CasinoRankr Newsroom
Casino News & Updates
A concise feed of sweepstakes casino, crypto gambling, mystery box, sportsbook, regulation, and industry updates.
More news
BGC proposes five-point plan to fight UK illegal gambling surge
The Betting and Gaming Council unveiled a five-point action plan on June 8, 2026, targeting advertising, payments, and website hosting to combat the illegal gambling market in the UK. H2 Gambling Capital projects stakes on unlicensed sites could rise from £17 billion in 2025 to £33 billion by 2028. The proposals are intended to strengthen the government's Illegal Gambling Taskforce.
FairGambling Launches Crypto Casino Transparency Platform
FairGambling launched publicly today as a transparency and rewards platform for crypto casino players, combining on-chain analytics, provably fair verification, and independent reviews, according to a company announcement. The platform claims to track more than $45 billion in historical deposit volume and offers up to 30% rakeback across more than 40 operators, figures the company has not had independently verified.
Bally's Intralot targets Evoke and LiveScore Group in UK consolidation push
Bally's Intralot is pursuing a potential acquisition of Evoke plc, owner of William Hill and 888, with an 8 June 2026 deadline to make a firm offer, according to iGB. The company is separately exploring a bid for LiveScore Group. A combined entity would carry an estimated £3.3 billion in debt, according to analyst Ben Robinson of Corfai.
Balkan Gaming Federation elects working group chair, targets black market
The Balkan Gaming Federation has elected Filip Jelevic as working group chair and will register as a trade body in Croatia, advancing a coordinated campaign against black market gambling across seven Balkan nations. The federation has scheduled a roundtable with regional regulators and plans to elect its first president in September 2026.
Trump shares 3 Truth Social posts for unlicensed casino Stake
President Trump shared three Truth Social posts promoting Stake, a sweepstakes casino with no U.S. gaming license, after co-founder Bijan Tehrani donated more than $2.7 million to Trump-aligned political committees, federal campaign finance records show. Stake operates under a Curaçao license and is not regulated by any U.S. state gaming authority. At least 12 states have passed laws banning the dual-currency sweepstakes model Stake employs.
Bragg Gaming Acquires Drayton in Share Deal, Q1 Revenue Flat
Bragg Gaming Group announced May 14, 2026, it will acquire Drayton International for 4.5 million shares, adding more than 100 slot titles and advance deposit wagering technology. Q1 2026 revenue rose 0.6% to $29.7 million, with a known revenue headwind in Q2 as a key Netherlands agreement expires.
UKGC delays Financial Risk Assessment rollout after board review
The UK Gambling Commission delayed a final decision on Financial Risk Assessments after its 21 May 2026 board meeting, saying it has not yet fully assessed the evidence. No new timetable has been set, leaving operators, players, and racing bodies without clarity on one of the most contested reforms from the 2023 white paper.
Netherlands councillor proposes online gambling age 24
Enschede councillor Meryam Sümer has called for raising the Netherlands' online gambling age from 18 to 24, citing local debt data. The proposal is a municipal initiative and would require national legislation to take effect. Similar proposals at the national level have not advanced to a parliamentary vote.
AiGC names Dan Keene permanent CEO, Alberta-Ontario liquidity MOU in the works
Dan Keene has been named permanent CEO of the Alberta iGaming Corporation and confirmed the corporation is negotiating an interprovincial liquidity MOU with Ontario ahead of Alberta's scheduled July 13, 2026 market launch. A centralized self-exclusion platform is also set to go live on that date.
MPs urge UK minister to halt Gambling Commission affordability checks
A cross-party group of 19 MPs has written to Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy urging a pause on Gambling Commission financial risk assessments, warning the checks would harm horseracing and push bettors toward illegal markets. The Gambling Commission says fewer than 3% of active customers would trigger intervention under the pilot. The UKGC board is expected to make a final decision later this month.
New Jersey gambling revenue hits $600.8M in April 2026
New Jersey total gambling revenue reached $600.8 million in April 2026, up 12% year-over-year, according to the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement. All three segments — internet, retail, and sports betting — posted double-digit growth. DraftKings online casino revenue fell 10.6%, while FanDuel grew 11.4%, shifting market share among operators.
Oklahoma overrides Stitt veto to ban sweepstakes casinos under SB 1589
The Oklahoma legislature voted on May 15, 2026 to override Gov. Kevin Stitt's veto of SB 1589, enacting a statewide ban on dual-currency sweepstakes casino games. Operators and their suppliers have until November 1, 2026 to exit the market or face felony charges. Oklahoma becomes the third state to pass such a ban in 2026.
Codere Online CEO defends core market focus after record Q1
Codere Online CEO Aviv Sher says the company's disciplined investment in Spain and Mexico is validated by record Q1 2026 results, with NGR reaching €64.4 million and adjusted EBITDA of €6 million, both described as quarterly records in the company's earnings release. Sher told iGB the company will not chase new geographies, focusing instead on deepening its position in existing markets. The strategy has delivered 13% growth in average monthly players in Spain and a 16% NGR increase there.
AGCO fines Relax Gaming, Arrise Solutions $40K each for unregulated supply
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario fined Relax Gaming Limited and Arrise Solutions Limited $40,000 each for making their games available on unregulated gambling sites accessible to Ontario players. Both companies are AGCO-registered suppliers who cooperated and quickly restricted access. The fines reinforce that registered suppliers face penalties when their content appears on unauthorized platforms.
UK Gambling Commission Creates Head of Illegal Markets Role to Combat Black Market
The UK Gambling Commission is hiring a dedicated Head of Illegal Markets, a new senior position aimed at coordinating enforcement against unlicensed gambling operators. The role, advertised at £65,000, signals a heightened regulatory focus on the black market and will work alongside the UK government's Illegal Gambling Taskforce.
Romania Government Collapse Stalls Gambling Overhaul
Romania's government fell on May 5, 2026, sidelining a planned gambling regulatory overhaul as populist parties gain influence. Local municipalities have already begun using new powers to veto gambling licenses. Political uncertainty leaves operators and players in limbo pending new elections.
SBC Summit Malta 2026 Attendance Hits Record High
SBC Summit Malta 2026, held April 28–30, drew thousands of iGaming professionals and set a new attendance record, according to SBC News. The three-day conference at the InterContinental Malta in St Julian's hosted what organizers described as a highly commercial audience. The growth signals continued investment across the casino sector, with potential downstream effects on bonuses, game selection, and platform development.
Dutch regulator files 4,600+ illegal gambling ad complaints against Meta
The Dutch Gambling Authority (KSA) submitted more than 4,600 reports to Meta in April 2026 over illegal gambling advertisements on Facebook and Instagram. The enforcement action targets unlicensed operators reaching Dutch players through mainstream social media and coincides with growing political support for a total gambling advertising ban in the Netherlands.
Three States Send Sweepstakes Casino Bans to Governors
Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Tennessee each passed bills targeting sweepstakes casinos. Governors have 5-10 days to sign, veto, or let them become law. At least three states have bans pending enactment in 2026.
Prize Draws Eye Regulatory Arbitrage as UK Code Looms
Prize draws in the UK generate £1.3 billion annually from 7.4 million players, but operate outside Remote Gaming Duty and Gambling Commission oversight. A new voluntary DCMS code taking effect 20 May 2026 aims to introduce age verification and self-exclusion. Consolidation and scalability remain key challenges.
Endorphina secures tier II GCGRA vendor license in UAE
Endorphina Limited received a Gaming-Related Vendor Licence (Tier II) from the UAE's General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) on May 8, 2026, becoming one of the first approved slot suppliers in the newly regulated market. The Prague-based developer, whose library spans 80+ titles, marks the license as a defining step in its global regulated-market expansion, one that its compliance head says puts the company among the top providers worldwide by licensed jurisdiction count.
Tennessee HB 1885 Advances, Empowering AG Against Sweepstakes Casinos
A Tennessee bill, HB 1885, has passed a key House committee. The proposal seeks to classify certain sweepstakes casino operations as a violation of the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act, giving the Attorney General new enforcement powers and removing a previous statute of limitations for action.
Maryland Sweepstakes Ban Fails, SGLA Vows Regulation
A proposed Maryland sweepstakes ban, House Bill 295, failed to pass before the 2026 legislative session concluded. The Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA) celebrated the outcome, blocking a prohibition effort while vowing to propose a formal regulatory framework in 2027.
Emanuel's 10% Online Gambling Tax Proposal Stirs Debate
Former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has proposed a 10% federal transaction tax on online gambling and prediction markets. The proposal aims to generate $30 to $50 billion for a U.S. 'Innovation Fund,' sparking discussions among players about the potential impact on odds, bonuses, and the future of online play.
Drake, Adin Ross named in New Jersey federal RICO lawsuit over sweepstakes casino promotion
A new federal lawsuit filed in New Jersey names Stake.us, Drake, Adin Ross, and DJ Akademiks as defendants, alleging illegal gambling and racketeering. The suit claims the platform's social casino model is a 'fig leaf' and that influencer promotions were deceptive, coming after New Jersey banned sweepstakes casinos on August 15, 2025.
Caesars' Ca$hline Slot Expands to PA & WV Online Casinos
Caesars Entertainment has launched its first proprietary game, the Ca$hline slot, in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Developed in-house, the expansion signals a strategic push by major operators to offer exclusive content in regulated US markets.
Rush Street Interactive posts record $370.4M Q1 revenue, raises 2026 guidance
RSI Q1 revenue hit a record $370M (+41%), driven by a 51% user surge. The company raised its 2026 revenue and profitability guidance.
DC Bill Proposes 25% Tax on iGaming, Bans Sweeps
A new bill introduced in Washington D.C. Proposes the legalization of real-money online casinos with a 25% tax rate on revenue. The proposed legislation, sponsored by Councilmember Wendell Felder, also includes an explicit ban on sweepstakes casino models, aiming to formalize the district's iGaming market.
Ghana Becomes Africa's Fourth Largest Online Gambling Market Amid Regulatory Shifts
Ghana's online gambling gross win hit $903.5 million in 2025, up 24% year-over-year. Driven by mobile adoption and regulatory changes like the 2025 tax cut and crypto legalization, the country is poised to overtake smaller markets. However, gaps in the Gaming Act create regulatory risks.
Missouri HB 3533: Casino Entry Fee Could Triple to $5.50
Missouri HB 3533 proposes raising the casino admission fee from $2 to $5.50, applied every two hours, and new sports betting taxes. Opponents say the bill could cost casinos over $500 million. The bill is part of broader debates over income tax cuts.
Game of Thrones Slot Debuts Exclusively at BetMGM Ontario
BetMGM has debuted an exclusive Game of Thrones slot in Ontario under a limited-term agreement with Blueprint Gaming. The branded slot is now available only to BetMGM Ontario players, with a US rollout expected later in summer 2026.
Ontario Player Wins Record $1.86M Jackpot on theScore Casino
An Ontario player won $1.86 million on theScore Casino's exclusive DropZone progressive jackpot with a $1.10 spin, setting a new platform record. The win highlights PENN Entertainment's iGaming growth strategy as it prepares to launch in Alberta on July 13, 2026.
Stake Brings Provably Fair to 1,200 Slots
Stake has introduced Provably Fair technology across 1,200 slots on Stake.us and Stake.com. The system lets players verify game outcomes and probabilities in real time. Co-founder Eddie Craven announced the move on social media, calling traditional RNG a system with no visible inner workings.
RSI CEO on Casino-First Growth, Market Expansion
Rush Street Interactive posted record Q1 2026 revenue of $370.4 million, up 41% year-on-year, driven by its casino-first strategy. CEO Richard Schwartz outlined controlled expansion into Alberta and Latin America while CFO Kyle Sauers downplayed prediction markets as a competitive threat.
Sweet Bonanza 2500: 25,000x Max Win, New Multipliers
Pragmatic Play released Sweet Bonanza 2500, a cluster-pay slot with a 25,000x max win, 96.53% RTP, and new 2,500x multipliers. The title joins the franchise alongside Sweet Bonanza 1000 and introduces special bet features to boost free spin and multiplier chances.
DC iGaming Bill: Online Casinos Legal, Sweepstakes Banned
DC Councilmember Wendell Felder introduced the Internet Gaming and Consumer Protection Act of 2026, which would legalize and regulate online casinos in Washington DC while banning sweepstakes casinos. The bill proposes a 25% tax on adjusted gross revenue, a $2 million application fee, and $500,000 annual renewal per operator.
Louisiana House passes HB 53 expanding racketeering law to gambling offenses
Louisiana's HB 53, which passed both chambers and now awaits the governor's signature, adds gambling offenses to the state racketeering act. Penalties for operating illegal gambling networks, including sweepstakes casinos, could reach 50 years of hard labor and $1 million fines.
Minnesota Senate Passes Sweepstakes Casino Ban Bill
The Minnesota Senate passed SF 4474, a bill banning dual-currency sweepstakes casinos, by a 62-3 vote. A companion bill banning prediction markets, SF 4511, passed 56-10. Both now head to the House ahead of the May 18 deadline. If enacted, the laws would impose criminal penalties and could affect payment processors, geolocation providers, and affiliates serving affected platforms.
Iowa SF 2289 Targets Sweepstakes Casinos, Heads to Governor
Iowa SF 2289, which grants the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission enforcement powers over unlicensed gambling platforms including sweepstakes casinos, passed both chambers unanimously and awaits the governor's signature. If signed, Iowa will move from issuing warnings to pursuing cease-and-desist orders and court injunctions.
Oklahoma Sweepstakes Casino Ban SB 1589 Heads to Governor Stitt
The Oklahoma legislature has passed SB 1589, a bill targeting online sweepstakes and dual-currency casinos, and sent it to Governor Kevin Stitt. If signed, the ban takes effect November 1, 2026, making violations a felony. Tribal gaming entities are exempt.
Caesars Digital Drops Credit Card Deposits, Joining Industry-Wide Shift
Caesars Digital has removed credit card deposits from its U.S. Online gambling platforms, following similar moves by DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and bet365. The decision, driven by a review of payment options and customer habits, aligns with state-level bans in eight states and growing regulatory scrutiny.
Nevada AML Rules Tighten: Source of Funds Under Scrutiny
Nevada Gaming Board member George Assad is pushing for stricter anti-money laundering measures beyond the state's April 2026 regulatory reforms. His proposals include restoring state oversight of financial transactions, whistleblower rewards, and mandatory source-of-funds verification for casino patrons.
Roobet Adds Prediction Markets for Crypto Players
Roobet launched prediction markets on May 6, 2026, allowing existing users to trade on real-world outcomes without new sign-ups. The feature makes Roobet the first major crypto casino to integrate predictions directly into its platform.
PokerStars Ontario Shuts Down for FanDuel Relaunch
PokerStars Ontario closed its platform on May 7, 2026, to transition PokerStars Exclusively on FanDuel in compliance with regulatory requirements. Player accounts remain accessible until June 4, 2026, with remaining funds mailed as checks after that. This change follows a similar US rollout in March 2026, where poker revenue dipped 12% in Pennsylvania post-transition.
LCKY Group Acquires RoyalCasino: Revenue Jump 18-20%
LCKY Group (formerly Glitnor) is acquiring RoyalCasino, a top Danish online casino, in a deal projected to boost revenue by 18-20% and EBITDA by 29-31%. The move strengthens LCKY's foothold in regulated European markets and adds a leading local brand to its portfolio.
Browse the archive by month
35 earlier articlesOlder sweepstakes, crypto, mystery box, sportsbook, and regulation coverage, grouped by the month it was published.
April 2026
- iGaming Ontario to Launch BetGuard Self-Exclusion
- Lawsuit Alleges Modo.us Exploited Player, Causing $425k in Losses
- CJEU Ruling Unlocks Gambling Loss Recovery Lawsuits
- Hard Rock Bet Michigan Pays Out $224K Jackpot on $3.20 Bet
- Advocate Calls for Pause on UK Financial Risk Checks
- Minnesota Sweepstakes Ban Push Moves Ahead
- Modo Casino Lawsuit Claims Disability Exploitation
- CGA Defends Ontario iGaming Market Capture
- AI Fraud Detection: Report Warns Casino KYC Is Obsolete
- US online gaming deposits surge 18.8% in March 2026, retention slips
- FinPay Cuts Off 80+ Crypto Casinos, Citing Risk
- BetMGM Secures Exclusive Elvis Presley Slot Deal
- Trump's Stake Post Ignites Unlicensed Gambling Debate
- PA Skill Games Face Court and Bill Test
- Ontario Launches Safer Gaming PSA for Young Men
- VGW Bets $30K on Tuberville in Alabama Gambling Race
- Maine Tribes Join Defense of iGaming Exclusivity Law
- Gambana Casino Launches VIP Program with KYC caveat Focus
- Paysafe Launches US Crypto Deposits with MoonPay
- MA Social Casino Ban Halted for Corporate-Backed Study
- Oklahoma, Tennessee advance sweepstakes casino restriction bills
- Trainwreck's $781K Slot Jackpot from Bonus Buy Error
- Cirsa Online Revenue Soars 26% in FY2025 Results
- Greece Becomes Europe's Fastest-Growing iGaming Market
March 2026
- Stake.us Illinois Exit: IGB Rules Operations Illegal
- Kangwon Land CEO Void: Will K-HIT Expansion Stall?
- NYC Casino Bidders Top Lobbying Spenders in 2025
- Casino Expansion Shock: IN & VA Plans Derailed by Locals
- How iGaming Aggregators Get You More Games & Better Bonuses
- SA's 40% Bet Tax: Who Really Pays?
- Betsson Acquisition: A €64.5M Canadian Market Entry
- DraftKings Super App Targets $80B Market by 2030
- March Madness: States Crack Down, Markets Rebel
- Virginia iGaming Push Clashes with Sweepstakes Bans
- Mississippi Sports Betting Deadlock: 3rd Year of Failure