Oddin.gg to lead the spotlight at ICE Barcelona 2025 with Esports Arena and conference sponsorship

Europe

AGBrief Editorial

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October 9, 2024

Oddin.gg to lead the spotlight at ICE Barcelona 2025 with Esports Arena and conference sponsorship

This partnership with Clarion Gaming makes proof of Oddin.gg’s position as the leading force in esports betting, and the collaboration will enhance the world’s most influential gaming technology expo as it makes its debut in Barcelona.

As the number one B2B choice for esports betting, Oddin.gg offers a full-service suite of products including the newly launched BetBuilder, alongside established products such as the esports iFrame, odds feed, risk management services, esports marketing services and more—all designed to engage bettors and maximize profitability for operators. This extensive product offering supports international industry giants like Betano, ESPNbet, Stake, Betsson, Aristocrat, Betway, Yolo Group, and many others on a global scale.

Will Harding, Clarion Gaming — _{Will Harding, Head of Esports, Clarion Gaming}

Confirming details of the landmark sponsorship, Will Harding, Head of Esports at Clarion Gaming, commented: “First of all, I’m delighted that we’re able to announce such a prestigious brand as our headline sponsor for what’s shaping up to be a historic edition of ICE.

“In partnership with Oddin.gg, we will be hosting a four-team Counter-Strike tournament with full on-site production. Oddin.gg will supply the odds and help explain both the content and why esports is such a commercially important vertical for operators. The Arena will be even more impressive in our new venue, and I’m confident it will remain the most visited feature on the ICE show floor.”

He continued, “The ICE Esports Conference complements what visitors will experience at the Arena. Going into its third year, we expect an audience exceeding 300, comprising esports professionals, operators, and representatives from throughout the esports betting ecosystem.”

Marek Suchar, Oddin.gg — Marek Suchar, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Oddin.gg at ASEAN Gaming Summit

Looking ahead to ICE, Oddin.gg Co-Founder and Managing Director, Marek Suchar, noted: “Esports betting isn’t just part of our business—it’s something we’re truly passionate about. This partnership with Clarion gives us the opportunity to share that passion with the wider iGaming community.

“To its credit, since 2019, Clarion has played a crucial role in promoting esports, and our aim is to use the high-profile platform that it provides to educate all sectors of the industry, and, in the process, cement esports’ position in the mainstream. At ICE, we look forward to connecting with thousands of professionals, offering them a behind-the-scenes look at the esports community and also a ‘sneak peek’ at our approach to esports betting.”

“From BetBuilder to risk management, we’re not just offering another service—we’re providing end-to-end solutions that lead the industry. This sponsorship is far more than a branding exercise; it’s a chance to actively engage with the industry, demonstrate that esports is more than a ‘type of sport’ but an evolving entertainment vertical, and show how Oddin.gg’s suite of solutions is ready to support, commercialize, and drive the exciting future of esports.” added Marek Suchar.

In the latest investment report released after Wynn Resorts’ Investor Day, the brokerage notes that over the past few years, the company has witnessed a significant shift in its business mix, largely due to expansions and contractions across its key properties. These include notable growth at Wynn Las Vegas and the ramp-up at Encore Boston Harbor, alongside a modest contraction at Wynn Macau.

In 2019, Wynn’s business was heavily reliant on Macau, with 76 percent of its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and restructuring or rent costs (EBITDAR) coming from the region. However, the evolving dynamics of the company, alongside consolidated EBITDAM projections for Wynn Al Marjan Island and 2026 consensus estimates, signal a more balanced future cash flow profile.

Deutsche Bank’s report highlighted a scenario where Wynn Al Marjan Island could contribute meaningfully to Wynn’s earnings. By factoring in “stabilized management and license fees, as well as the 40 percent share of adjusted property EBITDA” from Wynn Al Marjan Island, alongside 2026 EBITDAR forecasts, the analysis suggests that Wynn’s shares are trading with a free cash flow yield range of 14.4 percent to 16.1 percent.

Although this is an attractive range, the bank noted that the analysis included full consolidation of Wynn Macau, which may overstate the figures somewhat. Historically, Wynn’s shares have traded within a yield range of 6 to 10 percent.

Wynn Al Marjan Island, Hotel entrance project render, Wynn Resorts — _{Wynn Al Marjan Island, Arrival at Hotel, project render. Source: Wynn Resorts}

Projected growth in UAE

Wynn Resorts also projects significant growth in the UAE gaming market. The company anticipates the total gross gaming revenue (GGR) market size to be between $3 billion and $5 billion, assuming two additional operators eventually enter the market.

Wynn Al Marjan Island, slated to open in the first quarter of 2027, is expected to generate between $1.0 billion and $1.66 billion in GGR.

These estimates assume GGR will range from 0.6 percent to 1.0 percent of the UAE’s GDP, which, while discounted compared to Singapore (1.2 percent) and Australia (1.1 percent), would still represent a premium to the U.S. (0.4 percent).

Additionally, net revenue for Wynn Al Marjan Island is projected to be in the range of $1.375 billion to $1.875 billion, with expected margins of 36 percent to 43 percent, supported by favorable market conditions and lower tax rates compared to Macau.

Analysts Carlo Santarelli and Steven Pizzella indicate that one aspect Wynn has consistently excelled in is accurately forecasting the operating expense structure for greenfield developments. In the case of the UAE, the company expects operating expenses, excluding gaming taxes, to be between $2 million and $2.4 million per day.

This is comparable to Macau’s $2.5 million daily operating cost, but with the added benefit of the UAE’s significantly lower gaming tax rate. This lower tax burden could drive higher margins for Wynn Al Marjan Island, further enhancing profitability relative to Macau.

Wynn Al Marjan Island construction works, Wynn Resorts — _{Wynn Al Marjan Island construction works as of 30/09/2024. Source: Wynn Resorts}

Projections for Wynn Al Marjan Island

Despite the challenges that come with projecting revenue for new developments in untapped gaming markets, Deutsche Bank believes that the UAE market dynamics, including operational expenditure assumptions and tax rates, lend credibility to the property’s potential. The report notes that Wynn has set an EBITDA target between $500 million and $800 million for Wynn Al Marjan Island.

Wynn Resorts’ proven ability to outperform peers in terms of EBITDA per hotel room also supports this target. For example, Wynn Las Vegas has consistently exceeded expectations in terms of profitability. Based on current assumptions, Wynn anticipates that its Al Marjan Island property could generate between $324,000 and $519,000 in EBITDA per hotel room annually.

For comparison, Wynn Macau’s assets have generated approximately $407,000 per room over the last twelve months, despite facing more competition and a higher gaming tax rate. Meanwhile, Marina Bay Sands, operating in Singapore’s comparable market, has produced $1.05 million per hotel room over the same period.

Maria oversees the company’s growth and development in both the Macau and Southeast Asian markets. Before joining APE, Ms. Garcia spent over 17 years in public relations and event management, coordinating significant events in Macau, Hong Kong, and China for private, diplomatic, and governmental entities.

Maria Garcia joined APE in 2006 as Sales Director of the Corporate Sales and Marketing Department, serving for six years before leaving to pursue various roles within the gaming sector and founding her own business. In 2020, she returned to APE as a Business Consultant and resumed her role as Sales Director for Macau and Southeast Asia in December 2022, where she continues to serve to this day.

With more than 36 years of work experience, nearly 20 of which have been in the gaming industry, Ms. Garcia’s achievements and professionalism are both significant and commendable.

Mr. Herman Ng, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of APE said, “We are delighted to welcome Maria to the board. I have had the pleasure of working with her for over a decade. She is an industry expert with extensive knowledge, experience, and a wide network of connections. I am confident she will excel in this role.”

Maria Garcia, Asia Pioneer Entertainment — _{Maria Garcia, Board of Directors, Asia Pioneer Entertainment}

Speaking about her new position, Maria Garcia expressed her excitement, stating, “It is a true honor to join APE’s board as its first female director. The past few years have been challenging for the company, particularly due to the impact of the global pandemic. I am proud of our resilience and the progress we’ve made together during these times. In my new role, I am committed to fully utilizing my strengths to tackle future opportunities and challenges alongside APE as we work towards a bright and successful future.”

With her extensive experience and leadership, Ms. Garcia’s appointment underscores APE’s commitment to diversity and excellence in the gaming industry, paving the way for future growth and innovation.

According to Trip.com data, the National Day holiday offers better value for tourism compared to other holidays, such as Labor Day and the Dragon Boat Festival. In terms of outbound travel, the top destinations included Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia.

Additionally, the travel platform notes that Brazil, the Philippines, Mexico, the UK, and the UAE emerged as the fastest-growing outbound destinations. These locations attracted a significant number of Chinese tourists, becoming a new driving force for the global tourism industry.

The report also highlighted that international flight volumes from China to destinations like Singapore and Malaysia have fully recovered and surpassed levels seen in the same period of 2019. With the increase in supply, prices for short-haul outbound routes have returned to rational levels.

Data indicate that during the Golden Week period, flight prices for short-haul routes to Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia are now comparable to those in 2019, making it easier for families to travel.

The proportion of family travel during this holiday increased from 34 percent to 37 percent, with the average spending on family trips exceeding twice that of overall spending, further driving tourism consumption in these destinations.

In terms of booking trends, Trip.com data revealed that the average advance booking time for travelers during the National Day holiday decreased from 6.8 days in 2023 to 6 days in 2024. Nearly 30 percent of travelers chose to depart on the same day or just one day in advance, an increase of 6 percentage points compared to the previous year.

This trend suggests that staggered travel is gradually becoming the new norm, with many travelers opting to spread their long holiday travel needs throughout the year to achieve a better cost-performance ratio and a more comfortable travel experience.

According to China’s National Immigration Administration, border inspection agencies handled a total of 13.1 million inbound and outbound travelers, averaging 1.87 million per day, a 25.8 percent increase compared to last year. The peak day for entry and exit occurred on October 5, with 2.035 million crossings.

Among these, 7.589 million were mainland residents (up 33.2 percent from last year), 4.494 million were residents from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan (up 13.2 percent), and 1.014 million were foreigners (up 37.2 percent). A total of 574,000 transport vehicles were checked, representing a 32.6 percent increase from last year.

SOFTSWISS supports Pink October initiative

Elsewhere

AGBrief Editorial

-

October 9, 2024

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SOFTSWISS supports Pink October initiative

SOFTSWISS, a leading tech company with over 15 years of expertise in iGaming, joins the global Pink October initiative to attract attention to preventing breast cancer.

This year’s Pink October campaign at SOFTSWISS is themed “A Minute Today, a Future Ahead” and emphasizes the importance of early detection and preventative care. Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women, and early diagnosis is key in the fight against the disease. When it is noticed early, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.

Early detection involves doing monthly breast self-exams and planning regular clinical breast exams and mammograms. Half of the 2,000 SOFTSWISS employees are women, and the company will refund each of them for ultrasounds and mammograms in October and November.

Pink October at SOFTSWISS offers a wide range of activities throughout the month. In addition to reimbursing for medical examinations, an online webinar on mental health will provide valuable insights for those who face the disease. To support the international charity movement “Butterfly Support Mission”, women from SOFTSWISS will take part in a themed race.

The company’s employees also personally support the initiative. To further raise awareness, prominent female influencers from the SOFTSWISS community share information about the campaign across social media, amplifying the message of self-care and vigilance.

“Health is a crucial value beyond everything. At SOFTSWISS, we aim to help and support our employees’ well-being and health every day. By promoting the Pink October initiative, we want to stress the importance of well-timed self-care and make this issue visible both within the iGaming industry and beyond,” shares Chief Marketing Officer at SOFTSWISS, Valentina Bagniya.

Notably, the iGaming industry recognised SOFTSWISS’ strong dedication to ensuring the best working conditions for its employees. A few weeks ago, SOFTSWISS received the esteemed accolade “Employer of the Year” at the SBC Awards.

Supporting the Pink October initiative for the second year in a row, SOFTSWISS continues to lead by example, emphasising the importance of preventive health measures and community support. Through this initiative, the company hopes to inspire its employees and society to take action today for a healthier tomorrow.

This expansion is anticipated to generate approximately PHP250 billion ($4.3 billion) in investments and create around 57,000 jobs in the hotel industry. The report also highlights the government’s intensified focus on enhancing airport infrastructure, with major hotels and tourism destination airports currently being bid out.

In terms of regional developments, Luzon accounts for 50 percent of the national pipeline, with notable projects in Clark, which will add 2,098 keys, and over 8,000 keys in the National Capital Region (NCR).

The Visayas region represents 42 percent of new projects, largely driven by leisure tourism in destinations such as Boracay, Mactan Island, and Panglao Island. Mindanao holds 8 percent of the pipeline, with significant contributions from Davao City, Cagayan de Oro City, and Siargao.

In Metro Manila, Parañaque City is set to lead with an influx of new hotel keys. Upcoming openings include Banyan Tree Manila Bay, Hotel Okura Manila Bay, and the city’s fourth integrated casino complex, Westside City Resorts.

Westside City Project, Philippines, Suntrust Holdings — *_{Westside City prject}*

Manila Westside City — *_{Westside City prject}*

In Makati, Ayala Land Hotels and Resorts Corp is leading the majority of new developments, while Ascott will manage the remaining inventory. Quezon City is expected to see 70 percent of its pipeline keys supplied by local brands, including Fili Hotel – Bridgetown and Hotel 101 Libis.

The top 10 hotel developers will account for 54 percent of the national pipeline keys, with 55 percent of these projects utilizing alternative ownership models, such as condotels, to enhance cash flow during development.

Developers are strategically targeting prime locations, particularly resort and casino destinations, to capitalize on robust tourism demand. The pipeline is focusing on upper midscale and upper upscale hotels, catering to both premium leisure and business travelers.

Good morning. The situation is evolving out there. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime warns that Southeast Asia is increasingly threatened by cybercrime and illegal online gambling, with losses estimated to reach up to $37 billion in 2023. Organized crime groups are leveraging these platforms for illicit activities. Meanwhile, in the UAE, Wynn Resorts increased the UAE casino project budget to $5.1 billion, aiming for high-net-worth clientele with a new gaming license secured.

What you need to know

The UN reports alarming illegal online gambling and cyber fraud growth in Southeast Asia, causing $37 billion in financial losses.
Wynn Resorts boosts its UAE project budget to $5.1 billion, targeting affluent clients following the acquisition of a gaming license.

On the radar

Light & Wonder had a solid 3Q24 despite Dragon Train removals: DB.
Macau welcomed over 993k visitors during October Golden Week.
Alice Guo withdraws from the 2025 reelection bid for Bamban Mayor.
Thailand’s Tourism Minister urges business support for casino plan.
POGO could influence 2025 elections, warns Anti-Organized Crime Commission.

AGB Intelligence

CYBER CRIME

Rising cyber fraud and gambling threaten Southeast Asia: UN

Southeast Asia is grappling with an alarming surge in illegal online gambling and cyber fraud, according to a recent report from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The report estimates that financial losses linked to scams in the region could reach between $18 billion and $37 billion in 2023. Organized crime groups are increasingly exploiting unregulated online casinos and high-risk virtual asset service providers, creating a complex web of money laundering and cyber-enabled fraud that challenges law enforcement efforts across the region.

Corporate Spotlight

Altenar brings premium sportsbook solution to Asia

Altenar, a leading sportsbook provider is bringing its global expertise to Asia, looking to expand its operations. Since 2011, Altenar has powered hundreds of online sports betting sites worldwide and is a major B2B provider in Europe and Latin America licensed markets.

1xBet: The most popular gambling games and slots in Asia

For global betting company 1xBet, Asia is a key market for several reasons. This is why 1xBet pays special attention to the Asian market and actively promotes its sports betting platform and the most popular gambling games on the continent.

Industry Updates

FeedConstruct partners with H League on Exclusive International Betting Rights.
Aristocrat Gaming was awarded with the Land-Based Industry Supplier of the Year.

MEMBERSHIP | INTELLIGENCE | ASEAN | CAREERS

Speaking at the “ASEAN Economic Outlook 2025” event in honor of the 37th anniversary of Krungthep Turakij newspaper, Sorawong, who also serves as secretary general of the Pheu Thai Party, emphasized that this initiative could play a major role in elevating Thailand’s economic standing. With a vision of Thailand re-emerging as “the fifth tiger of Asia,” Sorawong sees the entertainment complex as a key driver of this transformation.

He made a point to dispel the notion that the complex would focus solely on gambling, saying, “To think of this project as just a casino is missing the bigger picture.” Instead, the complex is envisioned as a sprawling hub featuring amusement parks, restaurants, bars, game centers, and department stores—all aimed at diversifying the nation’s tourism appeal.

Sorawong acknowledged that political discussions around the project have been fraught with opposition, and called on the private sector to step in, voicing support where political discourse has faltered. “I ask the business community to speak up. Their involvement is crucial to bringing this vision to life,” he urged.

The project has already undergone public hearings led by the Fiscal Policy Office, with the next steps involving a formal proposal to the Cabinet for review. Sorawong sees this as a turning point for Thailand’s tourism industry, suggesting the entertainment complex could become the kind of landmark destination the country currently lacks.

He also hinted at broader plans to bolster Thailand’s global profile, noting that 2025 will be a “grand year” for tourism and sports, as the nation gears up to host high-profile events like the 33rd Southeast Asian Games and the Thailand Grand Prix in Buriram.

While the minister is optimistic about the project’s potential, he reiterated that success will require strong backing from Thailand’s private sector, saying, “These developments will not materialize without the business community’s full support.”

With its ambitious plans, Thailand is looking to reposition itself among Asia’s economic powerhouses, hoping to recapture the energy that once earned it a place alongside the “Four Asian Tigers” of Singapore, Hong Kong, South Korea, and Taiwan.

PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio expressed concerns that despite an official ban, POGOs remain active and may financially back candidates linked to Chinese criminal syndicates. The warning comes as dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo, allegedly tied to POGO-related activities, was keen to seek her candidacy, further fueling fears of political manipulation by such operators.

However, yesterday, Alice Guo announced that she would not seek reelection as mayor of Bamban in 2025 in an effort to clear her name amid the ongoing cases filed against her.

As election season heats up, the PAOCC is urging vigilance, noting the ongoing risk of “POGO politics.” The influence of these gaming operations, particularly from Chinese criminal organizations, remains a serious concern despite government crackdowns. Casio pointed out that POGOs continue to operate, with recent raids revealing new hires, indicating their persistence despite official bans.

This issue highlights broader concerns regarding transparency and the integrity of the upcoming elections. Guo, linked to POGOs, has over P1 billion in assets frozen by the Court of Appeals and is under investigation by the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC). According to Representative Jil Bongalon, Guo’s financial dealings have drawn scrutiny due to large withdrawals and property disposals ahead of the freeze order, suggesting potential preemptive actions to secure funds.

The PAOCC’s warning underscores how deeply POGOs are intertwined with both criminal syndicates and the local political landscape. As the 2025 elections approach, it remains to be seen how effective the government’s efforts will be in mitigating POGO influence, or if these operators will continue to evade accountability by embedding themselves in Philippine politics. This situation sheds light on the pervasive corruption that allows these organizations to flourish despite government interventions.

Oddin.gg to lead the spotlight at ICE Barcelona 2025 with Esports Arena and conference sponsorship

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ICE Barcelona 2025

ICE Barcelona returns on 20-22 January 2025 at Fira Barcelona Gran Via bringing together the entire gaming industry over three days of networking and education.