(Newswire.net — March 8, 2024) — 2024’s gambling industry is witnessing remarkable growth, marking the latest online casino industry news.
Globally, the market, valued at $63.53 billion in 2022, is projected to reach $184.28 billion by 2032. In Australia, industry revenue is set to hit US$11.39 billion in 2024, with a potential increase to US$13.96 billion by 2028, growing at a 5.22% CAGR.
Companies like Aristocrat, NetEnt, Novomatic, Playtech, as well as Microgaming are leading software developers in this sector. These providers are pivotal in shaping online gambling experiences, offering various games. Dive deep to explore the world casino news available for today covering finance, tech innovations, laws, and gaming conferences.
Latest Online Casino News Today from Reliable Providers
Recent online casino news with a focus on famous free pokies providers including Aristocrat, Playtech, Playson, Konami, etc.
Aristocrat Gaming Expands into the Quebec Market
Québec’s distinct gaming culture makes it a key market for Aristocrat. The company’s strategic entry will feature a ten-game launch set. Titles include Bao Zhu Zhao Fu Red Festival, Fire Light, Fu Dai Lian Lian Panda, Scorchin’ Fortune, Prosperity of the Nile, and Flamin’ Hits, all on MidKnight X Upright cabinets.
| Kurt Gissane, Aristocrat Gaming’s Chief Revenue Officer, highlighted this expansion’s significance: “Gaining entry into the Québec VLT market is another major milestone for the company, demonstrating our vested interest in these emerging segments, and allowing us to bring our award-winning products to new markets and their players.” |  |
💡 About Aristocrat Gaming (Aristocrat Leisure Ltd)
Aristocrat Gaming, a part of Aristocrat Leisure Limited, specializes in creating software and technology for online pokies. They’re known for their unique feature that allows players on different machines to win a progressive jackpot. The full collection of free pokies by Aristocrat provider, including the title hits like Queen of the Nile, 5 Dragons, and Buffalo is available to play with no download and no registration on PC or mobile device on various websites with free pokies like Pokiesman, AskGamblers or Casino.org.
Playtech PLC Extended its Agreement with Boyle Sports until 2028
It was announced on the official Playtech website
Playtech PLC and BoyleSports extended their partnership until 2028, covering the UK and Ireland. BoyleSports has teamed up with Playtech for online casino, live casino, bingo, and poker content. Playtech will remain the exclusive provider of BoyleSports’ live casino until 2025 and will retain exclusivity over BoyleSports’ live casino-branded tables, poker, and bingo until the end of 2028.
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Panos Scoursis, Commercial Director at Playtech, said, “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with BoyleSports and look forward to continuing to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers.” |
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Steve Payne, Gaming Director at BoyleSports, commented, “Having had a strong and successful partnership with Playtech for many years, we see this extension as an exciting opportunity to continue growing our business.” |
This extended agreement solidifies Playtech’s position in key markets, emphasizing its capability to offer innovative gaming solutions. The partnership’s continuation reflects confidence in Playtech’s ability to cater to dynamic customer needs.
💡 About Playtech PLC
Playtech PLC, hailing from the Isle of Man, employs a hefty crew of over 7,300 employees across 19 countries. They offer a wide range of top-quality gambling software, services, plus content, including free pokies, live casino action, sports betting, virtual sports, bingo, and poker.
Playtech is famous for some big-hit games like Age of the Gods and Jackpot Giant. Plus, they’ve created a new innovation – Playtech ONE – an omnichannel platform that combines all titles for a smooth experience.
Playson Partners with High 5 Casino in the US
🚨Big news from #Playson! We’ve partnered with major US social #casino brand, High 5 Casino🎰 Our portfolio of games has been made available for its users🤝
Find out more https://t.co/QLfUT5iIuW#High5Casino #partnership #igaming
18+ Gamble Responsibly https://t.co/8dKgz4VnE8 pic.twitter.com/Gw7Ap1XVmO— Playson (@Playson_Ltd) February 13, 2024
Playson partners with High 5 Casino, a prominent US social casino boasting over 31 million users and over 1,000 titles. This is a key move for Playson’s US expansion. Playson’s games for High 5 Casino include Power Crown: Hold and Win, Jelly Valley, and 3 Pots Riches: Hold and Win. These free titles are integrated via Relax Gaming’s API platform.
| Blanka Homor, Playson’s Sales Director, said, “The partnership with High 5 Casino is a real coup for Playson, continuing our exciting journey within the US social casino industry.” |
| Blanka Homor, Playson’s Sales Director, said, “The partnership with High 5 Casino is a real coup for Playson, continuing our exciting journey within the US social casino industry.” |
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Jerry Wilson, VP at High 5 Casino, remarked, “Playson’s portfolio contains many player-favorites, with an unmatched reputation in producing high-quality Hold and Win slots.” |
This collaboration aids Playson’s goal to enter the US real money market and is part of its global expansion strategy.
💡 About Playson LTD
Playson Limited, headquartered in Malta, employs over 250 people across Ukraine, the UK, Greece, as well as Romania. Playson specialises in online pokies, table games, and roulette. Notable games include Solar Queen, Buffalo Power: Hold and Win, Legend of Cleopatra, and Rise of Egypt. Known for engaging themes, Playson caters to a global audience with diverse experiences.
ICE London 2024 Features Konami Casino Slots
At ICE London 2024, Konami Gaming, Inc. showcased a mix of casino advancements. This included new land-based games, popular online games, as well as systems technology.
The appropriate note appeared on konamigaming.com
The event, held on February 6 – 8, featured Konami’s DIMENSION™ cabinet line with slots like All Aboard, Stuffed Coins, Chili Chili Fire Hot Rush, and Fortune Mint Trinity. Konami’s iGaming library displayed brands like Mayan Chief, Bull Mystery, plus China Shores. The SYNKROS® casino management system was another highlight, known for its marketing toolkit and reliability.
| Eduardo Aching, VP of International Gaming Operations at Konami Gaming Inc, noted, “This year’s ICE London is a compelling time for Konami’s iGaming, casino systems, and omni-channel offerings, especially considering the high levels of interest last year and in the time since.” |  |
The exhibition was successful, drawing the attention of international operators. New features for Chili Chili Fire and Fortune Mint were showcased alongside the DIMENSION slot cabinet line and brand extensions. The All Aboard slot series was presented with expanded setup options.
Konami’s iGaming team shared the latest games available through its Remote Gaming Server (RGS). The SYNKROS casino systems team discussed tools & advancements for business expansion. Aching emphasized a potential for greater partnership and customer ties through SYNKROS’ systems technology.
💡 About Konami Gaming, Inc
Konami Gaming, Inc., established in 1997, is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. A company that specializes in designing and manufacturing casino games & technology for global markets. Konami provides both land-based and online gaming products. Known for popular titles like Fortune Stacks as well as China Shores, Konami’s games feature unique themes and engaging gameplay.
World Casino News: Today’s Overview
It is estimated that there are thousands of online casinos operating worldwide. This number reflects the industry’s dynamic nature and capacity for growth. Find out all you need to know about the latest online gambling news.
ACMA has blocked illegal gambling websites. Who is on the list?
Playzilla, Wazamba, and Zet Casino are included, breaching the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
Source: https://www.acma.gov.au/blocked-gambling-websites
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The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is a government agency regulating broadcasting, the Internet, radio communications, and telecommunications in Australia. ACMA issued a new list of illegal gambling websites for ISP blocking. |
This act is Australian legislation that governs online gambling. It aims to protect Australians from the risks associated with interactive gambling services prohibiting certain online gambling activities.
Since ACMA’s first request in November 2019, 926 illegal gambling and affiliate websites have been blocked. Additionally, 220 illegal services have exited the Australian market due to ACMA’s enforcement against offshore illicit gambling. ACMA’s actions uphold the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. Recent blocking continues ACMA’s efforts to regulate and safeguard online gambling in Australia.
Aristocrat Leisure Limited is searching for a new US-based Non-Executive Director
Aristocrat Leisure Limited announced Ms Jennifer Aument’s resignation as a non-executive director, effective 16 February 2024. Her new CEO role in the U.S. transport sector prompted this decision. Mr. Neil Chatfield, Aristocrat’s Chairman, acknowledged Aument’s significant contributions since April 2023. He expressed understanding of her career move. Aristocrat is now seeking a new U.S.-based non-executive director.
The appropriate announcement appeared on the official Aristocrat Leisure Ltd
Aument’s resignation led to her withdrawal from the election resolution for an upcoming AGM. This change does not affect the 2024 AGM proxy forms’ validity. Details about the successor remain undisclosed. Aristocrat’s selection will align with its strategic goals as well as industry requirements, impacting its governance and strategy.
Second Review of Star’s Sydney Casino May Lead to License Revocation
Photo: James Gourley/AAP
Star’s Sydney Casino is under a second review by NICC due to governance and ethical issues found in a previous investigation by Adam Bell SC in 2022, which included falsified documents and misleading bank communications. Despite these findings, Star’s license remained intact in 2022.
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NICC’s then-chair, Philip Crawford, explained, “Revoking the license would have meant thousands of Star employees would have lost their jobs overnight.” |
An external manager’s term was extended due to Star’s unsatisfactory remediation. By 31 May, this second review will determine Star’s license fate.
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Gambling expert Charles Livingstone questioned NICC’s leniency: “At what point do [the regulators] say, ‘enough is enough, we’re taking this from you’? And at what point does [the Star] lose their social license?” |
Post-announcement of this review, Star’s shares fell by 23%, indicating market concerns. The NSW government’s deal with Star’s Sydney Casino mandates maintaining over 3,000 jobs until 2030 or facing fines.
New Caesars Slot Launch with Lady Luck HQ
Source: press release at newsroom.caesars.com
Rakin’ Bacon Odyssey, Caesars Entertainment’s new slot game, launched cross-platform in New Jersey. Francine Maric, alias Lady Luck HQ, an online gambling influencer, marked this event at Caesars Atlantic City. It’s exclusive to New Jersey, at Caesars Palace Online Casino, Caesars Atlantic City, Tropicana Atlantic City, plus Harrah’s Atlantic City.
Matthew Sunderland, Senior VP and Chief iGaming Officer at Caesars Digital, emphasized the omnichannel experience: “Simultaneous launch of Rakin’ Bacon Odyssey on Caesars Palace Online Casino and at our Atlantic City destinations showcases the exciting omnichannel experience for players.”
Source: Post on Lady Luck HQ’s Instagram account
This game’s success in other areas suggests New Jersey players will enjoy it. Sunderland thanked AGS for the exclusive launch and Lady Luck HQ for her role in the celebration.
Stay Informed: Latest Online Gambling News Today
Big names like Aristocrat Leisure, Tabcorp, and Star Entertainment Group dominate Australia’s gambling scene. In 2020, Aussies dropped nearly 17 billion AUD on stuff like free pokies with no downloading, free spins, and other bonuses. The gambling sector added about 420 million AUD to the economy in 2022.
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In Australia, free pokies are enormous, with 190,349 machines running nationwide. People also love sports betting and lotteries. Online gambling is on the rise, with more players jumping on digital platforms.
ICE London 2024 Exhibition
A photo from the official website of ICE London Exhibition icegaming.com
ICE London 2024, a major iGaming industry event, occurred at ExCeL London from February 6th to 8th. This exhibition, last held in London, served as a networking and education hub for over 45,000 global community members.
Sponsors for ICE London 2024 included VPAG, WA. Technology, Worldpay, Aircash, Allbet. The event aimed to showcase innovations, technological solutions, as well as regulatory updates in gambling. A record 811 exhibitors from 76 nations participated, occupying nearly 60,000 sqm. Notable participants were Novomatic, Playtech, as well as Pragmatic Play, displaying products ranging from slot machines to digital casino solutions.
All insights from the first day of the ICE London Exhibition 2024
ICE London 2024 was significant for the gambling industry, offering a platform for the latest trends and business opportunities. High exhibitor numbers and the presence of industry leaders highlighted its importance in global iGaming.
- Innovative Technologies: ICE London 2024 prominently featured VR, AR, as well as AI technologies. These advancements are transforming gaming experiences, offering players immersive, interactive environments. AI’s use in gaming enhances player engagement, personalization, and responsible gaming measures.
- Novomatic Success: As ICE London 2024’s largest exhibitor, Novomatic showcased a comprehensive product range. This included the latest land-based gaming solutions, advanced AWP gaming machines, and various online tech solutions. Their display emphasized technology integration in traditional free pokies and digital gambling portfolio expansion.
- Digitain’s “YOUR SUCCESS” Theme: Digitain is centered on partner and client success. New products unveiled likely featured the latest software platforms. Football legends Luis Figo and Michel Salgado’s presence at their press conference strategically drew attention to Digitain’s brand.
- Growth Markets Zone: This zone highlighted emerging markets in Latin America and Africa. Around 15 suppliers showcased products/services for these regions. This zone was crucial for companies seeking expansion & new market opportunities.
- Fast Forward Initiative: The initiative provided a platform for start-up gaming companies to showcase their technologies and connect with potential investors, facilitating visibility, funding, and partnerships for innovative gaming solutions.
The next exhibition will take place in Barcelona. Source: @ICE365Global
Global Gambling Industry News for 2024: Financial & Business
Get the latest updates with the latest online gambling news for 2024, focusing on the financial and business industries.
Queensland’s Wagering Surpasses $56 Billion in the Previous Year
“Gambling losses are on the rise in Queensland, with more than $5 billion lost in 2022-23”. Source: ABC News
Queensland’s gambling industry had bets worth $56.4 billion in 2022-23, accounting for 12% of the total money spent on goods and services. The government allocated only 0.6% of its $1.9 billion gambling tax revenue to harm minimization.
Harm minimization programs aim to reduce gambling-related harm among communities. These include awareness campaigns, research as well as support services. However, a Queensland Audit Office report criticized this approach as “inadequate,” citing poor management and low funding.
Gambling taxes and levies rose 43% over five years, but spending on harm minimization barely increased. The report highlighted the struggles of the Department of Justice and Attorney-General in implementing effective strategies due to limited oversight, as well as delayed program implementation.
Queensland’s pokie machines accounted for most gambling losses, totaling $3.2 billion in 2022-23. Regional Queenslanders lost more to pokies than Brisbane residents, with the northern outback and Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsundays regions suffering the hardest hit.
This report also noted an underutilization of gambling help services in areas with the highest problem gambling rates. It warned that the department’s understanding of gambling prevalence and risks was outdated, based on research from 2016-17. The auditor advised enforcing a responsible gambling code of practice and adopting a self-exclusion system for problem gamblers. As other states have done, a system would allow them to ban themselves from all gaming venues.
Queensland Treasurer Cameron Dick stated that the government would consider all these findings and recommendations. Relationships Australia CEO Natasha Rae called for a substantial increase in harm reduction funding, highlighting a critical need for immediate support for those seeking help.
David Tepper, Owner of the Carolina Panthers, Increases Investment in Caesars Entertainment
David Tepper’s fund bought Caesars stock in the fourth quarter. (Image: Mike McCarn/AP)
Through his hedge fund Appaloosa Management, David Tepper, Carolina Panthers owner, upped his stake in Caesars Entertainment. By the end of 2023, Appaloosa held 2.25 million Caesars shares, a rise from 1.53 million at the third quarter’s end. This increase aligns with NFL’s new policy, allowing owners to hold up to 5% in sportsbook operators.
Caesars Entertainment operates land-based casinos and offers sports betting services. Despite the growth of sports betting, the company’s main source of revenue is still its casino operations (see the full year 2023 results). As of the end of 2023, Caesars was the only casino stock in Appaloosa’s equity investments.
Tepper’s investment increase in Caesars is notable, yet controlling 5% of the gaming operator remains unlikely soon. Gaming stocks have long been hedge funds’ favorites, with Caesars often a top choice. Tepper’s Appaloosa Management ranks as Caesars Equity’s eighth-largest hedge fund owner.
Caesars Entertainment also sells $1.5 billion in bonds to manage debt and extend its maturity profile. Tepper’s increased investment in Caesars reflects growing NFL owners’ interest in gaming, especially with the league’s more open stance on sportsbook operations. This move by Tepper and the NFL’s policy change indicates a significant shift in professional sports’ relationship with the gambling industry.
Casino Gaming Industry News: Innovations
Recent online casino gambling news focuses on tech innovations reshaping player experiences. AI integration personalized gaming and boosts customer service. Casinos are optimizing games for mobile play, catering to on-the-go users. Virtual and augmented reality technologies create immersive gaming environments.
Blockchain adoption in casinos enhances transaction security and transparency. Live dealer games, simulating real-life casino ambiance, are increasingly popular. These tech advancements make online gambling more interactive, secure, and accessible, reflecting the industry’s dynamic evolution. Let’s discover the latest casino news in tech innovations.
Flutter Entertainment is seeking Gaming Innovators to cater to a female customer base
Source: press release at official Flutter Entertainment website
Flutter Entertainment’s UKI division, including Sky Betting, Gaming, Paddy Power, as well as Betfair, seeks gaming innovators for its female customer base in the UK and Ireland. This initiative is part of Flutter’s Alpha Hub program, which targets female gamers, recognising their significant market potential.
Flutter is a global leader in online sports betting as well as iGaming, operates diverse brands. Its focus on female customers aims to create digital spaces for relaxation, fun, plus community gaming.
This strategy represents a shift in the casino industry’s dynamics towards inclusivity and diversity. Startups can partner with Flutter, scaling innovative solutions across the UK and Ireland. This initiative’s ‘wildcard option’ encourages ideas for enhancing female gaming experiences.
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Steve Birch, Chief Commercial Officer at Sky Betting & Gaming, states, “We see this as a really exciting gap in the market, and we’re looking forward to finding and partnering with innovative startups through the Alpha Hub program to seize this opportunity.” |
Open until 15th March 2024, a competition offers a winning startup workshop access, networking opportunities, and a demo day showcase.
BetMGM and X Announced an Exclusive Betting Partnership
A logotype of premium online betting and gaming brand, provided by MGM Resorts International
BetMGM is now the exclusive Live Odds Sports Betting partner of X. This partnership integrates BetMGM’s odds and branding into X, giving players access to BetMGM’s website and app.
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BetMGM CEO Adam Greenblatt shared his enthusiasm: “X is the sports world’s conversation center 24/7. Direct access within this forum expands our reach to a passionate, engaged audience.” |
X users in the United States can now explore BetMGM’s latest betting odds on pro football. Major professional/college sports are expected to follow. The odds interface offers easy clickthrough to BetMGM’s app/website for each game, ensuring a seamless user experience.
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X CEO Linda Yaccarino remarked, “Sports never sleep on X. With our strategic partnership with BetMGM, fans are practically in the front row.” |
For more information, follow @BetMGM on X.
Latest Online Casino News Today: Largest Jackpots
In online casino news, the spotlight is on the largest jackpots. These thrilling wins captivate players worldwide, showcasing the immense potential and excitement of casinos.
IGT’s Slots Deliver Million-Dollar-Plus Jackpot
The photo is taken from Asia Gaming Brief — a website with global news in the gambling industry
In January, IGT’s Wheel of Fortune and Powerbucks slots delivered four million-dollar-plus jackpots:
- January 5: A player won $1,149,236 on Wheel of Fortune Diamond Spins Triple Double Stars at Fontainebleau Las Vegas, Nevada.
- January 6: An online player in British Columbia, Canada, won CA$1,000,000 playing Powerbucks Gong Xi Fa Cai.
- January 12: A player at Salon de Jeux de Québec, Canada, won CA$1,277,689 on Powerbucks Gong Xi Fa Cai™ Grand.
- January 26: An online player in Ontario, Canada, won CA$1,097,946 on Powerbucks Arctic Gems.
IGT’s Powerbucks slots have paid over 55 jackpots of $1 million or more since their Canadian debut 2016. Wheel of Fortune slots have created over 1,100 millionaires and awarded over $3.5 billion in jackpots since 1996.
💡 About IGT
International Game Technology PLC (formerly GT) is a London-based technology company offering physical and online casino products. They offer slot machines, video poker, and digital table games for casinos, as well as a variety of online slots and digital table games.
The top slot machine games are Wheel of Fortune, MegaBucks, and Cleopatra due to their fun gameplay and unique themes. MegaBucks is especially famous for its life-changing jackpots. IGT prioritizes safe and fair gambling by implementing responsible gaming practices to ensure player safety. This is why they are considered tech leaders in the casino industry.
Quick Online Casino News Feed: Latest Online Casino Industry News
Stay updated with our quick casino gaming industry news. Get the latest updates and insights in one place.
- Sweden’s gambling revenue dips 1.2% to SEK27.13bn in 2023 — Sweden’s gambling regulator, Spelinspektionen, released preliminary data suggesting a potential decline in the industry. This trend might accelerate in 2024 due to the government’s recently announced stricter ban on credit card gambling.
- Portugal smashed online gambling record in Q4 with €227.4m revenue — Overall, Portugal’s online gambling industry is experiencing a period of significant growth, but it’s crucial to maintain a focus on responsible gambling practices to protect new players as new accounts also increased in Q4.
- US casinos are becoming more “recession resilient” — U.S. casinos defied economic headwinds to hit a record $66.5 billion in revenue last year. Industry expert John DeCree predicts continued growth but warns casinos must navigate rising operational costs. Watch the full interview on Yahoo Finance Live for his insights.