This iGaming News episode covers major industry updates including Playtech's sale of HappyBet, US gaming reaching a $72 billion record, Vietnam’s casino project plans, new European online gambling regulations, Flutter’s Brazil acquisition, and DraftKings’ Q1 revenue growth.
Playtech Sells German Brand Happy
Playtech has sold its German sports betting brand, HappyBet, to NetX Betting, a subsidiary of Pferdewetten AG. HappyBet shops will transition into the Sportwetten.de brand, with approximately 600 betting terminals changing hands. Pferdewetten expects to integrate several dozen locations into its network over the coming months.
U.S. Gaming Revenue Hits Record $72 Billion
The U.S. gaming industry achieved a record-breaking revenue of $72 billion last year, marking four consecutive years of growth. Commercial casinos brought in nearly $50 billion, while sports betting grew by 25%, reaching approximately $14 billion. Online gaming revenue surged by almost 29%, hitting over $8 billion. Despite these positive results, industry executives remain cautious due to economic challenges impacting profits and wages.
Vietnam Considers Major Casino Project
Vietnam's government is reviewing a proposal for a large-scale casino project in Quang Ninh province, valued at around $2.16 billion. If approved, the "Van Don" project will become a luxury resort and entertainment complex. A trial program might allow Vietnamese citizens to gamble, pending government approval. The project would generate significant tax revenue over its proposed 70-year lifespan.
Dutch Lottery and Holland Casino Remain State-Owned
The Dutch government has announced it will not privatize the Nederlandse Loterij or Holland Casino. Authorities concluded privatization is currently neither practical nor beneficial, so both entities will remain under government control.
UK Gambling Participation Hits Record Low, Online Grows
UK gambling participation has fallen to its lowest level since records began, with only 46% of adults reporting gambling in the past month. However, online gambling continues to rise, particularly among younger demographics. Men and younger adults aged 18-24 show the highest online gambling engagement, with entertainment being a key motivator.
New European Regulations for Online Gambling
Europe has introduced new regulatory measures for online gambling operators. Starting June 28, 2025, the European Accessibility Act requires digital services to be user-friendly for people with disabilities. The Digital Services Act mandates clear advertising practices, while the Artificial Intelligence Act requires operators to disclose AI usage in fraud detection and player behavior analysis. These rules affect any operator targeting European markets.
Blackstone to Sell Clarion Events for £2 Billion
Investment giant Blackstone plans to sell global events organizer Clarion Events, valued at approximately £2 billion. Clarion, known for major international events across gaming and other industries, has recovered strongly post-pandemic, seeing revenues climb significantly. Interest from major investment firms remains strong, though the deal is not yet finalized.
Nepal Tightens Casino Regulations
Nepal is introducing stricter casino regulations under its new Integrated Tourism Bill. Foreign ownership in casinos will be reduced from 90% to 49%. Casinos must also be at least five kilometers from international borders and religious sites. Hotels hosting casinos must own at least a 10% stake. Operators have one year to adjust to these new rules.
Caesars Supports Gambling Addiction Research
Caesars Entertainment, through its Caesars Foundation, has donated $200,000 to the International Center for Responsible Gaming. The funds will support research on gambling addiction, mental health, and responsible gaming practices, highlighting the company's ongoing commitment to responsible gaming.
Flutter Completes $350M Stake in Brazil’s NSX Group
Flutter Entertainment has finalized a $350 million deal acquiring a majority stake in Brazil's NSX Group. This move strategically expands Flutter's presence in the Brazilian iGaming market. Flutter anticipates significant revenue growth from this investment, despite expecting initial financial losses as the market stabilizes.
DraftKings Reports Strong Q1 Revenue
DraftKings reported a 20% increase in revenue for the first quarter, hitting $1.4 billion. The increase follows the acquisition of lottery app Jackpocket. Although DraftKings slightly lowered its revenue guidance for the full year, the company remains positive about future growth, particularly in the sports betting and prediction market segments.
Japan Eyes Two Additional Casinos by 2027
Japan plans to approve two new casinos by December 2027, adding to the existing MGM Osaka project. Regions like Hokkaido and Tokyo have shown interest in applying. Public feedback will be gathered later this year, and final plans are expected by 2026. MGM Osaka, currently the only approved casino project, is slated to open in 2030.
