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PAGCOR Net Income Down 87% in 2021

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The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation’s (PAGCOR) net income down nearly 87% to $3.9 million in 2021 as lockdowns continued to restrict casino operations.

The Philippines casino industry was severely hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, with lockdowns and preventive measures still in place during the last year. In comparison, PAGCOR posted $30.3 million in 2020.

The corporation’s total income net of gaming of taxes and contributions settled at $359.3 million last year, down by 9.4% from $396.7 million in 2020. Moreover, expenses, which include contributions to the national government, reached 349.7 million, down 4.48% from 2020.

PAGCOR Chairman Andrea Domingo said that the significant drop in net income was attributable to the Covid-19 pandemic, and the absence of non-gaming revenues. Moreover, the closure of some Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (Pogos) also contributed to the income decline.

“The Pogos missed their target by almost 20% for lack of manpower, a good number closed down and [were impacted by] the slowing down of the world economy,” Domingo said.

It is estimated that about 32 out of the former 60 Pogos in the Philippines have left the country, most of them having already transferred to other jurisdictions.

The Chairman further revealed that, due to the drop in revenues, there will be fewer funds to contribute to government programmes, including Universal Health Care. In comparison, 2020 proved to be a better year for the state-run corporation as PAGCOR was able to accumulate savings from the first three months of the year, in which casinos were in full operation.

Along with results for full-year 2021, the gaming regulator also reported income from gaming operations for Q4 2021. For the three months to 31 December 2021, PAGCOR reported an income of $638.9 million, up 8.8% from the same period the prior year, and up 46.5% from the prior quarter.

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GK8 Announces Football Legend Michael Owen as its New Brand Ambassador

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GK8, Asia’s leading platform for interactive gaming and entertainment, has announced football legend Michael Owen as its new brand ambassador. With a reputation built on trust, security and a diverse range of gaming options, GK8 continues to expand its influence in the iGaming sector, and Owen’s partnership is set to bolster its position in the competitive industry.

Michael Owen, a former English football star known for his exceptional skills and quick pace on the field, brings his star power to the fast-growing brand. With years of success both on and off the pitch, Owen’s influence will help enhance GK8’s visibility across key international markets. The partnership marks a pivotal moment for the company, reflecting its ambition to continue expanding globally while maintaining its commitment to a high standard of user experience.

“It’s an honor to be working with such a dynamic and forward-thinking brand like GK8. Their dedication to creating a secure, engaging platform aligns perfectly with my values. I look forward to connecting with fans and players in Southeast Asia, sharing in the excitement and entertainment that GK8 offers,” said Michael Owen.

Founded with a vision to bring top-tier gaming experiences to Asia, GK8 has rapidly grown into a major force in the interactive gaming industry. The platform is recognised for its advanced security measures, seamless user interface and wide selection of games, including sports, lotteries and multiplayer online options. GK8’s unique approach to customer service has helped them build a loyal global community, with users praising its responsive support team and fast transactions.

The post GK8 Announces Football Legend Michael Owen as its New Brand Ambassador appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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JBO Thailand Launches Esports World Cup Promotion

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JBO, a well-established online gaming and entertainment platform, has announced an exciting new promotion tailored for the highly anticipated Esports World Cup 2025. Esports enthusiasts in Thailand now have a compelling opportunity to win up to 30,000 Jcoin by placing wagers on the thrilling “World Cup Qualifiers” matches. This shows JBO Thailand’s commitment to giving great value and fun experiences to all its players.

This exclusive event is ongoing and will conclude on August 24, 2025, at 23:59 (GMT+8). This period strategically aligns with the intensified global esports calendar, leading up to the Esports World Cup and its critical qualifying rounds. JBO Thailand is actively creating an immersive environment that allows fans to engage more deeply with preferred teams and competitive events. Participation in the promotion is straightforward. Players are simply required to place bets on eligible “Esports World Cup Qualifiers” matches through JBO’s designated esports betting providers, IM Esports and TF Esports. The promotion is conveniently accessible via the “Reward Corner” section on the JBO platform, ensuring a seamless and intuitive user experience for all participants.

At the core of this attractive offer is JBO’s innovative Jcoin reward system. Players who log in to JBO and achieve a weekly turnover exceeding 3000 in the Esports category will automatically qualify for Jcoin rewards. The reward system gives bigger prizes as you play more, with up to 30,000 Jcoin available each week.

JBO also ensures a smooth and secure experience through the easy-to-use JBO app available for both Android and iOS devices. With fast withdrawals and smooth gameplay, the platform is ideal for esports fans to enjoy and earn real rewards. JBO is trusted across Asia and has Dimitar Berbatov as its brand ambassador, showing it as a top sportsbook and esports operator.

The post JBO Thailand Launches Esports World Cup Promotion appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Uzbekistan Introduces Penalties for Illegal Gambling Operations

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Uzbekistan has introduced strict penalties for illegal gambling operations as the country prepares to launch its regulated betting market on October 9, 2025.

The new penalties target both domestic and foreign operators offering gambling services without a license. The new rules authorise fines indexed to the Uzbek Base Calculation Unit (BRV), a fiscal benchmark used for administrative penalties.

Foreign firms face fines of up to 25,000 Base Calculation Units, around US$882,000. Authorities can also seize illegal earnings, block access to banking and internet services, and ban repeat offenders from the Uzbek financial system. Unauthorised physical casinos, betting shops and mobile terminals will face the same sanctions.

Violations of anti-money laundering rules or personal data misuse carry fines of 15,000 BRV (about US$529,200), and unlicensed deposit-taking could result in penalties of up to US$352,900.

The changes were drafted by the National Agency for Perspective Projects (NAPP), which is overseeing the rollout of Uzbekistan’s new gambling law. NAPP will act as the interim regulator until a permanent authority is established.

Licensed operators must meet strict financial requirements. Online gambling firms need authorised capital of $4.57 million and a $2.05 million reserve fund. Lottery providers must show at least $1.64 million in capital and $1.11 million in reserves.

“This is not a pay-to-play regime. It’s a compliance-first market that will reward transparency and capital discipline,” NAPP has clarified in communications with potential applicants.

Gambling has been banned in Uzbekistan since 2007, except for limited state-run lotteries. The new system marks a shift from prohibition to strict regulation. A centralised system, the Unified State Register of Bets and Players (USRBP), will track all wagers and enforce ID checks and monthly betting limits.

Sanctions will be issued by NAPP’s director after internal review. Offending companies will have 15 days to appeal through NAPP or the courts. Half of all fines will go to the state budget; the rest will fund regulatory operations. Paying fines does not shield companies from further legal action.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev approved the new framework in 2024, requiring that gambling revenue be used to fund national sports programmes. Licensing guidelines will be released soon, with applications opening before the October launch.

The post Uzbekistan Introduces Penalties for Illegal Gambling Operations appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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