1xAffiliates, a leading program with an effective tool for earning money through advertising in the fast-growing iGaming industry, has announced its participation in SiGMA Eurasia 2025, one of the largest international forums in the iGaming industry.
The summit, held from February 23 to 25 in Dubai, UAE, will bring together 14,000 delegates, almost 5,000 affiliates, and over 300 speakers.
1xAffiliates has confirmed its status as an industry leader by becoming the exhibition sponsor and invites guests to visit its booth 90D. The company’s top managers will be happy to share exclusive information about modern marketing solutions, innovative technologies, and unique opportunities for scaling your business with the brand’s affiliate program.
Gregory van der Wiel
Paris Saint-Germain legendary footballer and the Netherlands national team player Gregory van der Wiel will be a special guest at the 1xAffiliates booth! He won an impressive 10 trophies with the French giants and played an essential role in the squad that became the sole leader of French football in the middle of the last decade. Don’t miss this exclusive chance to meet a PSG star in person!
The 1xAffiliates team considers Eurasia an important region and actively develops collaboration with local partners. Participation in the exhibition will be an excellent opportunity to strengthen existing ties and establish new business contacts.
Among the guests of its booth, 1xAffiliates will draw PlayStation 5 game consoles, tickets to Paris Saint-Germain matches with the opportunity to attend training and communicate with the team, the French club’s retro jerseys, and fashionable merchandise. The super prize will be given to the winner by Gregory van der Wiel.
Drawings will be held on February 24 and 25 at 3:00 P.M. Additionally, 1xAffiliates has prepared exciting activities for its partners, including the Wheel of Fortune and tasty designer cocktails. Come to the brand’s booth for fresh ideas, productive networking, and cool gifts!
Good morning. Much ado in Korea. The surprise management takeover of Mohegan’s INSPIRE resort in Incheon has investors reeling, with the investment firm strongly believing that a corporate overhaul will fix the lack of income. But Mohegan is fighting back, claiming that it has been consecutively paying down its debt and there was no need for the brazen power grab. Meanwhile, in Macau, the top official has finally confirmed how reliant the SAR is on gaming revenue, noting that its efforts at diversification are not keeping up with the desired metrics.
What you need to know
Mohegan expresses concern over Bain Capital’s control of INSPIRE, claiming that despite financial challenges, it undermines other investor interests.
US-based gaming operator Mohegan has raised concerns about the management takeover of its INSPIRE resort in South Korea. The firm alleges that all of its payments were in line with ‘market precedents’ and that its investment so far has been in good faith. The company now aims to stymy a takeover by Bain Capital, as it hopes to find a mutually agreeable solution, noting that the current scenario is not beneficial to stakeholders.
In 2024, 1xBet achieved significant breakthroughs and successes, solidifying its position in the iGaming industry. The brand secured major partnership deals, received prestigious awards, and showcased its innovations at the world’s leading forums.
The Philippines’ Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) is considering legal action against local officials in Pasay City due to the continued operation of illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) within their jurisdiction.
Pasay, a highly urbanized city in the Philippines, borders Manila to the south. POGOs had been concentrated in Metro Manila, particularly in Pasay and Parañaque.
According to the Philippine News Agency, the PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio, speaking at a Palace press briefing on Wednesday, emphasized that the southern part of Metro Manila, including Pasay, Parañaque, and Makati, remains a key area for illegal POGOs.
The PAOCC is building a case against certain local government units (LGUs) in these cities, particularly Pasay, following multiple POGO raids.
Casio noted that the ongoing investigation is examining the potential criminal liability of Pasay City officials, focusing on their role in issuing business permits and mayor’s permits. While the investigation is still in progress, collaboration with the Department of Justice and the Department of the Interior and Local Government is ongoing.
Raids in Pasay have included operations at locations such as SA Rivendell, Zun Yuan Technology, Kimberhi Technology, and the Heritage Hotel.
Earlier this week, the PAOCC also set a new target to eliminate all illegal POGOs by the end of the year, as all POGOs had already been banned by the end of 2024.
Meanwhile, Bureau of Immigration (BI) spokesperson Dana Sandoval reported that 11,254 foreign POGO workers remain in the Philippines, despite government orders for them to leave following the industry’s closure last year. These workers, primarily from Vietnam, China, Indonesia, and Myanmar, are facing deportation and have been added to the BI’s blacklist.
Sandoval clarified that this figure excludes those who were already working with illegal POGOs. According to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation’s (PAGCOR) list, there are approximately 33,863 foreign nationals employed by registered POGOs, with 22,609 having already left the country. The remaining workers are now classified as illegal aliens.
So far, BI operations have led to the arrest of 518 foreign POGO workers in four major operations this year, including raids in Parañaque, Silang, Cavite, and Pasay.
New Zealand and Australia gaming operator SkyCity Entertainment Group has announced that it saw a 41.5 percent drop in underlying total net profit for the last six months of 2024, largely due to the settlement with South Australia due to its gaming duty.
According to the group’s most recent financials, group revenue fell by 5 percent, on lower spend per visit, topping out at AU$422 million during the period.
Group EBITDA was down by 2 percent, amounting to AU$11.3.1 million.
Despite the slight downturn in results, SkyCity remains optimistic, noting that it has a solid balance sheet and customer visitation levels remain strong.
It also promotes the opening of the New Zealand International Convention Center (NZICC) – scheduled for a February 2026 opening.
The group that its macros for the period were affected by ‘lower spending resulting from challenging macro-economic conditions’.
Speaking of the results, Chief Executive Officer Jason Walbridge noted “We continue to operate in challenging market conditions with subdued consumer confidence, so we’re pleased to see strength in our visitation numbers as people continue to enjoy coming to SKyCity for their entertainment”.
The executive notes the continued focus on tourism both in Australia and New Zealand, noting that the company has a “big part to play in the tourism sector”, while highlighting the opening of the NZICC.
Group NPAT for the period was down by 73 percent yearly, as a result of interest costs due to the ‘long-standing gaming duty matter with Revenue South Australia’.
However the group lauded its hotel performance, in particular that of Horizon Hotel in Auckland, noting it is “outperforming the market in terms of occupancy”, with further expected strength after the opening of NZICC.
Thai officials emphasized that the nation is intensifying its cooperation with China to tackle transnational crimes, particularly online gambling and fraud.
According to Xinhua, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa underscored Thailand’s commitment to international collaboration, particularly with China, to address these pressing issues.
Recent discussions between Chinese Ambassador to Thailand Han Zhiqiang and Thai officials focused on strategies to combat online gambling and fraud, especially in regions like Myawaddy.
These talks included efforts to rescue Chinese citizens who have fallen victim to such crimes. Ambassador Han noted that during Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s recent trip to China, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to jointly tackle online gambling and related criminal activities.
This collaboration is not new; previous meetings have laid the groundwork for this partnership.
China’s President Xi Jinping recently expressed concerns regarding Thailand’s plan to legalize casinos, highlighting potential social issues that could arise from such a move.
This comment was made during a meeting with Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who confirmed that Xi sought further details about the proposed casino-entertainment complex.
As Chinese tourists represent a significant source of visitors to Thailand, Xi’s input is particularly important given China’s strict policies on gambling and its ongoing crackdown on illegal gaming operations.
In late 2023, Thai and Chinese officials convened to discuss increasing cooperation on law enforcement, which included sharing intelligence related to transnational crimes. These initial discussions highlighted the growing concern over the proliferation of online gambling platforms that operate outside legal frameworks, endangering citizens in both countries.
The law enforcement agencies of Thailand and China have already initiated collaborative actions, leading to promising outcomes.
For instance, coordinated raids on illegal gambling operations have resulted in significant arrests and the dismantling of several fraud rings. Han expressed optimism for future cooperation, emphasizing the need for a robust mechanism to enhance joint efforts against cross-border crimes that threaten public safety and economic stability.
In their response, Phumtham and Maris reiterated Thailand’s proactive stance on international cooperation in fighting transnational crimes. They announced a series of effective measures already implemented, including increased surveillance and stricter penalties for offenders.
The Thai government aims to create a safer environment for its citizens and visitors alike, enhancing regional security.
Furthermore, both countries are exploring avenues to share intelligence and resources, which could lead to the development of a more comprehensive approach to combating online crimes. This collaboration is seen as essential not only for protecting citizens but also for fostering trust and stability in the region.
Macau’s long-standing reliance on its gaming industry remains a significant challenge to achieving economic diversification, admits Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai.
During the first plenary session of the 2025 Economic Development Commission on Wednesday, Sam acknowledged that the structural issue of a gaming-dominated economy is unlikely to change fundamentally in the near future.
Despite efforts to promote diversification, Macau’s local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) still face common challenges, while initiatives such as the development of Hengqin through Guangdong-Macau cooperation have yet to yield the desired economic transformation.
In a candid statement, Sam emphasized the difficulty of changing Macau’s economic structure, noting that the path to diversification is far from smooth.
“The issue of Macau’s overdependence on the gaming industry is a structural problem that will be difficult to solve in the foreseeable future,” he said.
This is the first time that Macau’s top official has been so direct about the current situation. Just one or two years ago, officials advocated that Macau was no longer a gaming hub, citing that the main purpose of visits was no longer gaming-related.
The reality is that gaming recovered rapidly after COVID, while other sectors in Macau, especially SMEs, lagged behind. In 2024, the situation worsened due to a significant outflow of local consumers to mainland China.
In this context, Sam pointed out that these persistent issues, along with new challenges emerging in the wake of shifting economic conditions, require immediate attention and thoughtful solutions.
At the meeting, Sam called for a collaborative approach to addressing these challenges. He urged members of the Economic Development Committee and other sectors of society to work together to develop realistic and effective solutions. He encouraged more constructive, feasible, and long-term proposals that would benefit Macau’s overall economic development.
Looking ahead, Sam emphasized that 2025 will be a pivotal year for Macau, marking the beginning of the sixth-term Special Administrative Region (SAR) government. He committed to coordinating efforts to drive the region’s economic and social development.
“We must work together to stabilize the economy while also finding ways to invigorate it and push for positive economic growth,” the official said.
He highlighted the need for a forward-thinking approach—one that leverages innovation and reform to drive diversified economic development. This includes advancing cooperation with hopes of achieving new breakthroughs in the Guangdong-Macau Cooperation Zone in Hengqin. Sam expressed his desire to enhance the involvement and sense of gain for both industry players and residents, ensuring a more inclusive path to prosperity.
The Philippines gaming regulator (PAGCOR) has affirmed its support for Special Class Business Process Outsourcing (SCBPOs), amongst the ongoing crackdown on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
According to a recent memo, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco assured foreign chambers of commerce that the regulator will continue to vouch for the operation of SCCBPOs and their ‘expanding operations in the Philippines’.
“We recognize the immense contribution of the SCBPOs in creating thousands of jobs for our countrymen, and we thank our foreign investors for recognizing the unique talent of our workers who provide excellent outsourced services for them,” indicated Tengco.
The official reiterated how the operators are similar to BPOs, that support business operations in other countries and are licensed by PAGCOR to cater to gaming companies abroad.
“The only difference from regular BPOs is that SCBPOs support the operations of legitimate gaming companies overseas, many of which are listed firms, by providing human resource, marketing, graphic design, accounting and other back office work,” Tengco stated.
“We also make sure that the SCBPOs are not directly engaged in gaming operations such as taking or soliciting bets,” indicated the official.
PAGCOR notes that the SCBPO sector currently employs nearly 5,000 local workers, and has further plans to expand operations and local hiring due to the strong local talent pool.
Some 95 percent of current hires are mandated to be local.
“This industry has so much potential, and we are fully committed to its growth and capability to generate more employment for our people,” stated Tengco.
Aristocrat Gaming, a leading slot machine and casino game manufacturer, has announced the launch of the eagerly awaited House of the Dragon slot game, set to captivate casino floors across the U.S.
Featured on the cutting-edge King Max cabinet, Aristocrat Gaming’s House of the Dragon slot game delivers a richly themed and captivating gaming experience, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the action and excitement of the HBO Original Series.
House of the Dragon slot game is the first game with five overlapping metamorphic combining features with “Mega Prize,” “Boost Prize,” “Double All,” Award All,” and “Instant Win.”
Five metamorphic dragon eggs grow and unleash entertaining features along the player’s journey through the world of the House of the Dragon. “Mega Prize” lands a credit prize and a chance at any progressive prize. “Boost Prize” boosts randomly selected Cash on Reels prizes. “Double All” doubles the values of all Cash on Reels prizes. “Award All” combines all Cash on Reels prizes onto the Award all egg. “Instant Win” randomly awards any held Cash on Reels prizes to the win meter.
Adding to the excitement, the “Gold Egg Feature” triggers all five metamorphics together! House of the Dragon slot game is a Class 3, multi-denom, lines game with linked Grand Progressive.
The game builds on the premium licensed game portfolio Aristocrat Gaming offers, in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment – including the ever-popular Game of Thrones slot game family featuring different game titles spanning multiple seasons.
Following the successful go-live at its sister casino in Lisbon, the renowned Casino Estoril has now implemented the NOVOVISION casino management system, establishing a futureproof backbone for its business and enhancing both customer service and experience to the fullest.
Casino Estoril is renowned for its illustrious history and spectacular size, encompassing not only a broadly diversified casino slots and table games offer, but also five bars, three restaurants, two show venues hosting international show acts and a spacious art gallery.
Black and Silver Room, Casino Estoril
The games comprise more than 490 slot machines as well as Poker, Roulette, Black Jack, Baccarat and the typically Portuguese dice game French Bank. It is a casino with a rich history, deeply rooted in the international entertainment and show business and popular with local guests and tourists alike.
NOVOVISION was implemented at the Casino Estoril with a premium suite of functionalities, enhancing the business processes as well as the player journey with the manifold tools of NV core, access, pay, promo, smart, tables and more. Brand-new NOVOVISION Self Registration Terminals facilitate fast player access to the gaming floor while maintaining the highest security standards.
To enter the casino floors, players can choose to either agree to a biometric registration via fingerprint / facial scan with card or will receive a one-off QR code ticket that entitles them to pass the NV access gates. Most of the live tables have been retrofitted with facial recognition equipment and all EGMs have been equipped with NOVOVISION Player Tracking Modules that will facilitate a smooth gaming experience with the guests’ player account instantly available to them at their fingertips.
The maximum ease of play is sustained by an accurate allocation of promotional points and extra loyalty features at the NOVOVISION Promo Tower. At the same time, the casino benefits from precise accounting and player tracking data at the touch of a button and in real time.
The system installation at the Casino Estoril was carried out during ongoing business and went live in mid-February after a smooth roll-out that was accomplished within just one week. For both casino venues, Estoril Sol have also opted for the full biometric functionalities as well as BI, the NV smart notifier app for their staff, comprehensive marketing & loyalty features and the custom-tailored QR access solution.
George Paterakis, Project Manager NBS, commented: “Seeing NOVOVISION in operation in these renowned casinos is very gratifying for our entire team. The joint effort that was put into this project both by our development teams and the experts at Estoril Sol has yielded a highly customized solution for the unique requirements of these operations – and I am truly proud to say that we were able to fulfill every wish. My sincere thanks go to all teams involved, to our trusted local partner Diverstock and to the Estoril Sol management for entrusting us with the innovation of their casino management.”
Marcos Pinto, Managing Director Diverstock, added: “On behalf of the Diverstock team, I would like to thank all involved for the excellent work and support along the entire process. It was admirable to see the synchronized way in which the different teams, from different entities, have managed to work together and carried out an implementation plan in half the scheduled time. Witnessing at close quarters the quality of the work carried out by all the teams involved was extremely gratifying. Special thanks to Dr. Bruno Ferreira and the Executive Committee of Estoril Sol for giving us the opportunity to be part of an ambitious but necessary process of modernizing their operations.”
Bruno Ferreira, Gaming Manager at Casinos Lisboa and Estoril
Dr. Bruno Ferreira, Gaming Manager at Casinos Lisboa and Estoril, said: “With this implementation Estoril Sol completes the systems migration in both properties. System-wise we have a robust solution and will be able to transform our customers’ journey and experience. The migration process was once again quick and efficient. I would like to thank NOVOMATIC’s management team for their support throughout the process, and their entire operational team involved in this implementation.”
“I also need to thank Diverstock, Estoril Sol’s long-standing partner, for their commitment and support throughout the process. Once again Estoril Sol team was up to the challenge and exceeded themselves. Together they were all crucial to the success of this implementation.”
Pragmatic Play, a leading content supplier to the iGaming industry, has announced the release of Immersive Roulette Deluxe, which enhances a player favourite with cinematic slow-motion replays of the ball coming to rest in the wheel.
Retaining all the familiar aspects of the iconic table game, Immersive Roulette Deluxe harnesses the latest in video technology to capture the outcome of each round in stunning 4K quality.
The new live title offers all standard inside and outside bets, along with a comprehensive selection of special bets and detailed statistics for the last 500 spins.
While capturing where the ball lands up close and from unique camera angles, Immersive Roulette Deluxe keeps the gameplay fast and fun.
Immersive Roulette Deluxe follows the recent hit game show Fortune Roulette as the latest title in Pragmatic Play’s award-winning Live Casino portfolio.
Irina Cornides, Chief Operating Officer at Pragmatic Play, said: “Immersive Roulette Deluxe from Pragmatic Play preserves the popular features and fast-paced gameplay of roulette while elevating the player experience to include slow-motion replays of the ball landing in the wheel.”
