

Latest News
Five Startup Finalists Announced For The Second Edition of SBC First Pitch Barcelona
Five innovative industry start-ups have been selected as finalists for the second edition of SBC First Pitch Barcelona at this month’s SBC Summit Barcelona. The finalists will compete for an exclusive prize package valued at over €60,000, to aid in the growth and development of the winning company.
The competition, powered by Yolo Investments, will serve as a platform for the five aspiring companies to present their products and business plans in front of a live audience of industry leaders. The winner will be chosen by a judging panel consisting of venture capital and investment experts.
The First Pitch Competition will be hosted at the Fira de Barcelona Montjuïc, on Wednesday 20th September, and will feature as part of the ‘Future of Technology’ conference track.
Rasmus Sojmark, CEO & Founder of SBC, said: “As event organizers, we believe that SBC First Pitch Barcelona occupies a central role in facilitating innovation in the industry. Competitions like this serve as a platform for emerging talents to showcase their groundbreaking products and services, whilst also gaining invaluable experience presenting in a public space and networking with industry elite.”
“SBC First Pitch is essentially about innovation meeting opportunity, ultimately encouraging the industry to grow, welcome new ways of thinking and foster an environment that nurtures innovation and collaboration.”
The five finalists of the SBC First Pitch Barcelona are:
- We are the Bookie: an online B2C sports betting platform with a 50% monthly Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) rebate for losing customers.
- Rdentify: a platform that identifies vulnerable customers during customer conversations in real-time and flags them to the safer gambling team and triggers customisable interventions as soon as behavioural risk has been flagged
- Snap Screen: Leveraging the user’s mobile camera to recognise live events on TV and streaming, Snap Screen is akin to a ‘Shazam for sports betting,’ allowing operators and affiliates to integrate SnapOdds into their websites.
- SQR Group: simplifies compliance and reduces fraud by enabling seamless identity verification without storing sensitive documents, using Secure QR Code® technology.
- Sport Exchange Market: a web app platform where fans can trade virtual shares of football teams, experiencing the same adrenaline as when they are betting or playing fantasy sports games
The First Pitch competition will be hosted by Anton Kaszubowski, (Managing Director, SBC Advisory Partners) and feature a star-studded judging panel of industry experts. The panel consists of Adam Rosenberg (Senior Advisor, Gaming & Leisure. Blackstone), Evert Einroos (Partner, Yolo Investments), Peter Heneghen (Senior Associate, Bettor Capital), Hilary Stewart-Jones (Independent Consultant, Harris Hagan) and Claudia de la Riva (Angel Investor, Various), who will each cast their vote to determine the winner.
The winning start-up will receive a prize package comprised of:
- A two-day workshop trip to Tallinn with Yolo Investments Founder Tim Heath, including flights, hotel, and covered expenses – valued at €25,000.
- An SBC Media promotional package including a magazine ad in SBC Leaders Magazine, two featured editorials promoting the business and a guest appearance on the iGaming Daily Podcast – valued at €7,000.
- A prize pack from Receptional, in which a dedicated team will collaborate with the winning company to provide a tailored digital marketing package – valued at €10,000.
- A Square in the Air press pack that includes a corporate video filmed on-site at the event, two press releases distributed on the Square in the Air social channels, a free social media audit, competitor analysis and a strategy guide to help build the company’s profile – valued at £5,000.
- An exclusive brand or web design package from Vegas Kings, the leading iGaming design and development agency – valued at €2,500.
- A 3x3m booth, including a turnkey standbuild, sponsorship mention, and 4 complimentary tickets for the SBC Summit 2024 – Valued at €15,000.
Last year’s edition of SBC First Pitch Barcelona saw Kero Gaming, an in-game micro-betting and interactive social platform, crowned the winner. Paradox, a parimutuel betting protocol where all the commission charged is distributed proportionally to the people who bet before you, was the runner-up.
California
California Gambling Control Commission Reviews Licensing and Suitability Applications in April 2025 Meeting
The California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) convened its latest public meeting to deliberate on a broad range of licensing, regulatory, and suitability matters concerning individuals and entities engaged in California’s gambling and tribal gaming industries. The comprehensive session covered over a dozen agenda items and featured detailed reviews of employee licenses, work permits, third-party proposition services, tribal gaming suitability, and supplier renewals.
Key Highlights from the April 2025 Commission Meeting:
1. Initial and Temporary Key Employee Licenses
The Commission evaluated the initial applications of Louis Garcia and Bounlek Syvilay, with differing staff recommendations. Garcia’s case was recommended for referral to an evidentiary hearing due to concerns related to illegal gambling. Syvilay, on the other hand, received a conditional approval pending regular updates on delinquent tax obligations.
2. Work Permit Renewal Denials
The renewal work permit for Charlene Gonzales was recommended for denial by Commission staff.
3. Third-Party Proposition Player Services Licenses
Applications from entities like KBCH Consultants, Inc. and Players Edge Services were reviewed. Jared Francis (KBCH) received a conditional recommendation, requiring proof of debt resolution, while Jarrel Guieb (Players Edge) was recommended for straightforward approval.
4. Gaming Resource Supplier Suitability Findings
Several major suppliers received approval for either initial or renewal findings of suitability under California’s tribal-state compacts, including:
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Aristocrat Technologies, Inc.
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Giesecke+Devrient Currency Technology America, Inc.
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HCAL, LLC (Caesars Entertainment)
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IGT (International Game Technology)
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Interblock USA, L.C.
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Surveillance Systems Integration, Inc.
These approvals, spanning expiration dates through 2027, reflect ongoing compliance and operational integrity.
5. Key Employee Suitability Findings for Tribal Casinos
Dozens of applicants across tribal gaming properties received either initial or renewal findings of suitability. Highlights include approvals for employees at:
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Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
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Jamul Casino
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Tachi Palace Hotel and Casino
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Agua Caliente Casinos (multiple locations)
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Sycuan Casino and Resort
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Graton Resort & Casino
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Thunder Valley Casino Resort
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Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel
These decisions reflect the Commission’s continued oversight of individuals holding influential roles in tribal casino operations throughout California.
6. Third-Party Employee Licensing – Extensive Review
The Commission reviewed an extensive list of initial and renewal applications for third-party proposition player services employees across several operators including:
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Blackstone Gaming, LLC
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Knighted Ventures, LLC
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Progressive Gaming, LLC
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F2 TPS, LLC
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L.E. Gaming, Inc.
Hundreds of individual applications were evaluated, with most receiving recommended approvals through 2027.
7. Commission Work Permits and Renewals
Work permit renewals for cardroom employees at venues such as Casino Merced, Empire Sportsmen’s Association, and Napa Valley Casino were also considered and approved.
8. Tribal-State Compact Supplier and Key Employee Hearings
Default decisions were discussed for applicants who did not respond or attend scheduled hearings. These included applicants for tribal-state compact key employee findings and third-party proposition player licenses. No staff recommendations were issued for these hearings.
9. Authorized Table Requests
Stars Casino submitted a request regarding the number of authorized tables. The staff recommended that the Commission take no action at this time.
10. Consent Calendar Approvals
The Commission recommended approval of multiple consent calendar items, with exceptions noted for select applicants.
The post California Gambling Control Commission Reviews Licensing and Suitability Applications in April 2025 Meeting appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Latest News
MetaBet and Catena Media Reignite Partnership to Power the Next Wave of Betting Engagement

MetaBet, the leading provider of real-time sports betting tools and interactive engagement technology, is proud to announce the renewal of its partnership with Catena Media, a global leader in performance marketing within online sports betting and casino gaming.
MetaBet and Catena Media first began working together in 2020, back when just six U.S. states offered legalized online sports betting. Since then, the partnership has gone from strength to strength with a focus on creating dynamic, real-time engagement products that drive deeper connections with sports fans. As both companies continue to prioritize fan engagement and smarter betting experiences, this renewal signals a bold new phase of collaboration.
“As Catena Media celebrates five years of renewed partnership with MetaBet, we’re excited to embark on the next chapter of our collaboration,” said Pierre Cadena, COO at Catena Media. “Together, we’ve consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, developing a dynamic partnership that captivates sports fans at the most thrilling moments of the game. Looking ahead to 2025, we’re excited to work together on new automated sport-related engagement, which will strengthen the connection between fans and the betting experience. We’re eager to continue to build on this partnership and can’t wait to see what’s next.”
The renewed agreement will see Catena Media continue to integrate MetaBet’s customizable widgets and real-time APIs across its digital properties, driving greater user engagement, retention, and monetization opportunities. In the months ahead, the two companies will collaborate on advanced automation features and content personalization—making it easier than ever for fans to find, follow, and wager on the most exciting moments in sports.
“Catena Media has long been one of our most impactful and collaborative partners, so we’re thrilled to start this new era,” said Mark Phillip, Founder and CEO of MetaBet. “This renewed partnership further cements MetaBet as the leading provider of engagement tools that help performance marketers monetize their sports touchpoints and drive more conversions.”
The post MetaBet and Catena Media Reignite Partnership to Power the Next Wave of Betting Engagement appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Latest News
The Genie Returns in 1001 Mystery Genie Fortunes from Play’n GO

A powerful new slot sees Play’n GO revisit the world of Alador, Yasmine, and their enigmatic ally in 1001 Mystery Genie Fortunes. But peace in the Kingdom doesn’t mean all is as it seems…
After overthrowing the villainous Zafar, the realm enjoys tranquillity under the rule of Sultan Alador. However, the Genie who helped secure victory has vanished into the Oasis – and whispers tell of a chest brimming with unpredictable power. This 5-reel, 20-line slot invites players to explore what secrets lie within.
This game intertwines layered gameplay with narrative twists. Mystery Symbols can reveal Magic Lamps that call forth the Genie herself, transforming into Expanding Wilds that trigger re-spins. Re-spin streaks can ramp up to 30 in a single session, with multiplier wilds climbing to x5. Free Spins bring more magic with Bonus Locks and Key mechanics that offer dynamic Instant Prizes, while the elusive Mystery Chest can surprise at any moment with payouts up to x1001 the total bet.
1001 Mystery Genie Fortunes continues Play’n GO’s affinity for richly developed universes, previously explored in titles like Ghost of Dead and Scroll of Seth as well as the previous title Mystery Genie Fortunes of the Lamp. With its vibrant visuals, smart feature integration, and evolving multiplier mechanics, this slot builds on the brand’s strengths while casting a new spell over players.
George Olekszy, Head of Game Retention, said: “The Genie is back – and he’s hiding more than just tricks up her sleeve. With Mystery Symbols, expanding multipliers and streak re-spins, this is one of our most dynamic titles yet.”
1001 Mystery Genie Fortunes offers an intriguing mix of storytelling and gameplay mechanics that make every session feel fresh and full of potential.
The post The Genie Returns in 1001 Mystery Genie Fortunes from Play’n GO appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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