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1xBet in the running for 3 categories at SiGMA Eurasia Awards 2025

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Global betting powerhouse 1xBet has maintained its leading role in the iGaming sector. The brand’s efforts were recently acknowledged by the professional community, as 1xBet was shortlisted for the prestigious SiGMA Eurasia Awards 2025 in the categories of Best Operator, Best Crypto Operator, and Best Sports Operator.

The winners will be decided by an authoritative jury of industry experts and via online voting on the Awards website. The results will be announced on February 23 at a gala ceremony, which will take place at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City Hotel in Dubai, UAE.

“We are glad that our company has reached the finals in three nominations at once. It confirms that 1xBet provides a versatile gaming experience of the highest level. For us, this is high praise and a great motivation to implement innovative technologies and set trends,” said a representative of 1xBet.

1xBet has taken several prestigious international awards over the last year. Previously, the brand received the Mobile Sports Product of the Year statuette in the International Gaming Awards 2025, won the title of the Best Sports Bookmaker of the Year in the SiGMA Africa Awards 2024, and was recognized as the Best Cybersports Operator 2024 in Latin America in the SiGMA Americas Awards 2024.

Slotegrator highlights the advantages of partnering with an iGaming solution aggregator

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In the dynamic iGaming industry, online casino operators must juggle business management, compliance, and delivering fresh gaming content simultaneously. How can they manage all these tasks while staying competitive?

This is where iGaming aggregators step in. The B2B solution provider and aggregator Slotegrator explains who aggregators are, what role they play in the gambling industry, and how operators can benefit from such a partnership.

An iGaming aggregator serves as the bridge between online casino operators and gaming content providers. 

Aggregation comes in different forms: turnkey solutions, game integration, and payment systems. Instead of operators putting everything together on their own, an aggregator streamlines the process. They make sure operators have access to an extensive library of games, secure payment solutions, or even the framework to build an online casino from scratch.

Essentially, the role of an aggregator in the iGaming industry is to allow an operator to focus on business development.

1. Simplified content acquisition

There are thousands of talented game developers in the iGaming industry, and each of them brings something different to the table. However, for operators, evaluating their credibility and quality can be a time-consuming and resource-intensive task.

Aggregators check providers and evaluate their games, freeing operators from the need to carry out this painstaking task themselves. Partnering with an aggregator can unlock access to a diverse selection of high-quality games, including slots, live dealer games, poker, and more. 

With Slotegrator’s APIgrator solution, operators can integrate over 30,000 certified games from more than 180 licensed providers with just one API integration session.

2. Hassle-free contract management

Normally, working with multiple game developers means signing separate agreements with each one. It’s inconvenient and involves large amounts of tedious paperwork—but with an aggregator, it’s different. 

A single contract covers everything, leaving operators free to focus on their players and revenue.

3. Seamless technical integration

Aggregators simplify the integration of new content into existing platforms. Through API technology, an aggregator ensures that operators can integrate games, payment solutions, and other services without hitting technical roadblocks.

Slotegrator’s support team guides operators through every step, making sure implementation is smooth and downtime is minimal.

4. Continuous support and updates

In the iGaming industry, technical issues are inevitable. When they happen, quick solutions matter. Aggregators offer round-the-clock support, helping operators resolve problems before they affect players. 

The Slotegrator team provides 24/7 assistance and regular content updates, keeping platforms fresh, functional, and engaging.

Working with an aggregator isn’t just about operational efficiency—it’s also about strategy. By offering a wide variety of games and seamless payment options, operators can attract a broader audience and enhance player retention.

As a leading iGaming aggregator, Slotegrator empowers operators with a complete suite of solutions designed to drive success. With cutting-edge technology, a vast network of providers, and hands-on support, Slotegrator remains a trusted partner for online casino businesses worldwide.

For operators looking to streamline operations, maximize player engagement, and scale efficiently, working with an iGaming aggregator is the ideal choice.

Vincitu enhances player engagement with Fast Track CRM

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The renowned Italian gaming brand Vincitu, a historic holding company in the remote sports betting industry, has gone live on Fast Track’s CRM platform, marking the next phase of their 2024 partnership with successful integration into their player account management system.

Through the new integration, Vincitu will offer personalised player experiences and gain deeper insights into player behavior, helping the company grow in a competitive market.

The collaboration between Fast Track and Vincitu comes at an important time, as the demand for CRM solutions tailored to the Italian market continues to grow. By combining Vincitu’s experience in the Italian gaming sector with Fast Track’s CRM platform, the collaboration aims to bring real value to players.

Simon Lidzén, CEO, Fast Track
Simon Lidzén, CEO, Fast Track

“We’re excited to support Vincitu Group with our powerful CRM and player engagement platform in the Italian gaming market. We’re keen to help them deliver personalised 1:1 experiences to players and truly connect with their audiences, building long-term brand loyalty,“ says Simon Lidzén, Co-Founder & CEO at Fast Track.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Fast Track and integrate their advanced platform into our operations. Their solution empowers us to create highly personalised, real-time player experiences while gaining valuable insights into player behaviour. This level of efficiency allows us to focus on building stronger connections, delivering exceptional value at every touchpoint,” comments Christian Saviano, CEO at Vincitu Group.

Fast Track’s partnership with Vincitu further solidifies its role as a trusted provider for operators looking to improve their CRM strategies and drive growth. With a unique focus on delivering real-time, personalised player engagement, Fast Track’s technology helps operators unlock the full potential of their relationships with players, supporting growth and lasting success.

Altenar partners with The Watchers to introduce social betting

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Altenar, a leading sports betting and iGaming software provider, has partnered with community chat provider The Watchers to offer social betting.

Through the partnership, Altenar will open the doors to a betting community for players. Whether it is sharing tips, comparing strategies or celebrating wins, social betting adds an extra element of interest to the gambling experience and presents a modern way to boost retention.

Altenar’s external integration with The Watchers allows a separate channel to be created for every event within the sportsbook and authenticated users can chat with each other within the event page. This function allows operators to use influencers to boost site traffic by sharing bets and insights in real time, with users able to copy their bets with one click.

Users can be given the option to create avatars and share bets within the channel, while other players can click on the bet and have their betslips populated. An external back-office tool can be used to handle moderation and natural language recognition to ban words and expressions.

Operators can expect increased turnover due to bet prompts generated by other users while the biggest benefit is building a community of players which promotes brand loyalty.

This latest enhancement to Altenar’s best-in-class solutions demonstrates its ability to keep its partners at the forefront of the industry.

Forbes Travel Guide awards NÜWA Manila and NÜWA Spa at City of Dreams Manila

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Nüwa Manila and Nüwa Spa at City of Dreams Manila achieved the Eighth and Sixth Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards in 2025. The world-renowned authority on excellence in luxury hospitality announced the much-awaited global awardees list on February 12. 

These accolades account for the collective 18 FTG Star awards of City of Dreams Manila, along with its two other hotel brands – Nobu Hotel Manila and Hyatt Regency Manila — receiving Four Stars. The hotels have also maintained their respective ratings since 2018, and Nuwa Spa since 2020.

City of Dreams Manila’s awards contribute to the total of 107 stars achieved by the integrated resort’s parent company, Melco Resorts & Entertainment Limited’s (Melco) portfolio of hotel, dining, and spa facilities across its integrated resort properties in Asia and Europe. Melco, which gained three new FTG Five Star awards for 2025, secures its position as the leading integrated resort in Asia, topping the competition across all of Macau.

Lawrence Ho, Chairman and CEO at Melco Resorts said: “We are excited to welcome new and returning guests at our properties in Asia and Europe in the year ahead, as we continue to and enhance our luxury hospitality and entertainment offerings across Melco’s portfolio.”

City of Dreams Manila Property President Geoff Andres also remarked: “We are deeply honored by these recognitions from the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide, marking another milestone in our journey as we celebrate our 10th year of delivering exemplary service. These awards, made possible by our hardworking and passionate team, inspire us further to set the bar high for hospitality and meaningful and sustainable luxury.”.

“Forbes Travel Guide’s Star Award winners exemplify excellence in hospitality,” said Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings for Forbes Travel Guide. “This year’s list continues to reflect the changing landscape of luxury with properties setting the standard for authentic experiences while offering unparalleled amenities, enhanced well-being and delivering unforgettable moments. We are thrilled to recognize their dedication to creating truly world-class travel options for today’s discerning guest.”

FTG is the only independent, global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and ocean cruises. Its annual and much anticipated list helps discerning travelers select the “world’s best experiences.” This year’s winners can be viewed on ForbesTravelGuide.com

FTG compiles its ratings using an objective, independent and data-driven process. Incognito inspectors pose as everyday guests and stay at hotels, board cruises, receive spa services and dine at fine restaurants around the world. They test some 900 exacting standards, emphasizing exceptional service, which accounts for 70 percent of a property’s rating.

Newer standards focus on the guest experience. The remaining 30 percent comes from the quality and condition of the facilities, as inspectors are now required to reflect on whether there was great value in the experience. To learn more about how FTG compiles its Star Ratings, check the link.

Benedikt Becker promoted to VP of Marketing at Shikenso Analytics

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Shikenso Analytics, a leading provider of AI-powered sponsorship analytics, has promoted Benedikt Becker to Vice President of Marketing. Since he joined Shikenso, Benedikt has played a crucial role in scaling Shikenso’s brand, redefining industry standards for sponsorship measurement, and driving substantial business growth. 

As Marketing Director, Benedikt’s leadership transformed Shikenso’s go-to-market strategy, delivering tangible, data-backed success: 

12x lead generation, fueling Shikenso’s growth trajectory;

Drove record revenue from marketing-generated opportunities;

Led market expansion into European sports sponsorship, strengthening Shikenso’s impact beyond esports;

Recognized as a Top 10 Marketing & Sales Creator Malaysia on LinkedIn (Favikon), amplifying Shikenso’s global brand visibility;

• Featured in industry publications and invited to speak at sponsorship & marketing conferences across multiple continents.

Benedikt Becker participated as an eSports panel speaker at the ASEAN Gaming Summit 2023.

Now, as VP of Marketing, Benedikt will play a key role in disrupting the sponsorship intelligence market – bringing brands, rights holders, and agencies more transparency, accuracy, and real-time data in measuring sponsorship performance. By leveraging Shikenso’s AI-powered solutions, Shikenso aims to replace outdated reporting methods with fast, verified, and actionable insights, helping brands optimize investments with confidence. 

“Benedikt isn’t just a marketing leader – he’s a builder. He quickly became an essential part of Shikenso, spotting opportunities and executing with the same data-driven precision that defines our company,said Tarik Amhamdi, Co-Founder & Co-CEO of Shikenso. “He’s a problem-solver who consistently goes the extra mile, and his strategic vision has transformed how we position ourselves in the sponsorship industry. I’m excited to see how he contributes in Shikenso’s scaling and growth mission.” 

Benedikt’s elevation to VP reflects Shikenso’s commitment to redefining sponsorship intelligence – placing data-driven decision-making, AI innovation, and transparency at the core of industry transformation. 

Play’n GO reveals the stunning Crystal Hall slot game

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Play’n GO is inviting players to the amazing world of Crystal Hall, the latest addition to its ever-growing portfolio of innovative slot games.  

This title combines engaging mechanics with the sleek, timeless aesthetic of titles like Big Win 777 – delivering a gaming experience that is as captivating as it is rewarding.

Crystal Hall transports players to a lavish hall adorned with sparkling gems and mystical symbols. At the heart of this shimmering sanctuary lies a grand slot machine, adorned with dynamic symbols.

The gameplay in Crystal Hall blends classic elements with modern innovations. The Poker Chip symbol can be triggered when the Crystal symbol lands on reel three, introduces random Neon Frames to the reels, transforming them into high-paying symbols to boost player rewards.

Meanwhile, the Fortune Roll Feature comes alive when three Scatters land on reels two through four offer players Instant Prizes ranging from x5 to an impressive x200 their total bet.

Free Spins take the excitement to the next level. Players start with eight Free Spins when three Scatters appear, with the potential to retrigger additional spins throughout the feature. During Free Spins, the reels expand by one row, and Neon Frames that land become Sticky, staying in place until the feature ends.

As a final flourish – all Neon Frames transform into a high-paying symbol, creating thrilling moments of anticipation and massive win potential.

Games Ambassador at Play’n GO, Magnus Wallentin, said: “Crystal Hall represents the perfect fusion of classic slot gameplay and modern design. By combining popular slot mechanics with glittering jewel-themed aesthetics, we’ve created a game that has a broad appeal. We’re confident that players will love exploring the mysteries of Crystal Hall and chasing its glittering rewards.”

With its luxurious aesthetic, innovative features, and engaging gameplay, Crystal Hall is set to dazzle both seasoned slot fans and newcomers. Step into the legend and spin for your chance at glory.

Smart gaming tables increase strain on workers, Macau lawmaker warns

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Leong-Sun-Iok
Macau lawmaker Leong Sun Iok

The issue was highlighted by Macau lawmaker Leong Sun Iok, who expressed concern over the physical toll the new systems are imposing on frontline workers.

In a written inquiry, Leong Sun Iok pointed out that “some gaming operators have reported that the newly installed equipment is causing hand injuries among employees, who are required to complete operations within seconds. The prolonged repetitive movements exerting force can lead to musculoskeletal disorders, joint pain, and other occupational diseases, particularly tendonitis and other work-related musculoskeletal injuries, which restrict patients’ mobility and affect their daily lives.”

The inquiry also cited the Labor Affairs Bureau’s data, noting that, in the first nine months of 2024, there were 1,143 reported workplace injuries in the entertainment and gaming sectors, accounting for nearly 30 percent of all workplace accidents in the city. 

This problem is not new. In July of last year, nearly 1,000 gaming table supervisors reported similar complaints regarding the increased demands of managing smart tables. At the time, José Pereira Coutinho, another Macau lawmaker, raised the issue in a written inquiry, urging government intervention.

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

Need for occupational health standards

In light of these ongoing concerns, Leong Sun Iok has called for the introduction of strict occupational safety and health standards for gaming companies, particularly as new technologies like smart gaming tables are introduced. He has urged the Labor Affairs Bureau to monitor the impact of these new systems and ensure they meet safety standards designed to protect workers.

“Given that gaming companies are adopting new electronic equipment intending to reduce employee stress, it is important that these systems are evaluated to ensure they meet occupational health and safety standards,” said Leong Sun Iok. He has also proposed that the government require gaming companies to conduct comprehensive risk assessments of new equipment and submit related reports for government review before implementation.

The lawmaker’s proposal calls for collaboration between the Labor Affairs Bureau, gaming operators, and employees to create and implement strategies to reduce physical strain. These measures could include providing ergonomic work equipment, offering training to help employees adapt to new technology, and establishing mechanisms for workers to voice concerns and suggestions regarding workplace safety.

Sands China may resume dividends next week after five-year hiatus: JP Morgan 

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Sands China is set to resume dividend payments for the first time in five years, with the company’s Board of Directors scheduled to meet next Friday, February 21st, to consider recommending a dividend for fiscal year 2024.

According to JP Morgan’s latest investment memo, the timing of this potential dividend payout is earlier than initially expected. ‘The timing of the potential dividend resumption… is earlier than our current model,’ the memo states.

Previously, JP Morgan had projected that the first dividend for fiscal year 2025 would be paid in the second quarter of 2025. The earlier-than-anticipated move is seen as a ‘mildly positive’ development by analysts DS Kim, Mufan Shi, and Selina Li, though expectations remain cautious.

JP Morgan’s forecast for the initial dividend payout is modest. The bank expects Sands China to declare a dividend of HK$0.25 ($0.032) per half-year, or HK$0.50 ($0.064) annually for the calendar year 2025.

‘This would imply a 3 percent yield at current levels,’ the memo notes. While this is certainly an improvement over no dividend payments, analysts caution that the payout is unlikely to have a major impact on Sands China’s stock price in the short term. ‘It’s better than nothing, but likely won’t move the needle too much,’ the memo concludes.

On the horizon, JP Morgan analysts remain optimistic that Sands China will be able to increase its dividend payouts as the company continues to reduce its debt. ‘We continue to believe the size of the dividend can ramp up each year as it continues to de-lever,’ the memo explains.

The company could eventually return to pre-COVID dividend levels of HK$1.99 ($0.26) per share annually, a figure that would imply a yield of approximately 12.5 percent at current share prices.

According to the latest financial results, Sands China posted net revenues of $1.76 billion for 4Q24, representing a 5 percent decline year-on-year.

Ongoing upgrades primarily drove this decrease at The Londoner Macao and the Venetian Arena throughout the quarter. Compared to the third quarter of 2024, revenues were also slightly lower.

Sands China’s 4Q24 net income fell 17.7 percent year-on-year to $237 million. Additionally, adjusted EBITDA for its Macau operations decreased by 12.7 percent to $571 million, impacted by a low hold on rolling play.

Aristocrat completes sale of Plarium mobile gaming business to MTG

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Aristocrat Leisure Limited has officially completed the $820 million sale of Plarium Global Limited to Modern Times Group (MTG).

The transaction, which was first announced in November 2024, follows a strategic review of Aristocrat’s casual and mid-core gaming assets that commenced in May of last year.

The transaction included a fixed consideration of $620 million, with the potential for an additional $200 million based on the achievement of financial targets between 2025 and 2028.

At the time, Aristocrat’s subsidiary, Pixel United Holdings Limited, entered into a binding agreement with MTG, a leading international mobile-first gaming group known for its popular game franchises.

The fixed payment of $620 million consists of $600 million payable upon completion of the deal, with a deferred $20 million payment due in April 2026.

Trevor Croker, Aristocrat
Trevor Croker, CEO at Aristocrat

The proceeds from the sale will be utilized in alignment with Aristocrat’s long-term growth strategy and established capital management framework. An update regarding capital management is scheduled to be provided at the company’s Annual General Meeting in February.

“With the completion of the strategic review of our casual and mid-core gaming assets, Aristocrat is well placed to accelerate our refreshed growth strategy. We are deepening management focus and targeting investment behind our core strengths in regulated gaming and gaming-themed content, unlocking new and adjacent opportunities across global markets”, Trevor Croker, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Aristocrat, remarked in the announcement.

Croker added that the review outcomes reflect Aristocrat’s commitment to driving shareholder value through clear strategic choices and growth initiatives.

Aristocrat also highlighted that the transaction is projected to yield a gain in fiscal 2025. Furthermore, following a comprehensive evaluation of options to maximize shareholder value, Aristocrat has decided to restructure its Big Fish Games operations.

Moving forward, Big Fish will concentrate solely on the efficient operation of its existing titles, halting new game development and significantly reducing investment in its portfolio.

With the strategic review concluded, Aristocrat will also retire the Pixel United reporting segment along with its remaining corporate team structure. Effective from the Group’s first-half results reporting for the six months ending March 31st 2025, the Product Madness segment will replace Pixel United, encompassing results from both Product Madness and Big Fish.

aristocrat
Superna Kalle, Chief Strategy Officer at Aristocrat

Plarium will be classified as a discontinued operation, with its results excluded from the calculation of Net Profit after Tax and Before Amortization of Acquired Intangibles (NPATA).

As part of these organizational changes, Superna Kalle, Aristocrat’s Chief Strategy Officer, will assume executive leadership of Product Madness, in addition to her existing responsibilities in Strategy, Corporate Development, and critical enterprise capabilities such as Transformation and Data.