

Latest News
HSBC UK increases gambling block feature to 3 days
With lockdown causing an increase in gambling, HSBC UK and first direct have today announced an increased cooling off period to their gambling block feature, from 24 hours to 72 hours.
The self-restriction tool, which prevents customers from being able to make gambling payments on their accounts after it’s switched on, will automatically decline any gambling transactions for three days, to help people control their urge to gamble.
Recently published data from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) highlights that lockdown measures have had an impact on gambling behavior in the UK, with a month-on-month increase of 29% in gross gambling yield (GGY), and a 7% increase in active accounts.
Maxine Pritchard, Head of Financial Inclusion and Vulnerability at HSBC UK said: “This is a challenging time for many of our customers, with some not working and perhaps facing financial difficulty. By increasing the restriction to 72 hours, this will help give our customers time to pause when they are tempted to return to gambling.
“We are always looking for new ways to support our customers and make it easier for them to manage their finances. Customer feedback on our gambling control showed us there was more we could do to help and we’ve worked closely with them and with GamCare to design the solution.”
Available to HSBC UK and first direct customers with an active debit card, the option can be switched on via the ‘Manage Cards’ section on the HSBC UK mobile app (within the ‘Cards’ section of the fd mobile app), as well as via telephone banking or by going into a branch – giving customers added control over their spending.
Anna Hemmings, CEO of GamCare, says: “The ability to block gambling transactions through your bank card or app is an important tool for those struggling with their gambling, and is ideally used together with other practical tools such as self-exclusion, blocking software, and specialist support around the issue – as we have recently emphasised through our ‘TalkBanStop’ partnership and campaign.
“The University of Bristol Personal Finance Research Centre has also highlighted that ‘positive friction’ such as a cooling off period is important for the success of blocks, as this prevents them being turned off in the event of urges to gamble. GamCare is pleased to see HSBC UK and first direct take this positive step to support their customers.”
HSBC UK and first direct both have their own specialist support teams on hand to help vulnerable customers including those at risk of financial harm from gambling and can refer customers to a trusted external organisations where needed.
Ivan Montik Founder of SOFTSWISS
SOFTSWISS and Rubens Barrichello Extend Strategic Collaboration in Latin America

SOFTSWISS, a global technology company and leader in iGaming software solutions, announces the extension of its strategic collaboration with legendary Formula One driver Rubens Barrichello, who will continue in his role as Non-Executive Director in Latin America.
This renewed agreement builds on a successful first year of collaboration, which has become a cornerstone of SOFTSWISS’ positioning across Latin America and beyond based on shared values of partnership and cultural connection.
Since April 2024, Barrichello has served as an authentic voice for SOFTSWISS at key industry and business events, both across Latin America and internationally. His role has gone far beyond traditional brand endorsement, encompassing leadership visibility, market engagement, and relationship-building with clients and communities.
Over the past year, Barrichello has played a pivotal role in reinforcing SOFTSWISS’ growth, hosting high-level partner engagements that combine cultural relevance with exclusive experiences. His voice was also central to the company’s response to the devastating floods in Rio Grande do Sul. Through the Help Brazil initiative, Barrichello assisted in amplifying calls for support and raising awareness around the urgent need for action. What began as an emergency relief effort evolved into a commitment to clean water access – a deeply personal initiative for him and SOFTSWISS, grounded in empathy and solidarity with affected communities.
In addition, Barrichello participated as a speaker at the SOFTSWISS Excellence Talks series, where he shared his unique expertise with the company’s global team.
“Rubens brings an unmatched level of authenticity, integrity, and passion to everything he does,” says Ivan Montik, Founder of SOFTSWISS. “Over time, he has become a true friend. His presence within our team has helped us connect with Latin American partners, clients, and audiences on a deeper level – not only as a brand but as a long-term, responsible partner in the region.”
“I’m proud to continue this journey with SOFTSWISS,” says Rubens Barrichello. “Our first year together has shown how shared values can translate into meaningful impact – for business, regional markets and local communities. I look forward to helping take this partnership even further.”
As part of the renewed collaboration, Barrichello will continue supporting SOFTSWISS in strategic market growth, high-level representation, and cultural localization. His most recent appearance was a keynote speech during the opening day of SiGMA Americas 2025 in São Paulo – one of the most important iGaming events in the region.
About SOFTSWISS
SOFTSWISS is an international technology company with over 15 years of experience developing innovative solutions for the iGaming industry. SOFTSWISS holds a number of gaming licences and provides comprehensive software for managing iGaming projects. The company’s product portfolio includes the Online Casino Platform, the Game Aggregator with over 27,800 casino games, the Affilka Affiliate Platform, the Sportsbook Software and the Jackpot Aggregator. The expert team counts over 2,000 employees.
The post SOFTSWISS and Rubens Barrichello Extend Strategic Collaboration in Latin America appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Cinco de Mayo party
Plaza Hotel & Casino to host downtown’s largest Cinco de Mayo party

The Plaza Hotel & Casino will again host downtown Las Vegas’ biggest party to celebrate Cinco de Mayo starting at 4 p.m. on Monday, May 5, in and around its iconic Carousel Bar.
The Plaza’s Cinco de Mayo party is free to attend and will feature a variety of entertainment, including a Mariachi band, Folklorico dancers, and a DJ spinning top radio hits with a mix of Latin music, all under the bright lights of the property’s iconic Main Street dome. The high-energy fiesta will also feature downtown’s largest piñata.
Guests will be able to commemorate their fun by taking selfies inside the Plaza’s photo house that will include various festive props.
Fresh churros will be available for purchase from Churros 101 as well as street tacos and Mexican street corn salad (Esquites) from Fresh Mexican Grill.
Carousel Bar will offer drink specials all night long: Dos Equis on draft (a pint for $11 or 32 oz. for $14), the Kickin’ Caballo (Teremana Tequila, lime, chili agave, and ginger beer for $16), and a beer and shot feature with Dos Equis and Teremana Blanco Tequilla for $16.
Next to Carousel Bar, Pinkbox Doughnuts will feature fun and delicious Cinco de Mayo-themed doughnuts.
The post Plaza Hotel & Casino to host downtown’s largest Cinco de Mayo party appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Latest News
SCCG Becomes Sponsor of SFT Combat

SCCG Management has become the sponsor of SFT Combat, one of Brazil’s premier MMA promotions. As a long-time client partner, SFT Combat continues to push boundaries in the world of professional fighting, delivering high-quality events that captivate both local and global audiences. The sponsorship reflects a strategic investment in Brazil’s sports and gaming ecosystem, where MMA plays a central role in both cultural identity and entertainment value.
“At SCCG, we recognize the cultural and commercial significance of MMA in Brazil—a country with a deep-rooted history in combat sports and a passionate community of fans, athletes, and operators. Our support of events like this goes beyond sponsorship; it reflects our commitment to fueling the growth of sports and gaming ecosystems across LATAM. By helping bridge new sports concepts with established combat platforms, we continue to create strategic opportunities for innovation,” the Company said.
The post SCCG Becomes Sponsor of SFT Combat appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
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