The esports betting solution provider DATA.BET has announced an expansion into the thriving Latin American market by showcasing its innovative esports betting and virtual content solutions at BiS SiGMA Americas 2025.
Marking its inaugural appearance with a dedicated booth at Brazil’s prominent expo, DATA.BET emphasizes its commitment to growth and premium offerings in the region.
At the stand E140, DATA.BET’s team will connect with current and potential clients and partners to introduce esports betting and data products enhancements. Visitors can explore technically upgraded Single Page Application (SPA) and interactive widgets designed to optimize the betting experience, especially for mobile devices, and operational efficiency.
In addition, the company offers extensive esports coverage with 35+ disciplines and over 12,500 live events monthly. Together with its virtual sports lineup that features 600,000 events yearly, DATA.BET provides a broad spectrum of betting content.
“As the industry evolves, we remain focused on equipping operators with comprehensive solutions needed to succeed,” said Otto Bonning, Head of Sales at DATA.BET. “LatAm represents a key market for many betting companies. Our presence at BiS SiGMA Americas 2025 underscores the dedication to this region and businesses that aim to develop it, and we can’t wait to connect with leading professionals and partners.”
Good morning. The altcoin revolution is here. Well, almost. A new study has found that altcoins now account for nearly half of all crypto wagers, becoming crucial for the iGaming space. Looking to land-based operations, Bloomberry saw a significant drop in earnings last year, with slow performance in Entertainment City and hefty costs from Solaire North. Looking to Macau, foreign gaming tax rebates appear to not be working, even though international visitation is up, notes an expert. In other news, Las Vegas Sands Chairman Rob Goldstein is going to be stepping down and Thailand maintains its $1.5 million bank deposit for locals requirement in its casino bill.
Bitcoin may top the headlines, but within the online gaming space, altcoins are giving it and other top cryptos a run for their money. According to a new report by SOFTSWISS, altcoins now make up nearly half of all crypto wagers. While Bitcoin itself accounts for over half of the total crypto market value, its share in gaming transactions has seen a notable decline.
Thailand is going to maintain a requirement that locals must prove they have at least THB50 million ($1.5 million) in the bank in order to enter possible future casinos in the country.
According to the Bangkok Post, the Ministry of Finance confirmed that it will propose a draft amendment to the entertainment complex bill based upon a recommendation by the nation’s Council of State.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat stated that, while the government’s viewpoint on the inclusion may be different than the council’s, it will still send its desired version to parliament – where it could be adjusted.
The official himself said he disagreed with the bank balance requirement, stating that only 10,000 people in Thailand meet the requirement. He proposes instead the proof of paid income tax for three consecutive years and an entry levy of THB5,000 ($150) per person.
The bank balance proof has been a huge point of contention, as foreign investors were hoping to tap the local market. If passed by parliament as is, it could severely restrict interest in setting up shop in the nation, given the THB100 billion ($2.97 billion) investment required.
Las Vegas Sands Chairman and CEO Robert Goldstein is going to be stepping down from his role, as of March 1st, 2026.
According to a company release on Thursday, Goldstein ‘will transition to the role of senior advisor’, remaining with the company ‘through March 2028’.
LVS indicated that Goldstein ‘will assist management with its government relations activities, efforts to pursue new physical development opportunities and the company’s gaming strategies’.
Goldstein joined LVS in 1995, prior to the opening of The Venetian Las Vegas – becoming the property’s president in 1999.
Goldstein was named LVS president and COO in 2014 and, upon the passing of Sheldon Adelson, the company’s founder, stepped into the role of Chairman and CEO.
“This company transformed the industry from a gaming-centric model to the integrated resort model and, through a different strategic approach in each market, meaningfully changed the tourism landscape in Las Vegas, Macau and Singapore. I’ve been fortunate to work with a great team of people over the years, and I specifically want to express my gratitude to Sheldon for his support and friendship,” noted Goldstein.
According to the company release, ‘Both the company and Mr. Goldstein intend for his senior advisor role to be his sole position with the company and its subsidiaries as of March 1st, 2026’.
LVS says that current President and COO Patrick Dumont will replace Goldstein as Chairman and CEO in March of 2026.
Slotegrator engaged in a thoughtful discussion on the future of online poker with EvenBet Gaming CEO Dmitry Starostenkov, delving into its regional nuances and integration with other gambling games.
Poker is still a popular game, particularly in Europe, the United States, Latin America, and Asia, Dmitry Starostenkov noted. However, regional preferences vary, ranging from traditional Texas Hold’em to local card games. The poker industry is expanding, integrating the game with other sectors, such as sports betting and casinos.
The poker segment is experiencing significant growth, driven by the implementation of gamification, innovative bonus mechanics, and cross-marketing tools. Operators who effectively utilize these strategies are achieving additional revenue and attracting new audiences.
Another key element of poker development is the implementation of marketing tools, such as bonuses, rakeback, referral programs, and private clubs. These tools enable operators to maintain player engagement and enhance the overall gaming experience.
“Effective marketing tools must be tailored to the specific audience. For instance, in Europe, complex bonus systems with deeply integrated gamification are highly effective, as players often respond well to engaging and strategic promotions,” shared DmitryStarostenkov.
“In Africa, where poker audiences are still emerging, simplicity is key. Basic and easy-to-understand bonus systems resonate better with players who are new to poker.“
Games Global’s exclusive studio partner, OnAir Entertainment, has boosted its Live Casino content, launching exclusive Blackjack and Roulette tables with LeoVegas Group.
The developer’s dedicated LeoVegas Exclusive Roulette and BetMGM Exclusive Roulette titles debuted on 23rd December, with three new Live Blackjack tables unveiled on 25th February 2025.
The content will be available to players across European markets including the UK, Sweden, Denmark, Malta, and the Netherlands, as well as in Canada’s only regulated iGaming province, Ontario.
The three Blackjack tables created for BetMGM – Bellagio Blackjack, MGM Grand Blackjack, and New York-New York Blackjack – feature bespoke branding centred around the operator’s most iconic land-based casinos in Las Vegas, bringing the grandeur of the entertainment capital of the world to players worldwide.
OnAir’s diverse portfolio of Blackjack and Roulette products, crafted exclusively on behalf of LeoVegas and BetMGM, harnesses the game studio’s extensive Live Casino expertise and has been curated to deliver players a premium gaming experience unavailable elsewhere.
The partnership between Games Global and two of the industry’s most prominent names not only reinforces the supplier’s commercial presence in key jurisdictions but also enhances the global market visibility of both LeoVegas and BetMGM with dedicated branding.
Andy Booth, Chief Product Officer at Games Global, said: “LeoVegas and BetMGM are renowned brands in the betting and gaming industry, so we are incredibly proud to have partnered with LeoVegas Group to create dedicated tables that honour their brand heritage. OnAir is a pioneer in the Live Casino space, and we have no doubt that its collection of Blackjack and Roulette tables will continue to appeal to players, amplifying Games Global’s footprint across key markets.”
After the success of two photo exhibits last year, PAGCOR launched the third installment of its Photography Contest Exhibit on Wednesday, March 5, at Okada Manila.
The exhibit, which will run until April 3 at Okada’s Fountain Foyer, offers a unique glimpse into the country’s abundant harvest season and the lesser-known yet equally stunning tourist destinations in the Philippines.
PAGCOR’s Photography Contest Exhibit at Okada Manila Fountain Foyer
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco, who graced the event’s formal opening, said the exhibit at Okada Manila showcases the winning entries both from the 2023 and 2024 PAGCOR photo competitions.
Alejandro H. Tengco, Chairman of PAGCOR
“This third leg is special because unlike the first two exhibits, we brought to Okada Manila all the 48 winners of our 2023 and 2024 PAGCOR Photography Competitions,” he said.
The 2023 competition with the theme “Sa’n Tayo Next?” featured the country’s relatively unknown tourist destinations with huge potentials, while the 2024 contest “Harvest Time,” paid tribute to Filipino farmers, growers and fishers.
“These 48 masterpieces, carefully chosen by a panel of seasoned photographers and visual artists, are a testament to the incredible talent and creativity of Filipino photographers,” Mr. Tengco said.
During the launch, the PAGCOR chief also invited amateur and seasoned lensmen to join the PAGCOR Photo Contest 2025 with the theme, “Infrastructure for Economic Development.”
“This year’s contest will highlight infrastructure projects that serve as the backbone of our economic progress by enhancing mobility, trade and a better quality of life for Filipinos,” the PAGCOR chief said. “We thus encourage all photography enthusiasts to join us again this year.”
Apart from the photo exhibit at Okada Manila, an “Expert Photographers Speak” will be held on March 21 with Jay Jallorina – a commercial photographer specializing in high-rise exteriors and other infrastructure projects – as the featured speaker.
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco exchanges insights with Okada Manila officials at the inauguration of the third edition of PAGCOR’s photo exhibit.
Mr. Tengco was joined in the Okada event by PAGCOR President and COO Wilma T. Eisma and Directors Francis Democrito C. Concodia and Gilbert Cesar C. Remulla, as well as key officials from Okada Manila including Co-Vice Chairpersons Takako Okada, Atty. Michelle Lazaro and President and COO Byron Yip.
Okada Manila President and COO Byron Yip
Mr. Yip said Okada Manila was proud to support PAGCOR’s effort in promoting Philippine tourism. “As a world-class destination, Okada Manila is committed to providing exceptional experiences for our guests, and this exhibit allows us to showcase the country’s rich heritage and vibrant destinations,” he added.
Hub88, an integration platform offering a single API for online gaming operations, has announced a global distribution agreement with the games provider SpinLogic, further boosting its market-leading aggregation platform with new content.
The provider’s entire portfolio has been made available to Hub88’s partners, including slots, table and card games, and video poker.
Player-favourites include Sweet16 Blast!, Mighty Drums and Cash Bandits 3, which can now be enjoyed by even more players globally.
In partnership with RealTime Gaming, the provider has developed a suite of over 300 games since its launch in 1998 with new titles released monthly.
This partnership with Hub88 will see SpinLogic benefit from a wide array of innovative gaming solutions and technologies to ensure it stays at the forefront of innovation.
Ollie Castleman, Managing Director of Hub88, said: “We are thrilled to partner with SpinLogic as they pursue ambitious growth plans and seek to broaden their global influence. The addition of their content will add significant value for our operator network and resonate with players globally.”
Remy Hamaoui, consulting CMO at SpinLogic, added: “This partnership opens up new avenues for innovation and enhances our ability to deliver top gaming experiences. We believe that working with Hub88 will elevate our offering and strengthen our position in the industry. Together, we are committed to understanding and meeting the needs of our players.”
Renowned bookmaker 1xBet has announced its participation in SiGMA Africa 2025, the continent’s premier industry forum.
At booth 09P, the brand’s team will hold meetups with colleagues, share valuable insights on market trends, and tell you how to open up new opportunities for developing your business with one of the best affiliate programs in the iGaming industry.
1xBet guests can enter the draw for an iPhone 16 Pro and AirPods Max, as well as get stylish merch by playing a popular game at the booth. And that’s not all: productive networking with affiliate marketing gurus will run in a relaxed atmosphere with signature cocktails and other delicious drinks.
The forum will be held at the Sun Exhibits at GrandWest in Cape Town, South Africa, attracting 2,500 participants, 150+ speakers, and around 350 affiliates. The African betting and gambling sector is growing rapidly, and the event will be a key platform for sharing experiences and establishing new partnerships.
1xBet highly values the African market and considers SiGMA Africa 2025 an important step to strengthen its position in the region. The company actively supports sports on the continent and invests in developing young talents.
1xBet collaborates with the Confederation of African Football, as well as with leading clubs and federations, while the partnership with many famous performers, including iconic musician Davido, confirms the brand’s strong connection with the entertainment sphere.
1xAffiliates, the 1xBet affiliate program, unites over 100,000 partners worldwide who receive lifetime commission for each attracted player. They can also expect high conversion rates, prompt support from a personal manager, and automatic weekly payments. Contact your manager and arrange a meeting at the exhibition!
The iGaming landscape is undergoing a transformation as altcoins claim nearly half of all cryptocurrency wagers, according to SOFTSWISS’ latest industry report.
The surge in Bitcoin’s value throughout 2024 has significantly influenced betting patterns, prompting a more cautious approach to crypto gambling while accelerating the rise of alternative digital assets.
SOFTSWISS, an iGaming technology provider, unveiled its 2024 ‘State of Crypto’ report, highlighting key trends shaping the industry.
According to the report, with Bitcoin’s market capitalization reaching approximately €1.8 trillion ($1.9 trillion), the cryptocurrency continues to dominate the financial ecosystem. However, while Bitcoin still accounted for more than half of the total crypto market value, its share in gaming transactions saw a notable decline.
Industry data from SOFTSWISS, gathered from over 500 brands, reveals that the Total Bet Sum, including both fiat and cryptocurrency, increased by 35.9 percent in 2024 compared to the previous year.
However, a more conservative stance on crypto betting led to a 2.5 percentage-point decrease in its share, signaling an increasing preference for fiat transactions.
Bitcoin’s influence on betting behavior
Despite the cautious approach, SOFTSWISS data confirm that cryptocurrency remains integral to iGaming payments. The Crypto Bet Sum grew by 18.7 percent in 2024, but the Crypto Bet Count dropped by 12.8 percent, reflecting shifting player behavior in response to Bitcoin’s price volatility.
As Bitcoin’s value surged in late 2024, the average crypto bet increased by 1.4 times compared to the previous year, while fiat betting amounts remained steady. This trend underscores the correlation between cryptocurrency exchange rates and betting activity.
“The sharp appreciation of Bitcoin in the final quarter of 2024 led to a more conservative approach among players toward crypto betting,” said Vitali Matsukevich, Chief Operating Officer at SOFTSWISS. “However, higher Bitcoin values resulted in larger average bet sizes, positively impacting overall crypto wagering volumes. We anticipate players will continue to adopt risk-conscious strategies in response to Bitcoin’s fluctuations.”
Altcoins gain traction in iGaming
A major takeaway from the report is the increasing dominance of altcoins in gaming transactions. The top five cryptocurrencies used in iGaming—Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Tether, and Dogecoin—continue to lead the market.
However, a shift in their distribution is evident. In 2023, altcoins represented just 26.8 percent of total crypto bets, but this figure nearly doubled in 2024, signaling a growing preference for alternative digital currencies.
Bitcoin’s share in iGaming transactions dropped by 17 percentage points, while Tether, Litecoin, and Ethereum saw notable increases of 7.3 p.p., 6.5 p.p., and 3.4 p.p., respectively. This diversification suggests players are actively exploring more stable and efficient digital assets beyond Bitcoin.
Another emerging trend is the adoption of proprietary gaming tokens by brands such as Rollbit and Shuffle.
These custom tokens provide seamless integration, reduced volatility, and exclusive rewards, creating tailored financial ecosystems that enhance player engagement. However, their success hinges on significant investments in marketing and infrastructure to establish trust and encourage widespread adoption.
“Bitcoin’s surge in 2024 has driven larger bet sizes, but the drop in overall crypto wagers highlights a shift in risk management strategies,” Matsukevich noted.
“With the growing adoption of altcoins and gaming-specific tokens, operators must balance fiat and crypto offerings while innovating their payment solutions to sustain long-term growth in the evolving iGaming sector.”
