Good Morning. Pros and cons. The Philippines is assessing the potential consequences of a complete ban on online gambling amid rising concerns over gambling addiction, with lawmakers advocating for immediate action. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s racing wagering turnover reached HK$138.85 billion ($17.83 billion) in the 2024/25 season, marking a 3 percent increase from the previous year. The city, together with Macau, were also impacted by Typhoon Wipha this Sunday, with multiple disruptions to border crossings and scheduled flights.
What you need to know
- Philippines weighs total online gambling ban as President Marcos mulls decision ahead of SONA amid rising addiction and legislative pressure.
- Hong Kong’s racing wagering turnover reached $17.83 billion in the 2024/25 season, rising 3% and reversing the previous decline.
- Macau and Hong Kong were hit by Typhoon Wipha this Sunday, with the city’s main border checkpoints and flights disrupted by the storm.
On the radar
- India summons tech giants over investigation into betting app.
- Clark resort operator Hann secures $203M IPO amid gaming headwinds.
- Isle of Man gambling laws set for overhaul in GSC consultation.
- Operators urged to prepare as Ireland shifts to new licensing regime.
AGB Intelligence
PHILIPPINES
Philippine government considers full ban on online gambling
The Philippine government is currently evaluating the implications of a complete ban on all forms of online gambling, amid growing pressure from lawmakers who view it as a public health crisis affecting many Filipinos. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin stated that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has not yet decided on this issue ahead of his State of the Nation Address on July 28th. The review comes in light of increasing reports of financial harm due to gambling addiction. Advocates for a ban, such as Senator Raffy Tulfo, describe online gambling as an “epidemic,” while 14 licensed online gaming operators have opposed outright prohibition, arguing for enhanced regulations instead.
Corporate Spotlight
Why Asia’s iGaming operators must rethink risk strategy | SEON
Winning Trust, Stopping Fraud. Asia Pacific’s iGaming market is expanding extremely fast, and a new wave of digital-savvy players is pushing demand through the roof. But the rise in adoption has outpaced regulation in many markets, and fraudsters have taken notice.
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