclusivity and process deed concerning a comprehensive refinancing proposal. The potential outcome of this strategic restructuring is a total debt capacity for the group reaching up to AU$940 million ($593 million).

According to the company’s official announcement, these actions are designed to bolster Star’s financial stability and provide essential liquidity. The bridge facility is intended to serve as an interim measure, while the broader refinancing proposal aims to establish a more sustainable long-term capital structure.

Steve McCann, Crown resorts — The Star Entertainment CEO and Managing Director, Steve McCann

Regarding the sale of the Queen’s Wharf stake, Group CEO and Managing Director, Steve McCann, said: “This transaction is an important milestone for the company and contributes to providing a potential pathway towards financial viability. Our team has worked hard to deliver The Star Brisbane and establish a new precinct for Brisbane. We are grateful for the efforts of all of our employees, and we will work with our joint venture partners and the regulator to transition to a new casino operator in due course.”

“This transaction is a step in the right direction for The Star. There are still a number of challenges that we need to address, including progressing short- and long-term liquidity for the company. We remain focused on remediating the business and restoring our reputation as a suitable licensee at both The Star Gold Coast and The Star Sydney.”

Soft2Bet’s Quickcasino secured the prestigious ‘Nordics and Baltics – Rising Star’ title at the EGR Europe Awards, cementing its reputation as one of the region’s most dynamic and innovative online gaming brands.

A Market Leader in Innovation and Gamification

A Future Focused on Growth and Innovation

Table of Contents

Play’n GO, the world’s leading casino entertainment provider celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025, is to set the stage at the latest edition of Next.io’s New York Summit next week in Manhattan by enabling globally available live streaming of the prestigious event for the first time.

Table of Contents

What you need to know

On the radar

INDIA

Industry Updates

Corporate Spotlight

Table of Contents

The Philippines’ DigiPlus Interactive Corp has posted a net income of PHP12.6 billion ($220 million) in 2024, marking a 207 percent year-over-year growth.

$589M in taxes paid in 2024

Rising political tensions in Thailand are anticipated to hinder major government projects, particularly the proposed entertainment and casino complex.

Table of Contents

A recent report by the Digital India Foundation (DIF) has exposed the alarming scale of illegal online gambling and betting in India, revealing that the industry continues to thrive despite regulatory crackdowns.

The Role of Digital Advertising

The Financial Networks Behind Illegal Gambling

Recommendations for India

Table of Contents

Kangwon Land, the operator of South Korea’s Kangwon Land casino resort, has recommended a final dividend of KRW1,170 ($0.81) per share for the year ending December 31st, 2024, the company announced on Friday.

Implemented responsible gaming program

Sega Sammy Holdings has reported a decline in revenue for the nine months ended December 31, 2024, citing a downturn in its Pachislot and Pachinko Machines segment.

Gaming Business Expands Rapidly

Entertainment Contents Soars

Embattled Star Entertainment has announced that it is selling its 50 percent stake in the Queen’s Wharf project in Brisbane to its Hong Kong partners, Far East Consortium International and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises.

Table of Contents

With SEON, iGaming operators keep bad players out of their ecosystem by combating bonus abuse and multi-accounting while decreasing time spent on manual reviews.

Table of Contents

ENQUIRIES & SUBSCRIPTIONS

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