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  31. <title>Debate around the California tribal &#8216;YES Pledge&#8217; continues</title>
  32. <link>https://readwrite.com/debate-around-the-california-tribal-yes-pledge-continues/</link>
  34. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rachael Davies]]></dc:creator>
  35. <pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2025 15:25:29 +0000</pubDate>
  36. <category><![CDATA[Gambling]]></category>
  37. <category><![CDATA[California]]></category>
  38. <category><![CDATA[tribes]]></category>
  39. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541879</guid>
  40.  
  41. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Commercial-gambling-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Commercial gambling. Debate around the California tribal &#039;YES Pledge&#039; continues" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Commercial-gambling-300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Commercial-gambling-900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Commercial-gambling-240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Commercial-gambling.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  42. <p>California tribal leaders continue to debate the &#8216;YES Pledge&#8217; as it fails to gain widespread support. According to InGame, a&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/debate-around-the-california-tribal-yes-pledge-continues/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">Debate around the California tribal &#8216;YES Pledge&#8217; continues</span></a></p>
  43. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/debate-around-the-california-tribal-yes-pledge-continues/">Debate around the California tribal &#8216;YES Pledge&#8217; continues</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  44. ]]></description>
  45. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Commercial-gambling-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Commercial gambling. Debate around the California tribal &#039;YES Pledge&#039; continues" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Commercial-gambling-300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Commercial-gambling-900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Commercial-gambling-240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Commercial-gambling.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>California tribal leaders continue to debate the &#8216;YES Pledge&#8217; as it fails to gain widespread support.</p>
  46. <p>According to <a href="https://www.ingame.com/san-manuel-letter-rejects-commercial-wagering-model/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">InGame</a>, a letter from the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation was sent to various California tribal leaders at an unknown date, seeming to criticize the &#8216;YES Pledge&#8217; for expanding gambling under the authority of Sports Betting Alliance (SBA) Tribal Advisory Council members.</p>
  47. <p>The correspondence argues that “the future of tribal government gaming in California is at risk” and claims that the proposed commercial gambling expansion “will provide large profits for them, while undermining the fabric of Indian Gaming in California.”</p>
  48. <p>Opinions are split on the issue, as Jeff Grubbe, the current SBA tribal advisor and former Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians chair, responded to the letter publicly on LinkedIn at the end of September. He claimed that it relies on “opinions, assumptions, and speculative outcomes – not verifiable facts.”</p>
  49. <h2><span id="what_is_the_yes_pledge-2">What is the YES Pledge?</span></h2>
  50. <p>Dividing those in the community, the YES Pledge first began circulating in September. It aims to encourage tribes to “commit to working together to secure voter or legislative approval of a tribally governed framework for online sports betting.”</p>
  51. <p>However, it has failed to gain the support of the biggest tribal association in the state, the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA), of which San Manuel is a member. Betting giants including Bet365, BetMGM, DraftKings, Fanatics Sportsbook, and FanDuel are all members of the SBA.</p>
  52. <p>This issue is one of many at stake for tribes in California, as the news came earlier this week that California tribes have been <a href="https://readwrite.com/california-tribes-blocked-suing-cardrooms-state-rights/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">blocked from suing cardrooms over exclusive gambling rights</a>. The YES Pledge is also part of the bigger picture around <a href="https://readwrite.com/california-tribes-launch-sports-betting-lawsuit-against-kalshi-and-robinhood/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the competition for controlling sports betting across the state</a>, which some tribes argue also encroaches on their exclusivity, as determined by the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) and compacts.</p>
  53. <p><em><strong>Featured image: Unsplash</strong></em></p>
  54. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/debate-around-the-california-tribal-yes-pledge-continues/">Debate around the California tribal &#8216;YES Pledge&#8217; continues</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  55. ]]></content:encoded>
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  60. <item>
  61. <title>PrizePicks teams up with famous faces to promote The Feed</title>
  62. <link>https://readwrite.com/prizepicks-teams-sam-richardson-druski-up-promote-the-feed/</link>
  64. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rachael Davies]]></dc:creator>
  65. <pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2025 14:25:53 +0000</pubDate>
  66. <category><![CDATA[Gambling]]></category>
  67. <category><![CDATA[prizepicks]]></category>
  68. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541820</guid>
  69.  
  70. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/PrizePicks-partners-with-Sam-Richardson-and-Drew-22Druski22-Desbordes-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="PrizePicks partners with Sam Richardson and Drew Druski Desbordes" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/PrizePicks-partners-with-Sam-Richardson-and-Drew-22Druski22-Desbordes-300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/PrizePicks-partners-with-Sam-Richardson-and-Drew-22Druski22-Desbordes-900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/PrizePicks-partners-with-Sam-Richardson-and-Drew-22Druski22-Desbordes-240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/PrizePicks-partners-with-Sam-Richardson-and-Drew-22Druski22-Desbordes.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  71. <p>Fantasy sports app PrizePicks has teamed up with some famous faces for a new series promoting The Feed. PrizePicks is kicking&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/prizepicks-teams-sam-richardson-druski-up-promote-the-feed/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">PrizePicks teams up with famous faces to promote The Feed</span></a></p>
  72. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/prizepicks-teams-sam-richardson-druski-up-promote-the-feed/">PrizePicks teams up with famous faces to promote The Feed</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  73. ]]></description>
  74. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/PrizePicks-partners-with-Sam-Richardson-and-Drew-22Druski22-Desbordes-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="PrizePicks partners with Sam Richardson and Drew Druski Desbordes" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/PrizePicks-partners-with-Sam-Richardson-and-Drew-22Druski22-Desbordes-300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/PrizePicks-partners-with-Sam-Richardson-and-Drew-22Druski22-Desbordes-900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/PrizePicks-partners-with-Sam-Richardson-and-Drew-22Druski22-Desbordes-240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/PrizePicks-partners-with-Sam-Richardson-and-Drew-22Druski22-Desbordes.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>Fantasy sports app PrizePicks has teamed up with some <a href="https://readwrite.com/prizepicks-druski-ex-football-legends-new-promotional-campaign/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">famous faces</a> for a new series promoting <a href="https://readwrite.com/prizepicks-launches-the-feed-fantasy-sports-app/">The Feed</a>.</p>
  75. <p>PrizePicks is kicking off basketball season with a series starring Hall of Famers Allen Iverson and Candace Parker, and comedic actors Sam Richardson and Drew &#8220;Druski&#8221; Desbordes. The blend of sporting and comedic talent is designed to promote The Feed and its new social features that allow players to see and interact with picks their friends and the community are making in real time.</p>
  76. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">
  77. <p lang="en" dir="ltr">PrizePicks, the daily fantasy sports site, is launching a new slate of features for [&#8230;]
  78. <p>The post PrizePicks launches ‘The Feed’ to bolster fantasy sports app appeared first on ReadWrite.<a href="https://t.co/lxlrKa8BLV">https://t.co/lxlrKa8BLV</a></p>
  79. <p>&mdash; ReadWrite (@RWW) <a href="https://twitter.com/RWW/status/1978413081257480574?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
  80. <p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
  81. <p>“We are thrilled to team up with basketball and cultural icons to showcase our new social features, making it simpler than ever to get in on the action with PrizePicks,” said Mike Quigley, Chief Marketing Officer at PrizePicks, in a <a href="https://www.prizepicks.com/press-news/prizepicks-pairs-basketball-legends-with-comedy-stars-in-social-driven-brand-campaign" target="_blank" rel="noopener">press release</a>. “These humorous spots show off that ‘It’s Good to be Right,’ even if that means leaning on the knowledge of your friends.”</p>
  82. <h2><span id="where_to_see_prizepicks_spots-2">Where to see PrizePicks&#8217; spots</span></h2>
  83. <p>Iverson and Richardson try out The PrizePicks Feed in the ad, with Richardson borrowing AI’s basketball expertise by copying his lineup with one click. The ad escalates as Richardson attempts to copy everything Iverson does, including his famous swagger.</p>
  84. <p>&#8220;I have always shared my game with the fans…the crossover, the swagger, the headband,” Iverson said. “This campaign lets me bring that same vibe. It’s about hoops, culture, and me having fun with the fans.”</p>
  85. <p>There&#8217;s another ad spot starring Parker and Druski, following the latter worrying about being late to get his PrizePicks lineup in. Parker comes to his aid by demonstrating the ability to copy the lineup using The Feed.</p>
  86. <p>“One thing I know about PrizePicks players is that they know ball and they love to win,” said Parker. “I know a thing or two about winning, and this campaign is all about teaming up and getting in on the action together.”</p>
  87. <p><em><strong>Featured image: PrizePicks</strong></em></p>
  88. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/prizepicks-teams-sam-richardson-druski-up-promote-the-feed/">PrizePicks teams up with famous faces to promote The Feed</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  89. ]]></content:encoded>
  93. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/PrizePicks-partners-with-Sam-Richardson-and-Drew-22Druski22-Desbordes-900x600.jpg" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  94. <item>
  95. <title>Man arrested under suspicion of Ponzi scheme linked to Rory Campbell&#8217;s betting syndicate</title>
  96. <link>https://readwrite.com/man-arrested-suspicion-ponzi-scheme-rory-campbells-betting-syndicate/</link>
  98. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rachael Davies]]></dc:creator>
  99. <pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2025 13:11:44 +0000</pubDate>
  100. <category><![CDATA[Betting]]></category>
  101. <category><![CDATA[crime]]></category>
  102. <category><![CDATA[illegal gambling]]></category>
  103. <category><![CDATA[United Kingdom]]></category>
  104. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541804</guid>
  105.  
  106. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Man-arrested-under-suspicion-of-Ponzi-scheme-linked-to-Rory-Campbells-betting-syndicate-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Rory Campbell is under scrutiny following reports of a £5 million loss linked to a betting syndicate he founded." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Man-arrested-under-suspicion-of-Ponzi-scheme-linked-to-Rory-Campbells-betting-syndicate-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Man-arrested-under-suspicion-of-Ponzi-scheme-linked-to-Rory-Campbells-betting-syndicate-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Man-arrested-under-suspicion-of-Ponzi-scheme-linked-to-Rory-Campbells-betting-syndicate-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Man-arrested-under-suspicion-of-Ponzi-scheme-linked-to-Rory-Campbells-betting-syndicate.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  107. <p>A man has reportedly been arrested as part of the investigation into the betting syndicate started up by Alastair Campbell&#8217;s&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/man-arrested-suspicion-ponzi-scheme-rory-campbells-betting-syndicate/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">Man arrested under suspicion of Ponzi scheme linked to Rory Campbell&#8217;s betting syndicate</span></a></p>
  108. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/man-arrested-suspicion-ponzi-scheme-rory-campbells-betting-syndicate/">Man arrested under suspicion of Ponzi scheme linked to Rory Campbell&#8217;s betting syndicate</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  109. ]]></description>
  110. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Man-arrested-under-suspicion-of-Ponzi-scheme-linked-to-Rory-Campbells-betting-syndicate-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Rory Campbell is under scrutiny following reports of a £5 million loss linked to a betting syndicate he founded." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Man-arrested-under-suspicion-of-Ponzi-scheme-linked-to-Rory-Campbells-betting-syndicate-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Man-arrested-under-suspicion-of-Ponzi-scheme-linked-to-Rory-Campbells-betting-syndicate-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Man-arrested-under-suspicion-of-Ponzi-scheme-linked-to-Rory-Campbells-betting-syndicate-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Man-arrested-under-suspicion-of-Ponzi-scheme-linked-to-Rory-Campbells-betting-syndicate.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>A man has reportedly been arrested as part of the investigation into the betting syndicate started up by Alastair Campbell&#8217;s son.</p>
  111. <p>An investigation has been ongoing into the former Labour strategist and journalist&#8217;s son Rory Campbell&#8217;s betting syndicate. The venture saw around 50 backers left without funds in December of last year, including Alastair himself. Some of the amounts lost are thought to be as high as £500,000 ($668,000).</p>
  112. <p>Now, the police have arrested a man from North London, so far kept anonymous, has been arrested under suspicion of running a £5 million ($6.7 million) Ponzi-style pyramid scheme related to the betting venture. The police <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/37003974/alastair-campbell-son-betting-syndicate-arrest/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">confirmed to the Sun</a> that the charges include suspicion of fraud by false representation relating to a betting syndicate. He has been released on bail pending inquiries.</p>
  113. <h2><span id="uncovering_the_betting_syndicate-2">Uncovering the betting syndicate</span></h2>
  114. <p>The venture was started by 37-year-old Oxford graduate and football analyst Rory Campbell in 2017, offering a way to compete with bookies on football games across Europe, including on <a href="https://readwrite.com/premier-league-top-five-odds-who-will-win-the-race-for-the-champions-league/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Premier League</a> and La Liga matches. Around 80 wagers a week were placed by traders using mathematical modelling.</p>
  115. <p>Early investors, including Campbell&#8217;s parents, were told they would get a percentage return on their investments by the summer, but to no avail. This sparked a group of investors to go to the police, bringing with them a package of documents including contracts, bank statements, spreadsheets, and emails stating that the fund was profitable.</p>
  116. <p>One investor reportedly died of cancer while waiting to be repaid, while another started a separate £266,000 county court action but is understood to have settled for a lot less than that.</p>
  117. <p>Gambling groups connected to criminal or fraudulent enterprises are no new thing, with an investigation from Mastercard pointing out that <a href="https://readwrite.com/illegal-gambling-websites-beseige-internet-as-mastercard-and-visa-still-process-payments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">illegal gambling websites are more prevalent than ever</a>. Just today, the UK and the US combined forces to take down <a href="https://readwrite.com/uk-us-take-down-15b-international-illegal-gambling-crypto-scam-network/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">an international crypto scam linked to a gambling group</a>.</p>
  118. <p><em><strong>Featured image: YouTube</strong></em></p>
  119. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/man-arrested-suspicion-ponzi-scheme-rory-campbells-betting-syndicate/">Man arrested under suspicion of Ponzi scheme linked to Rory Campbell&#8217;s betting syndicate</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  120. ]]></content:encoded>
  124. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Man-arrested-under-suspicion-of-Ponzi-scheme-linked-to-Rory-Campbells-betting-syndicate-900x600.png" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  125. <item>
  126. <title>Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase&#8217;s career is over after &#8216;irrefutable&#8217; gambling evidence &#8211; report</title>
  127. <link>https://readwrite.com/guardians-pitcher-emmanuel-clases-career-is-over-gambling-evidence/</link>
  129. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rachael Davies]]></dc:creator>
  130. <pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2025 12:05:18 +0000</pubDate>
  131. <category><![CDATA[Gambling]]></category>
  132. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541764</guid>
  133.  
  134. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emmanuel-Clase-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Emmanuel Clase. Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase&#039;s career is over after &#039;irrefutable&#039; gambling evidence" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emmanuel-Clase-300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emmanuel-Clase-900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emmanuel-Clase-240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emmanuel-Clase.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  135. <p>After an investigation found &#8216;irrefutable&#8217; evidence of gambling, it appears Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase&#8217;s career is over. MLB Insider Héctor&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/guardians-pitcher-emmanuel-clases-career-is-over-gambling-evidence/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase&#8217;s career is over after &#8216;irrefutable&#8217; gambling evidence &#8211; report</span></a></p>
  136. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/guardians-pitcher-emmanuel-clases-career-is-over-gambling-evidence/">Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase&#8217;s career is over after &#8216;irrefutable&#8217; gambling evidence &#8211; report</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  137. ]]></description>
  138. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emmanuel-Clase-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Emmanuel Clase. Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase&#039;s career is over after &#039;irrefutable&#039; gambling evidence" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emmanuel-Clase-300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emmanuel-Clase-900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emmanuel-Clase-240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emmanuel-Clase.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>After an investigation found &#8216;irrefutable&#8217; evidence of gambling, it appears Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase&#8217;s career is over.</p>
  139. <p>MLB Insider <a href="https://x.com/hgomez27/status/1977937291474526567" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Héctor Gómez has posted on X</a> that Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase will not play in Major League Baseball again, after the three-time All-Star closer was <a href="https://readwrite.com/guardians-closer-emmanuel-clase-paid-leave-mlb-betting-investigation/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">placed on non-disciplinary paid leave in July</a> amid a gambling investigation into unusual betting patterns. Now it seems the results of the investigation are drawing close, with evidence found against the pitcher.</p>
  140. <figure id="attachment_541855" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-541855" style="width: 896px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-541855 size-full" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-10-15-134432.png" alt="Screenshot of a tweet from Héctor Gómez (@hgomez27) stating, &quot;SOURCE: Emmanuel Clase will never pitch in MLB again. The gambling evidence found against him is irrefutable.&quot; The tweet tags @z101digital." width="896" height="260" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-10-15-134432.png 896w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-10-15-134432-300x87.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-10-15-134432-260x75.png 260w" sizes="(max-width: 896px) 100vw, 896px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-541855" class="wp-caption-text">Héctor Gómez reports Emmanuel Clase faces a lifetime MLB ban over gambling allegations. Credit: X</figcaption></figure>
  141. <p>&#8220;Emmanuel Clase will never pitch in MLB again,&#8221; wrote Gómez. &#8220;The gambling evidence found against him is irrefutable.&#8221;</p>
  142. <p>There&#8217;s been no official update from MLB, ever since a notice that <a href="https://readwrite.com/guardians-duo-to-stay-on-leave-in-gambling-investigation-until-further-notice/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the suspension would be ongoing until the investigation had run its course</a> early last month. ReadWrite has reached out to the organization for comment. However, if Gómez&#8217;s claims that evidence against Clase have been found, a permanent suspension from the majors could easily be on the cards.</p>
  143. <h2><span id="why_is_emmanuel_clase_facing_suspension-2">Why is Emmanuel Clase facing suspension?</span></h2>
  144. <p>MLB players are not allowed to bet on games, due to the conflict of interest and potential for fixing games or gaining insider knowledge that would allow for an unfair advantage.</p>
  145. <p>If it goes ahead, Clase&#8217;s suspension would be a sharp blow to the Guardians, after he led the team in terms of games finished and total saves for the last three seasons. In the season he was suspended this year, however, his pitching had not been up to his usual standard, with a 3.23 ERA and 24 saves across 48 games.</p>
  146. <p>Clase was put on leave alongside his teammate, whose investigation remains ongoing. With the rise of sports gambling in the US, <a href="https://readwrite.com/emmanuel-clase-gilbert-arenas-sports-gambling-betting-culture-athletes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">more and more athletes are having their gambling connections exposed</a>. As online gambling becomes more prevalent, it seems that more professionals are tempted by the chance to play and win.</p>
  147. <p><em><strong>Featured image: <a class="vNdLpe btTgYb" href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Emmanuel_Clase.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-ved="0CBsQ7o4GahcKEwjAys_6gKaQAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQBA">Wikimedia Commons</a>, licensed under <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CC BY 2.0</a></strong></em></p>
  148. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/guardians-pitcher-emmanuel-clases-career-is-over-gambling-evidence/">Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase&#8217;s career is over after &#8216;irrefutable&#8217; gambling evidence &#8211; report</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  149. ]]></content:encoded>
  153. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emmanuel-Clase-900x600.jpg" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  154. <item>
  155. <title>Underdog and St. Louis Blues team up for multiyear partnership</title>
  156. <link>https://readwrite.com/underdog-st-louis-blues-partnership/</link>
  158. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Suswati Basu]]></dc:creator>
  159. <pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2025 11:41:25 +0000</pubDate>
  160. <category><![CDATA[Gambling]]></category>
  161. <category><![CDATA[Missouri]]></category>
  162. <category><![CDATA[nhl]]></category>
  163. <category><![CDATA[underdog]]></category>
  164. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541632</guid>
  165.  
  166. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Underdog-and-St.-Louis-Blues-team-up-for-multiyear-partnership-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Underdog and St. Louis Blues team up for multiyear partnership. Logos of the St. Louis Blues and Underdog side by side on a blue background, representing their new multiyear partnership." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Underdog-and-St.-Louis-Blues-team-up-for-multiyear-partnership-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Underdog-and-St.-Louis-Blues-team-up-for-multiyear-partnership-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Underdog-and-St.-Louis-Blues-team-up-for-multiyear-partnership-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Underdog-and-St.-Louis-Blues-team-up-for-multiyear-partnership.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  167. <p>Underdog, an online daily fantasy sports platform, has teamed up with the St. Louis Blues in a new multiyear marketing&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/underdog-st-louis-blues-partnership/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">Underdog and St. Louis Blues team up for multiyear partnership</span></a></p>
  168. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/underdog-st-louis-blues-partnership/">Underdog and St. Louis Blues team up for multiyear partnership</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  169. ]]></description>
  170. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Underdog-and-St.-Louis-Blues-team-up-for-multiyear-partnership-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Underdog and St. Louis Blues team up for multiyear partnership. Logos of the St. Louis Blues and Underdog side by side on a blue background, representing their new multiyear partnership." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Underdog-and-St.-Louis-Blues-team-up-for-multiyear-partnership-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Underdog-and-St.-Louis-Blues-team-up-for-multiyear-partnership-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Underdog-and-St.-Louis-Blues-team-up-for-multiyear-partnership-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Underdog-and-St.-Louis-Blues-team-up-for-multiyear-partnership.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>Underdog, an online daily fantasy sports platform, has teamed up with the St. Louis Blues in a new multiyear marketing partnership designed to boost fan engagement at both home and away games. The deal also includes more marketing collaborations throughout the NHL season, similar to its partnership with the baseball team, the <a href="https://readwrite.com/underdog-and-kansas-city-royals-announce-partnership-for-sports-betting-market-access/">Kansas City Royals</a>.</p>
  171. <p>Underdog already holds fantasy sports licenses in several states and offers licensed sports betting in North Carolina. The company also has a sports betting license application under review by the Missouri Gaming Commission. Even though sports betting isn’t live in Missouri yet, Underdog says fans in the state can still download its app to play fantasy sports contests.</p>
  172. <p>The new partnership builds on previous efforts between Underdog and the Blues, such as sign-up promotions for daily fantasy games at Enterprise Center. It also gives Underdog permission to use the Blues’ branding in marketing materials and includes video, broadcast, and in-person activations throughout the season.</p>
  173. <h2><span id="underdog_and_st_louis_blues_partnership_an_obvious_choice-2">Underdog and St. Louis Blues partnership &#8216;an obvious choice&#8217;</span></h2>
  174. <p>“We’ve learned how rabid Blues fans are when it comes to leveling up their sports experience, making this partnership an obvious choice as we continue to introduce ourselves to the St. Louis market,” said Joshua Anderson, Director of Strategy at Underdog in a <a href="https://www.nhl.com/blues/news/underdog-blues-announce-multi-year-partnership" target="_blank" rel="noopener">press release</a>.</p>
  175. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">
  176. <p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Blues and <a href="https://twitter.com/Underdog?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Underdog</a> have announced a multiyear marketing partnership, creating a customer-first experience for fans during both home and away games. <a href="https://t.co/umel4rgVsp">https://t.co/umel4rgVsp</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/stlblues?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#stlblues</a></p>
  177. <p>&mdash; St. Louis Blues (@StLouisBlues) <a href="https://twitter.com/StLouisBlues/status/1978117374864691498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
  178. <p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
  179. <p>“Being on the ground at Enterprise Center this season, we’re meeting fans on the cusp of a new era in the overall sports experience, and doing so in a way that’s authentic to the Blues and everything they represent.”</p>
  180. <p>Steve Chapman, the St. Louis Blues’ Chief Revenue and Marketing Officer, said Underdog really stood out as the team got ready for the upcoming launch of sports betting in Missouri. “Throughout our preparations for the upcoming launch of sports betting in Missouri, Underdog quickly rose to the forefront of our conversations because of the value they placed on being present for Blues fans at Enterprise Center,” Chapman said.</p>
  181. <p>“We are proud to welcome Underdog as our first partner in this new category with a multiyear commitment to engage our fans with a significant presence both in-arena and on our broadcasts.”</p>
  182. <p>The announcement follows <a href="https://readwrite.com/crypto-com-partners-underdog-sports-prediction-markets-16-states/">Underdog’s recent partnership with Crypto.com</a> to launch sports prediction markets in 16 states, mainly in areas where sports betting hasn’t been legalized yet. The move showcases the growing interest in prediction markets, as platforms like Kalshi continue to expand their sports offerings while drawing more <a href="https://readwrite.com/nba-cftc-regulate-sports-prediction-markets/">attention from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission</a>.</p>
  183. <p><em>Featured image: Underdog / St. Louis Blues</em></p>
  184. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/underdog-st-louis-blues-partnership/">Underdog and St. Louis Blues team up for multiyear partnership</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  185. ]]></content:encoded>
  189. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Underdog-and-St.-Louis-Blues-team-up-for-multiyear-partnership-900x600.png" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  190. <item>
  191. <title>UK and US team up to dismantle $15B international crypto scam and illegal gambling network</title>
  192. <link>https://readwrite.com/uk-us-take-down-15b-international-illegal-gambling-crypto-scam-network/</link>
  194. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rachael Davies]]></dc:creator>
  195. <pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2025 10:10:27 +0000</pubDate>
  196. <category><![CDATA[Gambling]]></category>
  197. <category><![CDATA[crime]]></category>
  198. <category><![CDATA[illegal gambling]]></category>
  199. <category><![CDATA[United Kingdom]]></category>
  200. <category><![CDATA[United States]]></category>
  201. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541646</guid>
  202.  
  203. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Chen-Zhi-from-Prince-Holding-Group-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Chen Zhi from Prince Holding Group. UK and US team up to dismantle $15B international crypto scam and illegal gambling network" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Chen-Zhi-from-Prince-Holding-Group-300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Chen-Zhi-from-Prince-Holding-Group-900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Chen-Zhi-from-Prince-Holding-Group-240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Chen-Zhi-from-Prince-Holding-Group.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  204. <p>The UK and the US governments have joined forces to take down a Southeast Asian crypto scam network, indicting the&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/uk-us-take-down-15b-international-illegal-gambling-crypto-scam-network/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">UK and US team up to dismantle $15B international crypto scam and illegal gambling network</span></a></p>
  205. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/uk-us-take-down-15b-international-illegal-gambling-crypto-scam-network/">UK and US team up to dismantle $15B international crypto scam and illegal gambling network</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  206. ]]></description>
  207. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Chen-Zhi-from-Prince-Holding-Group-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Chen Zhi from Prince Holding Group. UK and US team up to dismantle $15B international crypto scam and illegal gambling network" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Chen-Zhi-from-Prince-Holding-Group-300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Chen-Zhi-from-Prince-Holding-Group-900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Chen-Zhi-from-Prince-Holding-Group-240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Chen-Zhi-from-Prince-Holding-Group.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>The UK and the US governments have joined forces to take down a <a href="https://readwrite.com/vietnam-laos-police-bust-massive-transnational-online-gambling-syndicate/">Southeast Asian crypto scam network</a>, indicting the founder of Prince Holding Group.</p>
  208. <p>An international network that runs illegal crypto scam centres using trafficked workers has been sanctioned by the UK and US governments in the largest ever forfeiture action. This has also led to the indictment of UK and Cambodian national Chen Zhi, the founder and chairman of the Cambodian business Prince Holding Group, under charges of wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy. He is currently still at large.</p>
  209. <p>Trafficked people were allegedly held against their will and forced to engage in a cryptocurrency investment fraud scheme, known as &#8216;pig butchering&#8217; scams, as well as in illegal online gambling operations linked to the same criminal network.</p>
  210. <p>It&#8217;s thought that billions of dollars have been stolen from victims around the world. American authorities have seized around 127,271 Bitcoin, currently worth approximately $15 billion, believed to be connected to the intertwined scam and gambling enterprises.</p>
  211. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">
  212. <p lang="en" dir="ltr">Chairman of Prince Group Indicted for Operating Cambodian Forced Labor Scam Compounds Engaged in Cryptocurrency Fraud Schemes <a href="https://t.co/y2c7tiShgH">https://t.co/y2c7tiShgH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NewYorkFBI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NewYorkFBI</a> <a href="https://t.co/8Nde99bQpu">pic.twitter.com/8Nde99bQpu</a></p>
  213. <p>&mdash; FBI (@FBI) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBI/status/1978143950478213164?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
  214. <p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
  215. <p>“Today the FBI and partners executed one of the largest financial fraud takedowns in history,” <a href="https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/chairman-prince-group-indicted-operating-cambodian-forced-labor-scam-compounds-engaged" target="_blank" rel="noopener">said FBI Director Kash Patel</a>.</p>
  216. <p>“This is an individual who allegedly operated a vast criminal network across multiple continents involving forced labor, money laundering, investment schemes, and stolen assets – targeting millions of innocent victims in the process. Justice will be done and I’m proud of the men and women of the FBI who executed the mission faithfully.”</p>
  217. <h2><span id="an_international_move_against_the_illegal_gambling_and_crypto_scam_network-2">An international move against the illegal gambling and crypto scam network</span></h2>
  218. <p>In the UK, authorities have seized and frozen Chen&#8217;s UK-based assets, including a £12 million mansion on Avenue Road in North London, a £100 million office building on Fenchurch Street in the City of London, and seventeen flats on New Oxford Street and in Nine Elms in South London.</p>
  219. <p>&#8220;The masterminds behind these horrific scam centres are ruining the lives of vulnerable people and buying up London homes to store their money,&#8221; <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-and-us-take-joint-action-to-disrupt-major-online-fraud-network" target="_blank" rel="noopener">said UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper</a>. &#8220;Together with our US allies, we are taking decisive action to combat the growing transnational threat posed by this network – upholding human rights, protecting British nationals and keeping dirty money off our streets.&#8221;</p>
  220. <p>If convicted, Chen could face the maximum penalty of 40 years in prison. Scams are becoming increasingly smart in recent years, <a href="https://readwrite.com/ai-betting-scam-is-uncovered-with-ai-voice-technology-used-to-entice-victims/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">especially with the rise of AI</a>.</p>
  221. <p><em><strong>Featured image: Prince Holding Group</strong></em></p>
  222. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/uk-us-take-down-15b-international-illegal-gambling-crypto-scam-network/">UK and US team up to dismantle $15B international crypto scam and illegal gambling network</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  223. ]]></content:encoded>
  227. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Chen-Zhi-from-Prince-Holding-Group-900x600.jpg" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  228. <item>
  229. <title>MGM Yonkers pulls out of New York casino bid race</title>
  230. <link>https://readwrite.com/mgm-yonkers-pulls-out-of-new-york-casino-bid-race/</link>
  232. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rachael Davies]]></dc:creator>
  233. <pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2025 09:08:07 +0000</pubDate>
  234. <category><![CDATA[Casino]]></category>
  235. <category><![CDATA[MGM]]></category>
  236. <category><![CDATA[New York]]></category>
  237. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541631</guid>
  238.  
  239. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MGM-Yonkers-casino-plan-300x200.jpeg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="MGM Yonkers casino in New York mockup. MGM has pulled out of the New York casino race" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MGM-Yonkers-casino-plan-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MGM-Yonkers-casino-plan-900x600.jpeg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MGM-Yonkers-casino-plan-240x160.jpeg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MGM-Yonkers-casino-plan.jpeg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  240. <p>As the competition heats up in the race to secure one of up to three New York casino licenses, MGM&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/mgm-yonkers-pulls-out-of-new-york-casino-bid-race/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">MGM Yonkers pulls out of New York casino bid race</span></a></p>
  241. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/mgm-yonkers-pulls-out-of-new-york-casino-bid-race/">MGM Yonkers pulls out of New York casino bid race</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  242. ]]></description>
  243. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MGM-Yonkers-casino-plan-300x200.jpeg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="MGM Yonkers casino in New York mockup. MGM has pulled out of the New York casino race" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MGM-Yonkers-casino-plan-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MGM-Yonkers-casino-plan-900x600.jpeg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MGM-Yonkers-casino-plan-240x160.jpeg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MGM-Yonkers-casino-plan.jpeg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>As the competition heats up in the race to secure <a href="https://readwrite.com/everything-you-need-know-new-york-casinos-map-locations-bidders/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">one of up to three New York casino licenses</a>, MGM Resorts has unexpectedly pulled out of the running. The MGM Yonkers arm officially withdrew its commercial casino license application to the New York Gaming Commission and the Gaming Facility Location Board.</p>
  244. <p>&#8220;Today, MGM Resorts made the difficult decision to withdraw its application for a commercial casino license in Yonkers, New York,&#8221; reads <a href="https://investors.mgmresorts.com/investors/news-releases/press-release-details/2025/MGM-YONKERS-WITHDRAWS-COMMERCIAL-CASINO-LICENSE-APPLICATION-IN-NEW-YORK/default.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the statement from MGM Resorts</a>. &#8220;Since submitting our application in June, the competitive and economic assumptions underpinning our application have shifted, altering our return expectations on the proposed $2.3 billion investment.</p>
  245. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">
  246. <p lang="en" dir="ltr">MGM dropping its Yonkers casino license application after years of planning and generating community support &#8211; and two months from the licensing decision &#8211; is one of the most shocking moves (in terms of unlikelihood) in the past decade of gaming industry developments</p>
  247. <p>&mdash; Ryan Butler (@ButlerBets) <a href="https://twitter.com/ButlerBets/status/1978249337223204959?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
  248. <p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
  249. <p>&#8220;The newly defined competitive landscape – with four proposals clustered in a small geographic area – challenges the returns we initially anticipated from this project.</p>
  250. <p>&#8220;Also, our proposal to renovate and expand Empire City Casino was predicated on the receipt of a 30-year commercial casino license but based on newly issued guidance from the State of New York we now expect to qualify for only a 15-year license. Taken together, these events result in a proposition that no longer aligns with our commitment to capital stewardship, nor to that of our real estate partner in Yonkers, VICI.&#8221;</p>
  251. <p>The company went on to underline its continued presence in New York via the Empire City Casino, purchased back in 2019.</p>
  252. <p>&#8220;We know our decision will impact many individuals; we remain committed to operating the property in its current format and believe it will continue to enjoy success serving customers in Yonkers and the surrounding communities,&#8217; MGM Resorts wrote.</p>
  253. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">
  254. <p lang="en" dir="ltr">My statement <a href="https://twitter.com/EmpireCCasino?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmpireCCasino</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GovKathyHochul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GovKathyHochul</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://t.co/PH22PMiile">pic.twitter.com/PH22PMiile</a></p>
  255. <p>&mdash; Mayor Mike Spano (@MayorMikeSpano) <a href="https://twitter.com/MayorMikeSpano/status/1978210444671098884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
  256. <p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
  257. <p>However, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano wrote a scathing response, suggesting the move may have been for political reasons, as US President Donald Trump is reportedly set to receive $115 million if Bally&#8217;s obtains a license. He has subsequently called for an investigation by the state.</p>
  258. <h2><span id="whats_next_for_the_new_york_casino_bid_battle-2">What&#8217;s next for the New York casino bid battle?</span></h2>
  259. <p>As it stands after MGM&#8217;s withdrawal, <a href="https://readwrite.com/new-yorks-citi-field-casino-becomes-fourth-proposal-to-advance-to-the-next-stage/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">three bids remain for up to three slots</a>: Citi Field in Queens, Genting Group’s Resorts World New York City, and Bally’s Bronx casino. Just because there are up to three licenses available, doesn&#8217;t mean they will all be approved.</p>
  260. <p>The necessary licensing steps still need to take place, as well as paying a minimum of $500 million for the license itself.</p>
  261. <p><em><strong>Featured image: MGM Resorts</strong></em></p>
  262. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/mgm-yonkers-pulls-out-of-new-york-casino-bid-race/">MGM Yonkers pulls out of New York casino bid race</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  263. ]]></content:encoded>
  267. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MGM-Yonkers-casino-plan-900x600.jpeg" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  268. <item>
  269. <title>BetMGM partners with BetBlocker in responsible gambling push</title>
  270. <link>https://readwrite.com/betmgm-partners-betblocker/</link>
  272. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Joel Loynds]]></dc:creator>
  273. <pubDate>Tue, 14 Oct 2025 15:17:30 +0000</pubDate>
  274. <category><![CDATA[Gambling]]></category>
  275. <category><![CDATA[BetMGM]]></category>
  276. <category><![CDATA[responsible gambling]]></category>
  277. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541384</guid>
  278.  
  279. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-partners-with-BetBlocker-in-responsible-gambling-push-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="BetMGM partners with BetBlocker to expand responsible gambling and player protection efforts. BetMGM logo displayed beside casino imagery including poker chips, playing cards, and a roulette wheel, representing online gambling and gaming." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-partners-with-BetBlocker-in-responsible-gambling-push-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-partners-with-BetBlocker-in-responsible-gambling-push-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-partners-with-BetBlocker-in-responsible-gambling-push-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-partners-with-BetBlocker-in-responsible-gambling-push.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  280. <p>As companies attempt to deepen their protections against gambling harm, BetMGM International has partnered with BetBlocker to increase its responsible&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/betmgm-partners-betblocker/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">BetMGM partners with BetBlocker in responsible gambling push</span></a></p>
  281. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/betmgm-partners-betblocker/">BetMGM partners with BetBlocker in responsible gambling push</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  282. ]]></description>
  283. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-partners-with-BetBlocker-in-responsible-gambling-push-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="BetMGM partners with BetBlocker to expand responsible gambling and player protection efforts. BetMGM logo displayed beside casino imagery including poker chips, playing cards, and a roulette wheel, representing online gambling and gaming." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-partners-with-BetBlocker-in-responsible-gambling-push-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-partners-with-BetBlocker-in-responsible-gambling-push-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-partners-with-BetBlocker-in-responsible-gambling-push-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-partners-with-BetBlocker-in-responsible-gambling-push.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>As companies attempt to deepen their protections against gambling harm, BetMGM International has partnered with BetBlocker to increase its responsible gambling initiatives. The new addition will be signalled via BetMGM&#8217;s website, where a page dedicated to tools to prevent gambling harm now has a section just for BetBlocker.</p>
  284. <p>BetBlocker is an app that allows users to set it to block gambling websites. It&#8217;ll even give options for VPN services for people trying to skirt around it. Contained within the app is a list of websites that it adds to exclusion lists on the device to prevent access. Once activated, the pages simply will not load until it&#8217;s deactivated or the user finds a way around it.</p>
  285. <p>Stake, the crypto-backed gambling site, <a href="https://readwrite.com/stake-partners-with-betblocker-to-enhance-responsible-gambling-offering/">also partnered</a> with BetBlocker in 2024, and in August 2025, a Finnish company, Casino Guru, began work on localization for the app.</p>
  286. <h2><span id="betblocker_comments_on_new_partnership-2">BetBlocker comments on new partnership</span></h2>
  287. <p>Reported by <a href="https://www.gamblinginsider.com/news/31584/mgm-resorts-international-partners-with-betblocker" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gambling Insider</a>, Pedro Romero, the Chief of Safer Gambling Partnerships for BetBlocker, said:</p>
  288. <p>&#8220;We are very excited to announce that MGM Resorts International has partnered with BetBlocker to strengthen player protection efforts.</p>
  289. <p>&#8220;This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to making safer gambling tools accessible, visible, and stigma-free, ensuring that help is always within reach.</p>
  290. <p>“Big thanks to the MGM team and especially to Garrett and Richard for their leadership and support in prioritising safer gambling and digital wellbeing.&#8221;</p>
  291. <h2><span id="betmgm_and_others_increase_safety-2">BetMGM and others increase safety</span></h2>
  292. <p>Multiple companies have begun moving to increase safety around gambling, as its prevalence increases worldwide. With huge risks on offshore and unregulated sites, as well as the creeping &#8220;social gaming&#8221;, like sweepstakes casinos, it&#8217;s never been more important to provide security for the customer.</p>
  293. <p>In September, BetMGM made other moves in the space, <a href="https://readwrite.com/mgm-resorts-betmgm-partner-expand-responsible-gaming/">partnering up with the American Gaming Association</a> (AGA) to run a Responsible Gaming Education Month. Earlier, in July, the company also brought in its ex-NBA star and company ambassador to promote <a href="https://readwrite.com/betmgm-brings-responsible-gaming-talks-to-puerto-ricos-athletes/">responsible gambling in Puerto Rico</a>.</p>
  294. <p><em>Featured image: BetMGM</em></p>
  295. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/betmgm-partners-betblocker/">BetMGM partners with BetBlocker in responsible gambling push</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  296. ]]></content:encoded>
  300. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-partners-with-BetBlocker-in-responsible-gambling-push-900x600.png" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  301. <item>
  302. <title>Light &#038; Wonder gives update on November NASDAQ exit</title>
  303. <link>https://readwrite.com/light-wonder-update-november-nasdaq-exit/</link>
  305. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Joel Loynds]]></dc:creator>
  306. <pubDate>Tue, 14 Oct 2025 14:14:44 +0000</pubDate>
  307. <category><![CDATA[Gambling]]></category>
  308. <category><![CDATA[Light & Wonder]]></category>
  309. <category><![CDATA[Light and Wonder]]></category>
  310. <category><![CDATA[Nasdaq]]></category>
  311. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541327</guid>
  312.  
  313. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Light-Wonder-plans-to-crush-debt-with-1-billion-unsecured-notes-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Light &amp; Wonder plans to crush debt with $1 billion unsecured notes. Light &amp; Wonder logo on top of light blue gradient background." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Light-Wonder-plans-to-crush-debt-with-1-billion-unsecured-notes-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Light-Wonder-plans-to-crush-debt-with-1-billion-unsecured-notes-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Light-Wonder-plans-to-crush-debt-with-1-billion-unsecured-notes-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Light-Wonder-plans-to-crush-debt-with-1-billion-unsecured-notes.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  314. <p>Light &#38; Wonder, the casino equipment maker, has given an update on its exit from the NASDAQ and moving solely&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/light-wonder-update-november-nasdaq-exit/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">Light &#38; Wonder gives update on November NASDAQ exit</span></a></p>
  315. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/light-wonder-update-november-nasdaq-exit/">Light &amp; Wonder gives update on November NASDAQ exit</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  316. ]]></description>
  317. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Light-Wonder-plans-to-crush-debt-with-1-billion-unsecured-notes-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Light &amp; Wonder plans to crush debt with $1 billion unsecured notes. Light &amp; Wonder logo on top of light blue gradient background." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Light-Wonder-plans-to-crush-debt-with-1-billion-unsecured-notes-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Light-Wonder-plans-to-crush-debt-with-1-billion-unsecured-notes-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Light-Wonder-plans-to-crush-debt-with-1-billion-unsecured-notes-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Light-Wonder-plans-to-crush-debt-with-1-billion-unsecured-notes.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><div class="el-p">
  318. <p dir="auto">Light &amp; Wonder, the casino equipment maker, has given an update on its exit from the NASDAQ and moving solely to the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). Announced on July 31, the company plans to shift its publicly traded business to just ASX, with the new expectation that it will now exit on November 13, 2025.</p>
  319. </div>
  320. <div class="el-p">
  321. <p dir="auto">The reasoning given behind the move from Light &amp; Wonder is that it allows them to have a &#8220;strategic focus&#8221; on bringing the business together in terms of &#8220;growth plans&#8221; and where the business is, described as &#8220;aligning our capital markets presence&#8221;.</p>
  322. </div>
  323. <div class="el-p">
  324. <p dir="auto">By shifting to Australia, Light &amp; Wonder claims that the market has a &#8220;deep and liquid market that has a robust understanding of the gaming sector.&#8221; It&#8217;s reported that Australians have become the biggest spenders on gambling in the world, with a 2024 report showing that they lose more than 25 billion AUD ($16,123,875,000) per year.</p>
  325. <h2 dir="auto"><span id="despite_nasdaq_exit_light_wonder_isnt_failing-2">Despite NASDAQ exit, Light &amp; Wonder isn&#8217;t failing</span></h2>
  326. </div>
  327. <div class="el-p">
  328. <p dir="auto">Light &amp; Wonder&#8217;s business isn&#8217;t on a downward turn, as it has reported <a href="https://readwrite.com/light-wonder-16-increase-net-income-q2/">positive revenue results</a> in 2025. However, the company views Australia as the next major market to try and dominate in the search for growth opportunities, something a lot of companies are currently focused on. It also gained a <a href="https://readwrite.com/light-wonder-becomes-latest-to-be-granted-gaming-related-license-in-uae/">license for the UAE</a>.</p>
  329. </div>
  330. <div class="el-p">
  331. <p dir="auto">In the <a href="https://explore.lnw.com/newsroom/light-wonder-announces-update-on-nasdaq-delisting-timetable/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">press release</a>, Light &amp; Wonder offers a few methods for holders of shares. One is to convert them to ASX tradable stock, which requires the use of a broker, or to fill out the documentation yourself. They also suggest selling or holding onto shares via NASDAQ, though holding onto them will force traders to do this &#8220;over-the-counter&#8221; after the company exits.</p>
  332. </div>
  333. <div class="el-p">
  334. <p dir="auto">They also provide a timetable for how this will run:</p>
  335. </div>
  336. <div class="el-ul">
  337. <ul class="has-list-bullet">
  338. <li dir="auto" data-line="0"><strong>Form 25</strong> <strong>notice</strong> <strong>of delisting filing</strong> <strong>with the SEC:</strong> Monday, November 3, 2025 (EST)</li>
  339. <li dir="auto" data-line="1"><strong>Last day of trading on Nasdaq:</strong> Wednesday, November 12, 2025 (EST)</li>
  340. <li dir="auto" data-line="2"><strong>Suspension of trading on Nasdaq:</strong> after the close of trading on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 (EST)</li>
  341. <li dir="auto" data-line="3"><strong>Delisting effective:</strong> prior to open of trading on Nasdaq, Thursday, November 13, 2025 (EST)</li>
  342. <li dir="auto" data-line="4"><strong>Commencement of trading on ASX on a sole primary basis:</strong> 10:00am AEDT, Friday, November 14, 2025</li>
  343. </ul>
  344. <p><em>Featured image: Light &amp; Wonder</em></p>
  345. </div>
  346. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/light-wonder-update-november-nasdaq-exit/">Light &amp; Wonder gives update on November NASDAQ exit</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  347. ]]></content:encoded>
  351. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Light-Wonder-plans-to-crush-debt-with-1-billion-unsecured-notes-900x600.png" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  352. <item>
  353. <title>Fanatics Sportsbook pays out $1.5M due to Egbuka injury</title>
  354. <link>https://readwrite.com/fanatics-sportsbook-pays-out-1-5m-egbuka-injury/</link>
  356. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sophie Atkinson]]></dc:creator>
  357. <pubDate>Tue, 14 Oct 2025 13:16:40 +0000</pubDate>
  358. <category><![CDATA[Betting]]></category>
  359. <category><![CDATA[Fanatics]]></category>
  360. <category><![CDATA[football]]></category>
  361. <category><![CDATA[NFL]]></category>
  362. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541282</guid>
  363.  
  364. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emeka-Egbuka-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Receiver Emeka Egbuka on the field, close-up, wearing a red jersey with &#039;2&#039; written on the front in white." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emeka-Egbuka-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emeka-Egbuka-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emeka-Egbuka-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emeka-Egbuka.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  365. <p>A massive $1.5 million payout has taken place by Fanatics Sportsbook after rookie Emeka Egbuka exited a game on Sunday&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/fanatics-sportsbook-pays-out-1-5m-egbuka-injury/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">Fanatics Sportsbook pays out $1.5M due to Egbuka injury</span></a></p>
  366. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/fanatics-sportsbook-pays-out-1-5m-egbuka-injury/">Fanatics Sportsbook pays out $1.5M due to Egbuka injury</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  367. ]]></description>
  368. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emeka-Egbuka-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Receiver Emeka Egbuka on the field, close-up, wearing a red jersey with &#039;2&#039; written on the front in white." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emeka-Egbuka-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emeka-Egbuka-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emeka-Egbuka-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emeka-Egbuka.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>A massive $1.5 million payout has taken place by Fanatics Sportsbook after rookie Emeka Egbuka exited a game on Sunday due to a hamstring injury.</p>
  369. <p>The sportsbook announced that the <a href="https://www.fanaticsinc.com/news/the-source-fanatics-sportsbook-expands-fair-play-protection-to-first-half-of-all-2025-pro-football-games" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fair Play</a> had been initiated, with a social media post stating: “FAIR PLAY<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/2122.png" alt="™" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> activated. Honoring all player prop bets impacted by Emeka Egbuka&#8217;s 2nd Qtr injury.”</p>
  370. <p>This marks a new record, with other major Fair Play payouts having been seen when Jimmy Butler was injured and Anthony Davis on Christmas Day, but this amount is thought to be the largest single payout in the history of the Fanatics protection program.</p>
  371. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">
  372. <p lang="en" dir="ltr">Another day another FAIR PLAY<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/2122.png" alt="™" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> save <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/1f91d.png" alt="🤝" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> this time on a 6-leg parlay that paid out 27K <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/1f92f.png" alt="🤯" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> <a href="https://t.co/Ox74d654HS">pic.twitter.com/Ox74d654HS</a></p>
  373. <p>&mdash; The Home of FAIR PLAY<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/2122.png" alt="™" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> (@FanaticsBook) <a href="https://twitter.com/FanaticsBook/status/1977555277097672723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
  374. <p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
  375. <p>The announcement meant that customers who placed a prop bet on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Emeka Egbuka would have received a cash refund. Fanatics later shared how one customer benefited as they then saw a $27,000 payout on a parlay as the Egbuka bet was voided and the rest of the ticket continued.</p>
  376. <h2><span id="what_is_fanatics_sportsbooks_fair_play_program-2">What is Fanatics Sportsbook’s Fair Play program?</span></h2>
  377. <p>The Fanatics Sportsbook’s Fair Play program aims to cover bettors if a player gets injured. If, for example, a professional football player that a bettor places a prop wager on gets injured in the first quarter and doesn’t return, the bet will be refunded.</p>
  378. <p>In April, the company announced it was extending Fair Play from the first quarter to the first half for the entire NBA Playoffs. ”Fair Play will kick in whether it’s a straight, parlay or Same Game Parlay (SGP). In addition, <a href="https://readwrite.com/fanatics-casino-app-launches-four-states-2m-fancash/">Fanatics Sportsbook</a> will introduce the Fair Play Hub in the app, where customers can track live player news and Fair Play payouts,” the company stated in a press release.</p>
  379. <p>At the time, just a few months ago, more than $6 million had been paid out through the program. It includes other sports too, like tennis, golf, basketball, hockey, and soccer.</p>
  380. <p><b><i>Featured Image: Credit to Ruralexpat on Wikimedia Commons</i></b></p>
  381. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/fanatics-sportsbook-pays-out-1-5m-egbuka-injury/">Fanatics Sportsbook pays out $1.5M due to Egbuka injury</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  382. ]]></content:encoded>
  386. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emeka-Egbuka-900x600.png" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  387. <item>
  388. <title>BetMGM raises profit outlook as it plans $200M shareholder payout</title>
  389. <link>https://readwrite.com/betmgm-raises-profit-plans-200m-shareholder-payout/</link>
  391. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Suswati Basu]]></dc:creator>
  392. <pubDate>Tue, 14 Oct 2025 13:04:34 +0000</pubDate>
  393. <category><![CDATA[Gambling]]></category>
  394. <category><![CDATA[BetMGM]]></category>
  395. <category><![CDATA[earnings]]></category>
  396. <category><![CDATA[Revenue]]></category>
  397. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541406</guid>
  398.  
  399. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-raises-profit-outlook-as-it-plans-200M-shareholder-payout-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="BetMGM raises profit outlook as it plans $200M shareholder payout. BetMGM logo on top of generic image of coins." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-raises-profit-outlook-as-it-plans-200M-shareholder-payout-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-raises-profit-outlook-as-it-plans-200M-shareholder-payout-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-raises-profit-outlook-as-it-plans-200M-shareholder-payout-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-raises-profit-outlook-as-it-plans-200M-shareholder-payout.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  400. <p>BetMGM says it’s raising its full-year profit forecast and plans to give at least $200 million back to its joint&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/betmgm-raises-profit-plans-200m-shareholder-payout/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">BetMGM raises profit outlook as it plans $200M shareholder payout</span></a></p>
  401. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/betmgm-raises-profit-plans-200m-shareholder-payout/">BetMGM raises profit outlook as it plans $200M shareholder payout</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  402. ]]></description>
  403. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-raises-profit-outlook-as-it-plans-200M-shareholder-payout-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="BetMGM raises profit outlook as it plans $200M shareholder payout. BetMGM logo on top of generic image of coins." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-raises-profit-outlook-as-it-plans-200M-shareholder-payout-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-raises-profit-outlook-as-it-plans-200M-shareholder-payout-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-raises-profit-outlook-as-it-plans-200M-shareholder-payout-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-raises-profit-outlook-as-it-plans-200M-shareholder-payout.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>BetMGM says it’s raising its full-year profit forecast and plans to give at least $200 million back to its joint owners, Entain and MGM Resorts International, after posting <a href="https://readwrite.com/mgm-resorts-reports-highest-ever-revenue-in-second-quarter-of-2025/">stronger-than-expected results</a> for the third quarter of 2025.</p>
  404. <p>The company, which operates sports betting and online gaming platforms across North America, said in a <a href="https://investors.mgmresorts.com/investors/news-releases/press-release-details/2025/BETMGM-Q3-2025-BUSINESS-UPDATE-AND-RAISED-FY25-GUIDANCE/default.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">press release</a> that it brought in $667 million in net revenue for the quarter, a 23% increase from the same time last year.</p>
  405. <p>Its iGaming revenue grew 21% year over year, and online sports revenue rose 36%. BetMGM also reported third-quarter EBITDA of $41 million, which is $57 million higher than last year.</p>
  406. <p>“BetMGM&#8217;s momentum from H1 continued into Q3, underpinned by the ongoing execution of our strategic plan,” said Chief Executive Officer Adam Greenblatt. “The execution in operations we have described this year – improved marketing efficiency, player management, brand positioning, and product and platform improvements – all contributed to our strong revenue growth and material cash flow increase from both sides of the business.”</p>
  407. <p>Greenblatt added that “strong underlying metrics and margin outperformance during July and August support our confidence in raising guidance for full year 2025.” He also pointed out that the company has “reached yet another inflection point in our journey, returning operating cash flow back to Entain and MGM Resorts.”</p>
  408. <h2><span id="betmgm_q3_2025_profit_rises_on_online_sports_gain-2">BetMGM Q3 2025 profit rises on online sports gain</span></h2>
  409. <p>For the first nine months of 2025, BetMGM reported year-to-date net revenue of $2.016 billion and EBITDA of $150 million. The company said it holds a 15% share of gross gaming revenue across active markets, including 21% in iGaming and 8% in online sports betting.</p>
  410. <p>BetMGM has raised its full-year 2025 outlook to at least $2.75 billion in net revenue and about $200 million in EBITDA. It also reaffirmed its goal of generating more than $500 million in contribution, with <a href="https://readwrite.com/betmgm-reports-strong-q1-results/">positive results expected from online sports</a>, like that of its first quarter.</p>
  411. <p>The company plans to distribute extra cash to its parent companies each quarter while keeping at least $100 million in unrestricted cash on hand. <a href="https://readwrite.com/betmgm-2025-forecast-surging-first-half-revenue/">By the end of 2025</a>, BetMGM expects to have around $100 million in unrestricted cash after these distributions.</p>
  412. <p>On the operations side, BetMGM highlighted recent product upgrades and the success of its “Make it Legendary” marketing campaign, which launched before the football season and features actor <a href="https://readwrite.com/betmgm-new-look-jon-hamm-brand-ambassador/">Jon Hamm</a>. The company reported growth in player acquisition and retention, especially in iGaming, where the average number of monthly active users rose 21% from last year.</p>
  413. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">
  414. <p lang="en" dir="ltr">Never miss a photo finish <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/1f34e.png" alt="🍎" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/1f4f8.png" alt="📸" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> Make every play legendary this football season <a href="https://t.co/jLDC4gwHC5">pic.twitter.com/jLDC4gwHC5</a></p>
  415. <p>&mdash; BetMGM <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/1f981.png" alt="🦁" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> (@BetMGM) <a href="https://twitter.com/BetMGM/status/1961413783793873357?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
  416. <p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
  417. <p>Better player engagement and <a href="https://readwrite.com/betmgm-new-app-redesign/">app improvements</a>, such as live same-game parlay options and a refreshed design, also helped boost activity. The company said handle per active customer climbed 23%, while net gaming revenue per active customer jumped 49% compared with a year ago.</p>
  418. <p>BetMGM also said it has more than $250 million in liquidity, made up of $100 million in unrestricted cash and an unused $150 million revolving credit facility.</p>
  419. <p>“BetMGM is healthier than it has ever been,” Greenblatt said. “Our stronger than expected performance through Q3 positions us well for the rest of the year and into 2026.”</p>
  420. <p><em>Featured image: BetMGM</em></p>
  421. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/betmgm-raises-profit-plans-200m-shareholder-payout/">BetMGM raises profit outlook as it plans $200M shareholder payout</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  422. ]]></content:encoded>
  426. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BetMGM-raises-profit-outlook-as-it-plans-200M-shareholder-payout-900x600.png" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  427. <item>
  428. <title>Brazilian bill proposes to double gambling taxes to 24%</title>
  429. <link>https://readwrite.com/brazil-bill-proposes-double-gambling-taxes-24/</link>
  431. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sophie Atkinson]]></dc:creator>
  432. <pubDate>Tue, 14 Oct 2025 12:32:06 +0000</pubDate>
  433. <category><![CDATA[Gambling]]></category>
  434. <category><![CDATA[Brazil]]></category>
  435. <category><![CDATA[gambling legislation]]></category>
  436. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541267</guid>
  437.  
  438. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Black-background-with-a-vertical-social-media-video-in-the-middle-from-Brazilian-congressman-Lindbergh-Farias-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Black background with a vertical social media video in the middle, from Brazilian congressman Lindbergh Farias" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Black-background-with-a-vertical-social-media-video-in-the-middle-from-Brazilian-congressman-Lindbergh-Farias-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Black-background-with-a-vertical-social-media-video-in-the-middle-from-Brazilian-congressman-Lindbergh-Farias-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Black-background-with-a-vertical-social-media-video-in-the-middle-from-Brazilian-congressman-Lindbergh-Farias-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Black-background-with-a-vertical-social-media-video-in-the-middle-from-Brazilian-congressman-Lindbergh-Farias.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  439. <p>In Brazil, a new bill has been proposed which would see an increase in the tax on online gambling companies,&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/brazil-bill-proposes-double-gambling-taxes-24/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">Brazilian bill proposes to double gambling taxes to 24%</span></a></p>
  440. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/brazil-bill-proposes-double-gambling-taxes-24/">Brazilian bill proposes to double gambling taxes to 24%</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  441. ]]></description>
  442. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Black-background-with-a-vertical-social-media-video-in-the-middle-from-Brazilian-congressman-Lindbergh-Farias-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Black background with a vertical social media video in the middle, from Brazilian congressman Lindbergh Farias" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Black-background-with-a-vertical-social-media-video-in-the-middle-from-Brazilian-congressman-Lindbergh-Farias-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Black-background-with-a-vertical-social-media-video-in-the-middle-from-Brazilian-congressman-Lindbergh-Farias-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Black-background-with-a-vertical-social-media-video-in-the-middle-from-Brazilian-congressman-Lindbergh-Farias-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Black-background-with-a-vertical-social-media-video-in-the-middle-from-Brazilian-congressman-Lindbergh-Farias.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>In Brazil, a new bill has been proposed which would see an increase in the tax on online gambling companies, raising it from 12% to 24%, if it were to be approved.</p>
  443. <p>Congressman Lindbergh Farias, who is the leader of the Workers Party (PT), has been vocal about the bill, and he took to social media on Sunday (October 12) to share his stance in a one-minute video.</p>
  444. <p>The social media post, which has almost received 100,000 views, explains how the higher gambling taxes would be used to invest in health, education and social programs.</p>
  445. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">
  446. <p lang="pt" dir="ltr">Nós apresentamos um projeto que dobra a cobrança sobre as casas de aposta — de 12% pra 24% — pra investir em saúde, educação e programas sociais.<br />Eles defendem o tigrinho e os bilionários. Nós defendemos o povo.<br />ASSINE O ABAIXO-ASSINADO no site <a href="https://t.co/5p91aLRjx4">https://t.co/5p91aLRjx4</a> <a href="https://t.co/7EA2irWjNX">pic.twitter.com/7EA2irWjNX</a></p>
  447. <p>&mdash; Lindbergh Farias (@lindberghfarias) <a href="https://twitter.com/lindberghfarias/status/1977441684871897100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
  448. <p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
  449. <p>A website has also been created which urges members of the public to sign to add their voice to the discussion. When translated into English, the website states, “help us pressure Congress to approve our bill, which doubles the collection of bets from 12% to 24%.”</p>
  450. <h2><span id="brazilsonline_gambling_tax_proposal_comes_same_year_the_market_sees_regulation-2">Brazil&#8217;s online gambling tax proposal comes same year the market sees regulation</span></h2>
  451. <p>This comes in the same year that Brazil officially launched its regulated betting and online gambling market, with this having taken place at the very beginning of the year.</p>
  452. <p>The <a href="https://readwrite.com/brazil-responsible-gaming-body-takes-aim-at-proposed-betting-tax-hike/">online gambling market in Brazil</a> is one which is said to have been experiencing significant growth in recent times, with customers showing a growing interest. According to <a href="https://www.statista.com/outlook/amo/gambling/brazil?srsltid=AfmBOooFqRs3yxCcH4SX--_LmAiw-E82uWdIJC_gS01EhuO4Ai-ip2U6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Statista</a>, the number of users in the gambling market is expected to grow to 11.1 million by 2030.</p>
  453. <p>On the newly proposed bill website, the text explains how online betting has become very popular in the country because of the ease and practicality of betting, along with the ‘massive volume of advertisements.’</p>
  454. <p>When explaining why the bill centers around a higher tax, the website states three reasons which include aiming to reduce ‘the gambling epidemic’ in the country, as well as the impact on health and the economy, and so the country has more resources to invest.</p>
  455. <p>Earlier in the year, there were discussions around potentially increasing <a href="https://readwrite.com/brazilian-institute-responsible-gaming-opposes-raising-taxes-sports-betting/">taxes on sports betting.</a> At the time, the Brazilian Institute of Responsible Gaming (IBJR) argued against this as they stated that it would create an &#8216;unsustainable&#8217; scenario.</p>
  456. <p><b><i>Featured Image: Screenshot via X</i></b><a href="https://x.com/lindberghfarias/status/1977441684871897100?t=xEhmv22I82D78VZ7KNT7kg&amp;s=19"><b><i> post</i></b></a></p>
  457. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/brazil-bill-proposes-double-gambling-taxes-24/">Brazilian bill proposes to double gambling taxes to 24%</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  458. ]]></content:encoded>
  462. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Black-background-with-a-vertical-social-media-video-in-the-middle-from-Brazilian-congressman-Lindbergh-Farias-900x600.png" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  463. <item>
  464. <title>Dutch regulator, Ksa, warns of growth in illegal online gambling market</title>
  465. <link>https://readwrite.com/dutch-regulator-ksa-warns-growth-illegal-online-gambling-market/</link>
  467. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sophie Atkinson]]></dc:creator>
  468. <pubDate>Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:29:36 +0000</pubDate>
  469. <category><![CDATA[Gambling]]></category>
  470. <category><![CDATA[illegal gambling]]></category>
  471. <category><![CDATA[Netherlands]]></category>
  472. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541240</guid>
  473.  
  474. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="188" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/psjoQgfjS5ClwTYjcsjFDw-300x188.webp" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="A photograph of the Netherlands flag prominently displayed in the foreground, with its distinctive horizontal stripes of red, white, and blue fabric rippling gently. The flag is positioned on a stand or held at an angle, creating depth and drawing the viewer&#039;s eye to its vibrant colors. Behind the flag, slightly out of focus, a casino gambling table is visible with green felt surface, poker chips scattered across it. Dutch Ksa warns of growth in illegal online gambling market" style="width:100%;height:62.5%;max-width:1280px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/psjoQgfjS5ClwTYjcsjFDw-300x188.webp 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/psjoQgfjS5ClwTYjcsjFDw-900x563.webp 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/psjoQgfjS5ClwTYjcsjFDw-256x160.webp 256w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/psjoQgfjS5ClwTYjcsjFDw.webp 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  475. <p>The Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (Ksa), has warned that the illegal online gambling market is continuing to grow. This comes&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/dutch-regulator-ksa-warns-growth-illegal-online-gambling-market/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">Dutch regulator, Ksa, warns of growth in illegal online gambling market</span></a></p>
  476. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/dutch-regulator-ksa-warns-growth-illegal-online-gambling-market/">Dutch regulator, Ksa, warns of growth in illegal online gambling market</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  477. ]]></description>
  478. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="188" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/psjoQgfjS5ClwTYjcsjFDw-300x188.webp" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="A photograph of the Netherlands flag prominently displayed in the foreground, with its distinctive horizontal stripes of red, white, and blue fabric rippling gently. The flag is positioned on a stand or held at an angle, creating depth and drawing the viewer&#039;s eye to its vibrant colors. Behind the flag, slightly out of focus, a casino gambling table is visible with green felt surface, poker chips scattered across it. Dutch Ksa warns of growth in illegal online gambling market" style="width:100%;height:62.5%;max-width:1280px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/psjoQgfjS5ClwTYjcsjFDw-300x188.webp 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/psjoQgfjS5ClwTYjcsjFDw-900x563.webp 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/psjoQgfjS5ClwTYjcsjFDw-256x160.webp 256w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/psjoQgfjS5ClwTYjcsjFDw.webp 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>The Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (Ksa), has warned that the illegal online gambling market is continuing to grow.</p>
  479. <p>This comes after the Ksa states the growth of the legal online gambling market appears to be stagnating. The number of players is reported to be increasing, but the gross game result of the legal market is lagging behind.</p>
  480. <p>In the first half of 2025, the gross game result was €600 million ($693 million) while this figure was 16% higher six months earlier, at €697 million ($806 million). The KSA suggests this is partly caused by the introduction of new rules to better protect players, with these including a deposit limit.</p>
  481. <p>Despite this, it’s believed that 94% of players gamble exclusively with legal operators. While this is a high figure, the regulatory board has said that players could be &#8220;moving to illegal supply due to the newly introduced rules for player protection.&#8221;</p>
  482. <p>The regulator explains that this is a worrying development, as players on the illegal market are less protected.</p>
  483. <h2><span id="ksa_report_how_many_people_are_gambling_in_the_netherlands-2">Ksa report: How many people are gambling in the Netherlands?</span></h2>
  484. <p>The <a href="https://readwrite.com/dutch-ksa-warns-online-casino-after-ads-appeared-on-homework-website/">gambling authority</a>, in its <a href="https://kansspelautoriteit.nl/nieuws/2025/oktober/monitoringsrapportage-najaar-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">autumn report</a>, shared that the number of accounts played per month has increased. In the last half of 2024, this averaged 1.18 million accounts. In the first half of 2025, this number has risen to 1.29 million. On average, 7.1% of accounts are new.</p>
  485. <p>The <a href="https://readwrite.com/dutch-gambling-authority-ksa-removes-illegal-gambling-apps/">introduction of new rules</a> at the end of last year could be one of the reasons why there has been an increase. A player, however, can have multiple accounts so the number of accounts isn’t exclusively equal to the number of people gambling.</p>
  486. <p>Since the protective measures have been brought in, the average player&#8217;s monthly loss has &#8216;dropped substantially.&#8217; &#8220;Where the average loss per player at the end of 2024 was still €146 per month, that is €119 per month at the beginning of 2025,&#8221; the regulator said.</p>
  487. <p><b><i>Featured Image: AI-generated via Ideogram</i></b><b><i></i></b></p>
  488. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/dutch-regulator-ksa-warns-growth-illegal-online-gambling-market/">Dutch regulator, Ksa, warns of growth in illegal online gambling market</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  489. ]]></content:encoded>
  493. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/psjoQgfjS5ClwTYjcsjFDw-900x563.webp" width="750" height="469"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  494. <item>
  495. <title>Wolverhampton man jailed for using leaked data for gambling</title>
  496. <link>https://readwrite.com/wolverhampton-man-jailed-leaked-data-gambling/</link>
  498. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Joel Loynds]]></dc:creator>
  499. <pubDate>Tue, 14 Oct 2025 10:50:46 +0000</pubDate>
  500. <category><![CDATA[Betting]]></category>
  501. <category><![CDATA[crime]]></category>
  502. <category><![CDATA[illegal gambling]]></category>
  503. <category><![CDATA[United Kingdom]]></category>
  504. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541260</guid>
  505.  
  506. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/west-midlands-police-shot-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Wolverhampton man, Ludek Fiurasek, was jailed for using leaked data for gambling." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/west-midlands-police-shot-300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/west-midlands-police-shot-900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/west-midlands-police-shot-240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/west-midlands-police-shot.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  507. <p>A man who accessed other people&#8217;s private data for use on gambling sites has been jailed in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom.&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/wolverhampton-man-jailed-leaked-data-gambling/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">Wolverhampton man jailed for using leaked data for gambling</span></a></p>
  508. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/wolverhampton-man-jailed-leaked-data-gambling/">Wolverhampton man jailed for using leaked data for gambling</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  509. ]]></description>
  510. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/west-midlands-police-shot-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Wolverhampton man, Ludek Fiurasek, was jailed for using leaked data for gambling." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/west-midlands-police-shot-300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/west-midlands-police-shot-900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/west-midlands-police-shot-240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/west-midlands-police-shot.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>A man who accessed other people&#8217;s private data for use on gambling sites has been jailed in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom. Between 2018 and 2022, Ludek Fiurasek, 29, used leaked details from other <a href="https://readwrite.com/bragg-unable-to-say-who-hit-it-with-a-cyberattack/">cyberattacks</a> to sign up to casino websites and gamble. He&#8217;s also been found guilty of paying for car parts and a games console using this method.</p>
  511. <p>During the investigation, police discovered that Fiurasek had done this more than 800 times, with over 30 different lists of emails and passwords. On Monday, October 6, he was sentenced to three years and four months in prison, after the court case had kicked off in December of last year.</p>
  512. <p>In the <a href="https://readwrite.com/police-crackdown-birmingham-gambling-dens/">West Midlands Police</a> <a href="https://www.westmidlands.police.uk/news/west-midlands/news/news/2025/october/wolverhampton-man-jailed-following-major-cybercrime-investigation/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">press release</a>, they detail what he was found guilty of:</p>
  513. <ul>
  514. <li>Six counts of fraud by false representation</li>
  515. <li>One of possessing an article for use in fraud</li>
  516. <li>One of unauthorised computer access with the intent to commit other offences</li>
  517. </ul>
  518. <h2><span id="protect_yourself_from_leaks-2">Protect yourself from leaks</span></h2>
  519. <p>Cybercrimes like this are rampant in 2025. With so many different methods of accessing accounts now available, it&#8217;s always recommended that you use two-factor authentication. While some official and licensed gambling websites will throw up a red flag, as we&#8217;ve previously reported, a lot of gambling happens with offshore or unregulated websites.</p>
  520. <p>As such, protections just aren&#8217;t available in the same way, either due to a lack of care or just not being implemented due to the nature of the business.</p>
  521. <p>While it&#8217;s likely that Fiurasek acquired the details from various dumps that make their way online, if you want to check if accounts you own have appeared in leaks, you can use &#8220;<a href="https://haveibeenpwned.com/">Have I Been Pwned</a>&#8220;. It&#8217;s also recommended by the police in the press release. This will scan its repository of leaks and email breaches to see if your accounts have been affected in any capacity.</p>
  522. <p><em>Featured image: West Midlands Police</em></p>
  523. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/wolverhampton-man-jailed-leaked-data-gambling/">Wolverhampton man jailed for using leaked data for gambling</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  524. ]]></content:encoded>
  528. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/west-midlands-police-shot-900x600.jpg" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  529. <item>
  530. <title>Three plead guilty in court in illegal Sheriff Lopez gambling ring case</title>
  531. <link>https://readwrite.com/three-plead-guilty-illegal-sheriff-lopez-gambling-ring-case/</link>
  533. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Joel Loynds]]></dc:creator>
  534. <pubDate>Tue, 14 Oct 2025 09:47:57 +0000</pubDate>
  535. <category><![CDATA[Gambling]]></category>
  536. <category><![CDATA[crime]]></category>
  537. <category><![CDATA[Florida]]></category>
  538. <category><![CDATA[illegal gambling]]></category>
  539. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541214</guid>
  540.  
  541. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/lopez-court-case--300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Three plead guilty in court in illegal Sheriff Lopez gambling ring case. Sheldon Wetherholt and Sharon Fedrick both pleaded guilty and signed plea agreements in Lake County court." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/lopez-court-case--300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/lopez-court-case--900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/lopez-court-case--240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/lopez-court-case-.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  542. <p>The ongoing case relating to Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez and the illegal gambling ring he was allegedly involved in&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/three-plead-guilty-illegal-sheriff-lopez-gambling-ring-case/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">Three plead guilty in court in illegal Sheriff Lopez gambling ring case</span></a></p>
  543. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/three-plead-guilty-illegal-sheriff-lopez-gambling-ring-case/">Three plead guilty in court in illegal Sheriff Lopez gambling ring case</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  544. ]]></description>
  545. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/lopez-court-case--300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Three plead guilty in court in illegal Sheriff Lopez gambling ring case. Sheldon Wetherholt and Sharon Fedrick both pleaded guilty and signed plea agreements in Lake County court." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/lopez-court-case--300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/lopez-court-case--900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/lopez-court-case--240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/lopez-court-case-.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>The <a href="https://readwrite.com/suspended-osceola-sheriff-marcos-lopez-other-florida-illegal-casinos/">ongoing case</a> relating to <a href="https://readwrite.com/florida-sheriff-marcos-lopez-arrested-casino-raids-illegal-gambling/">Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez</a> and the illegal gambling ring he was allegedly involved in has gotten two new guilty pleas. After weeks of court cases and <a href="https://readwrite.com/businesswoman-sheriff-marcos-lopez-casino-case-china/">investigation</a>, Sheldon Wetherholt and Sharon Fedrick both <a href="https://www.wesh.com/article/alleged-casino-manager-plea-deal-osceola-county-gambling-case/69015747" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pleaded guilty</a> and signed plea agreements in Lake County court.</p>
  546. <p>Fedrick pleaded guilty to paying bills related to the gambling ring, and Wetherholt was convicted for his crimes, facing 364 days in jail at a maximum under his plea deal. As with others in the ordeal, he has pleaded no contest to charges relating to racketeering and conspiring to commit racketeering.</p>
  547. <p>Wetherholt&#8217;s role within the gambling ring was to secure property leases and keep up with utility services for the casinos that were connected. The Eclipse, one of the casinos, is suspected to have been under Lopez&#8217;s protection.</p>
  548. <p>However, as he&#8217;s entered a plea deal, he won&#8217;t face the maximum 30-year sentence per charge. Instead, it&#8217;s likely he&#8217;ll spend a maximum of 12 months in county jail. Fedrick&#8217;s is a little stricter, with up to 60 months in prison for her crimes.</p>
  549. <h2><span id="third_member_of_lopez_gambling_ring_pleads_guilty-2">Third member of Lopez gambling ring pleads guilty</span></h2>
  550. <p>Another member of the operation, Carol Cote, was in court last week, where she also pleaded guilty. It&#8217;s been recommended to give her the three-to twelve-month sentencing that Wetherholt has been given. Cote could be a major player in Lopez&#8217;s presumed downfall in court, as part of the deal was a promise to testify.</p>
  551. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">
  552. <p lang="en" dir="ltr">HAPPENING NOW: Another co-defendant of suspended Osceola Co. Sheriff Marcos Lopez has agreed to plead guilty to racketeering charges. Sheldon Wetherholt joins Carol Cote in pleading guilty.  More tonight at 4 <a href="https://twitter.com/news6wkmg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@news6wkmg</a> <a href="https://t.co/jlKgdcWhLS">pic.twitter.com/jlKgdcWhLS</a></p>
  553. <p>&mdash; Mike Valente (@ValenteReports) <a href="https://twitter.com/ValenteReports/status/1977800152359334304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
  554. <p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
  555. <p>It isn&#8217;t looking positive for the ex-cop, as not only are there now three guilty pleas, but a 255-page affidavit filled to the brim with records about the operation. This document contains further information from one of the central individuals from the criminal enterprise, Krishna Deokaran. Released last month to those involved, it also contains financial records, interviews, and messages.</p>
  556. <p>Lopez has so far pleaded not guilty when in court, and is next expected in November for his trial.</p>
  557. <p><em>Featured image: <a href="https://www.lcso.org/inmate-search/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lake County Sheriff’s Office</a></em></p>
  558. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/three-plead-guilty-illegal-sheriff-lopez-gambling-ring-case/">Three plead guilty in court in illegal Sheriff Lopez gambling ring case</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  559. ]]></content:encoded>
  563. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/lopez-court-case--900x600.jpg" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  564. <item>
  565. <title>Ho-Chunk Nation announces $610M financing secured for Beloit casino resort</title>
  566. <link>https://readwrite.com/ho-chunk-nation-announces-610m-financing-beloit-casino-resort/</link>
  568. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sophie Atkinson]]></dc:creator>
  569. <pubDate>Tue, 14 Oct 2025 09:16:19 +0000</pubDate>
  570. <category><![CDATA[Casino]]></category>
  571. <category><![CDATA[tribes]]></category>
  572. <category><![CDATA[Wisconsin]]></category>
  573. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=541186</guid>
  574.  
  575. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Ho-Chunk-Nation-announces-610M-financing-secured-for-Beloit-casino-resort-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Rendering image of a casino-style building outside, with trees in front. Ho-Chunk Nation announces $610M financing secured for Beloit casino resort" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Ho-Chunk-Nation-announces-610M-financing-secured-for-Beloit-casino-resort-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Ho-Chunk-Nation-announces-610M-financing-secured-for-Beloit-casino-resort-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Ho-Chunk-Nation-announces-610M-financing-secured-for-Beloit-casino-resort-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Ho-Chunk-Nation-announces-610M-financing-secured-for-Beloit-casino-resort.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  576. <p>A Wisconsin-based tribe has just closed a new financing transaction, with $610 million secured which will be used to finance&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/ho-chunk-nation-announces-610m-financing-beloit-casino-resort/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">Ho-Chunk Nation announces $610M financing secured for Beloit casino resort</span></a></p>
  577. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/ho-chunk-nation-announces-610m-financing-beloit-casino-resort/">Ho-Chunk Nation announces $610M financing secured for Beloit casino resort</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  578. ]]></description>
  579. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Ho-Chunk-Nation-announces-610M-financing-secured-for-Beloit-casino-resort-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Rendering image of a casino-style building outside, with trees in front. Ho-Chunk Nation announces $610M financing secured for Beloit casino resort" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Ho-Chunk-Nation-announces-610M-financing-secured-for-Beloit-casino-resort-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Ho-Chunk-Nation-announces-610M-financing-secured-for-Beloit-casino-resort-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Ho-Chunk-Nation-announces-610M-financing-secured-for-Beloit-casino-resort-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Ho-Chunk-Nation-announces-610M-financing-secured-for-Beloit-casino-resort.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>A Wisconsin-based tribe has just closed a new financing transaction, with $610 million secured which will be used to finance the construction of a flagship casino resort in Beloit.</p>
  580. <p>The <a href="https://readwrite.com/ho-chunk-nation-tribal-lawsuits-kalshi-sports-betting-contracts/">Ho-Chunk Nation</a> (HCN) is a federally recognized sovereign Tribal nation which has 7,766 enrolled members. Its headquarters are in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, and the Nation already owns and operates six gaming facilities under its brand. The current locations are in Black River Falls, Wisconsin Dells, Wittenberg, Tomah, and Nekoosa.</p>
  581. <p>Now, it has been announced that KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc successfully closed a new financing transaction for Ho-Chunk Nation of Wisconsin to the tune of $610 million. The major figure consists of a $305 million Revolving Credit Facility and a $305 million Delayed Draw Term Loan.</p>
  582. <p>It’s in combination with $95 million of equity that the credit facilities will be used in the construction of the soon-to-be flagship resort in the city which is located along the Rock River.</p>
  583. <h2><span id="what_will_the_all-new_beloit_casino_resort_be_like-2">What will the all-new Beloit casino resort be like?</span></h2>
  584. <p>The casino, by the HCN, will aim to be a destination-style resort, with over 1,500 slot machines and 40 table games. It will be situated in the east of the city, between Willowbrook Road I-90.</p>
  585. <p><iframe title="Beloit&#039;s Ho-Chunk casino wins final approval" width="750" height="422" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Hrv5ongWyPM?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
  586. <p>There will also be a 312-room hotel with a rooftop lounge, numerous food and beverage outlets, along with a 2,000-seat convention center and a parking garage.</p>
  587. <p>The construction has already begun, with this having first taken place in October 2024. It’s expected that the casino will open in September 2026, followed by the hotel and convention center in September 2027.</p>
  588. <p>Once complete, the venue will be another under the Ho-Chunk Nation brand with the initial proposal having been approved by the <a href="https://readwrite.com/california-tribes-blocked-suing-cardrooms-state-rights/">U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs</a> back in 2022. The original idea also included a water park, but this doesn&#8217;t appear to be in the current plans.</p>
  589. <p>Currently, one of the largest casinos by HCN is the one in Wisconsin Dells which is reported to be <a href="https://www.gamingdirectory.com/showproperty.cfm?PropertyIdList=14700&amp;PlaceID=304&amp;NoTempValues=1&amp;Type=cor&amp;PGID=4" target="_blank" rel="noopener">94,480 in square footage</a>, with 1,541 gaming machines and 36 table games. The property also has six restaurants, an entertainment venue, and 302 hotel rooms.</p>
  590. <p><b><i>Featured Image:<span class="Apple-converted-space"> Credit to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CityofBeloit/posts/pfbid02NFD72pvbS19gcqWMoVjuC73k1RanYrmTWkT2675sihKEeXqGwbonMuLgDrpiqNJKl">City of Beloit, Wisconsin &#8211; Government on Facebook</a></span></i></b><b><i></i></b></p>
  591. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/ho-chunk-nation-announces-610m-financing-beloit-casino-resort/">Ho-Chunk Nation announces $610M financing secured for Beloit casino resort</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  592. ]]></content:encoded>
  596. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Ho-Chunk-Nation-announces-610M-financing-secured-for-Beloit-casino-resort-900x600.png" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  597. <item>
  598. <title>Washington Gambling Commission issues cease and desist to Victory’s Auction Pro</title>
  599. <link>https://readwrite.com/washington-gambling-commission-issues-cease-and-desist-victorys-auction-pro-calcutta-billiards/</link>
  601. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rachael Davies]]></dc:creator>
  602. <pubDate>Mon, 13 Oct 2025 15:51:29 +0000</pubDate>
  603. <category><![CDATA[Gambling]]></category>
  604. <category><![CDATA[illegal gambling]]></category>
  605. <category><![CDATA[Washington]]></category>
  606. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=540909</guid>
  607.  
  608. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Billiards-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Billiards table. Washington Gambling Commission issues cease and desist to Victory’s Auction Pro" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Billiards-300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Billiards-900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Billiards-240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Billiards.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  609. <p>The Washington State Gambling Commission has issued a cease and desist notice to unlicensed Calcutta billiards operator Victory’s Auction Pro.&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/washington-gambling-commission-issues-cease-and-desist-victorys-auction-pro-calcutta-billiards/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">Washington Gambling Commission issues cease and desist to Victory’s Auction Pro</span></a></p>
  610. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/washington-gambling-commission-issues-cease-and-desist-victorys-auction-pro-calcutta-billiards/">Washington Gambling Commission issues cease and desist to Victory’s Auction Pro</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  611. ]]></description>
  612. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Billiards-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Billiards table. Washington Gambling Commission issues cease and desist to Victory’s Auction Pro" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Billiards-300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Billiards-900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Billiards-240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Billiards.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>The Washington State Gambling Commission has issued a cease and desist notice to unlicensed Calcutta billiards operator Victory’s Auction Pro.</p>
  613. <p>Victory&#8217;s Auction Pro is alleged to be an organization running illegal Calcutta billiards tournaments in Washington. The Washington State Gambling Commission started the process of blocking its operations with <a href="https://wsgc.wa.gov/news/2025/calcutta-billiards-tournaments-and-victorys-auction-pro" target="_blank" rel="noopener">an initial cease and desist notice</a> on October 10.</p>
  614. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">
  615. <p lang="en" dir="ltr">Calcutta billiards tournaments and Victory’s Auction Pro<a href="https://t.co/xYEgo6R96n">https://t.co/xYEgo6R96n</a></p>
  616. <p>&mdash; WA Gambling Comm (@WAGambling) <a href="https://twitter.com/WAGambling/status/1976722381663085021?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
  617. <p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
  618. <h2><span id="what_is_calcutta_billiards-2">What is Calcutta billiards?</span></h2>
  619. <p>The organization is thought to have been running auction-pool wagering games as part of a wider tournament. In Calcutta billiards, the tournament prize pot and the Calcutta pot are separate pots of differing amounts.</p>
  620. <p>The Calcutta refers to a side pot where players are betting money on the game in the hopes of receiving more than what they put in. That means bettors can bid on other players, with the highest bidder winning the rights to that player. Payouts are then calculated based on the player’s performance in the tournament.</p>
  621. <p>These types of Calcutta wagering systems are illegal in Washington State, both for Victory’s Auction Pro and any participants – even if they don&#8217;t know they are wagering illegally. The punishment for <a href="https://readwrite.com/illegal-gambling-third-us-wagering-aga/">illegal gambling</a> in the state can range from a gross misdemeanor to a class B felony, with penalties ranging from one to 10 years in prison and fines of between $5,000 and $20,000.</p>
  622. <p>The investigation from the Washington State Gambling Commission also claims that Victory’s Auction Pro is advertising its Calcutta billiards tournaments online and on social media via Facebook and other platforms. That also puts Victory’s Auction Pro in violation of a separate law, transmitting gambling information over the internet, which would be a class C felony if found guilty. The punishment for this charge could be as much as an additional prison sentence of up to five years and fines of up to $10,000.</p>
  623. <p>Washington&#8217;s gambling laws have recently been under closer inspection after <a href="https://readwrite.com/us-supreme-court-leaves-washington-tribal-gaming-laws-maverick-runitonetime/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a dispute between the state and Washington tribes</a>.</p>
  624. <p><em><strong>Featured image: Pexels</strong></em></p>
  625. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/washington-gambling-commission-issues-cease-and-desist-victorys-auction-pro-calcutta-billiards/">Washington Gambling Commission issues cease and desist to Victory’s Auction Pro</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  626. ]]></content:encoded>
  630. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Billiards-900x600.jpg" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  631. <item>
  632. <title>Massachusetts files brief against Robinhood ahead of Kalshi legal battle</title>
  633. <link>https://readwrite.com/massachusetts-files-brief-against-robinhood/</link>
  635. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rachael Davies]]></dc:creator>
  636. <pubDate>Mon, 13 Oct 2025 14:31:55 +0000</pubDate>
  637. <category><![CDATA[Gambling]]></category>
  638. <category><![CDATA[Massachusetts]]></category>
  639. <category><![CDATA[prediction markets]]></category>
  640. <category><![CDATA[Robinhood]]></category>
  641. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=540863</guid>
  642.  
  643. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Massachusetts-investigates-Robinhood-over-launch-of-prediction-markets-hub-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Massachusetts investigated Robinhood over launch of prediction markets hub. They&#039;re now filing a brief against them. A smartphone displays the Robinhood app’s prediction markets hub for Men’s College Basketball, showing matchups, dates, and percentage odds for each team. The background features a faint outline of a basketball court, and the Robinhood logo is visible at the bottom." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Massachusetts-investigates-Robinhood-over-launch-of-prediction-markets-hub-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Massachusetts-investigates-Robinhood-over-launch-of-prediction-markets-hub-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Massachusetts-investigates-Robinhood-over-launch-of-prediction-markets-hub-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Massachusetts-investigates-Robinhood-over-launch-of-prediction-markets-hub.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  644. <p>The state of Massachusetts has filed a brief in opposition to financial services company Robinhood filing its own motion. After&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/massachusetts-files-brief-against-robinhood/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">Massachusetts files brief against Robinhood ahead of Kalshi legal battle</span></a></p>
  645. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/massachusetts-files-brief-against-robinhood/">Massachusetts files brief against Robinhood ahead of Kalshi legal battle</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  646. ]]></description>
  647. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Massachusetts-investigates-Robinhood-over-launch-of-prediction-markets-hub-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="Massachusetts investigated Robinhood over launch of prediction markets hub. They&#039;re now filing a brief against them. A smartphone displays the Robinhood app’s prediction markets hub for Men’s College Basketball, showing matchups, dates, and percentage odds for each team. The background features a faint outline of a basketball court, and the Robinhood logo is visible at the bottom." style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Massachusetts-investigates-Robinhood-over-launch-of-prediction-markets-hub-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Massachusetts-investigates-Robinhood-over-launch-of-prediction-markets-hub-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Massachusetts-investigates-Robinhood-over-launch-of-prediction-markets-hub-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Massachusetts-investigates-Robinhood-over-launch-of-prediction-markets-hub.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>The state of Massachusetts has filed a brief in opposition to financial services company <a href="https://readwrite.com/massachusetts-investigates-robinhood-prediction-markets-hub/">Robinhood</a> filing its own motion.</p>
  648. <p>After Robinhood filed a motion for a preliminary injunction, Massachusetts filed an opposing brief in response. The company had <a href="https://readwrite.com/robinhood-files-lawsuit-against-massachusetts-gaming-commission-and-attorney-general/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">asked a judge last month</a> to grant it an injunction against the state bodies to block them “from enforcing preempted Massachusetts law against Robinhood for its facilitation of transactions involving sports-related event contracts.”</p>
  649. <p>Now, Massachusetts has formally responded, arguing that Robinhood&#8217;s claim that sports betting has been legalized nationwide.</p>
  650. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">
  651. <p lang="en" dir="ltr">In a preview of its anticipated legal argument against Kalshi, Massachusetts has filed its brief in opposition to Robinhood&#39;s motion for preliminary injunction. Here is its argument against federal preemption: <a href="https://t.co/Bebt2iTa5y">pic.twitter.com/Bebt2iTa5y</a></p>
  652. <p>&mdash; Daniel Wallach (@WALLACHLEGAL) <a href="https://twitter.com/WALLACHLEGAL/status/1977064129740587103?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
  653. <p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
  654. <p>&#8220;Robinhood’s smoke-and-mirrors arguments otherwise fail upon inspection, as two federal district courts have recently held,&#8221; reads the filing, <a href="https://x.com/WALLACHLEGAL/status/1977064129740587103?t=9vqbKRRfAm450GAuRgWblQ&amp;s=19" target="_blank" rel="noopener">as reported by sports betting lawyer David Wallach</a>.</p>
  655. <h2><span id="robinhood_is_not_an_isolated_case-2">Robinhood is not an isolated case</span></h2>
  656. <p>The <a href="https://readwrite.com/crypto-com-bid-sports-betting-rejected-nevada-judge/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">recent Crypto.com decision</a> was referenced in support of the state&#8217;s argument, where the company was blocked from continuing to run sports bets in Nevada. This is part of a much wider push to regulate sports event contracts that seek to emulate sports betting.</p>
  657. <p>While Kalshi has been working with regulatory bodies to launch sports-related services, the precedent doesn&#8217;t necessarily extend to all similar companies, as evidenced by Crypto.com and now potentially again by Robinhood. Massachusetts state bodies argue that there is repeated legal reinforcement &#8220;going back decades&#8221; that states have the right and responsibility to determine what forms of gambling are allowed.</p>
  658. <p>&#8220;Robinhood argues that these laws were impliedly repealed when, under its narrative, Congress expanded the CEA to include swaps in 2010,&#8221; reads the filing. &#8220;But this Court does not imply repeal of a federal law, let alone multiple federal laws.&#8221;</p>
  659. <p>With Massachusetts gearing up to <a href="https://readwrite.com/massachusetts-gears-up-to-ban-sweepstakes-casinos-as-sgla-pushes-back/">launch a similar legal battle against Kalshi</a>, this motion against Robinhood offers an example of the kinds of arguments the state is preparing to launch to guard against what it deems to be unlicensed sports betting. This comes after a wider crackdown on <a href="https://readwrite.com/massachusettss-third-online-gambling-bill-of-2025-seeks-to-limit-sweepstakes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">unlicensed gaming across the state</a>.</p>
  660. <p><em><strong>Featured image: Robinhood</strong></em></p>
  661. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/massachusetts-files-brief-against-robinhood/">Massachusetts files brief against Robinhood ahead of Kalshi legal battle</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  662. ]]></content:encoded>
  666. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Massachusetts-investigates-Robinhood-over-launch-of-prediction-markets-hub-900x600.png" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  667. <item>
  668. <title>New York councilman Anand Shah indicted on 18 charges related to illegal gambling</title>
  669. <link>https://readwrite.com/new-york-councilman-indicted-18-charges-illegal-gambling/</link>
  671. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rachael Davies]]></dc:creator>
  672. <pubDate>Mon, 13 Oct 2025 13:08:57 +0000</pubDate>
  673. <category><![CDATA[Gambling]]></category>
  674. <category><![CDATA[crime]]></category>
  675. <category><![CDATA[illegal gambling]]></category>
  676. <category><![CDATA[New Jersey]]></category>
  677. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=540812</guid>
  678.  
  679. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/New-York-councilman-indicted-on-18-charges-related-to-illegal-gambling-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/New-York-councilman-indicted-on-18-charges-related-to-illegal-gambling-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/New-York-councilman-indicted-on-18-charges-related-to-illegal-gambling-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/New-York-councilman-indicted-on-18-charges-related-to-illegal-gambling-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/New-York-councilman-indicted-on-18-charges-related-to-illegal-gambling.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  680. <p>A councilman for New York&#8217;s Prospect Park has been indicted on 18 charges related to an illegal gambling ring. Council&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/new-york-councilman-indicted-18-charges-illegal-gambling/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">New York councilman Anand Shah indicted on 18 charges related to illegal gambling</span></a></p>
  681. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/new-york-councilman-indicted-18-charges-illegal-gambling/">New York councilman Anand Shah indicted on 18 charges related to illegal gambling</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  682. ]]></description>
  683. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/New-York-councilman-indicted-on-18-charges-related-to-illegal-gambling-300x200.png" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/New-York-councilman-indicted-on-18-charges-related-to-illegal-gambling-300x200.png 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/New-York-councilman-indicted-on-18-charges-related-to-illegal-gambling-900x600.png 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/New-York-councilman-indicted-on-18-charges-related-to-illegal-gambling-240x160.png 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/New-York-councilman-indicted-on-18-charges-related-to-illegal-gambling.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>A councilman for New York&#8217;s Prospect Park has been indicted on 18 charges related to an illegal gambling ring.</p>
  684. <p>Council President Anand Shah has been indicted on 18 charges related to allegedly participating in an illegal gambling ring, including several counts of money laundering and racketeering in the first degree and second degree charges of official misconduct, extortion, and third-degree tampering with public records.</p>
  685. <p>ReadWrite has seen indictment documents stating that Shah and the other co-conspirators “purposely or knowingly did conduct or participate directly or indirectly, in the conduct of the enterprise’s affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity”, and that planning this enterprise resulted in “the commission of crimes of violence and/or crimes of the first degree.”</p>
  686. <p>Shah is about to end his third term as a Democrat councilman, while currently seeking support for another three-year council term ahead of the general election on November 4. According to his attorney, Michael DeMarco, Shah intends to defend his innocence.</p>
  687. <figure id="attachment_540875" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-540875" style="width: 576px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-540875 size-full" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-10-13-135732.png" alt="Chart titled “Organized Crime Investigation” showing a hierarchy of individuals allegedly involved in an illegal gambling and money laundering network. The chart includes photos and names of key suspects, organized by roles such as leaders, partners, subagents, employees, and money launderers, with connecting lines illustrating relationships." width="576" height="773" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-10-13-135732.png 576w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-10-13-135732-224x300.png 224w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-10-13-135732-536x719.png 536w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-10-13-135732-119x160.png 119w" sizes="(max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-540875" class="wp-caption-text">Diagram released by investigators showing the hierarchy of suspects in an organized crime and illegal gambling ring tied to a New York councilman indicted on 18 charges. Credit: New Jersey Attorney General&#8217;s Office</figcaption></figure>
  688. <p>The councilman is scheduled to appear in front of state Superior Court Judge Ralph Amirata in Morristown on October 24 for his post-indictment arraignment, where he is expected to formally enter his plea. After being arrested back in April, Shah was held at the Morris County jail for seven weeks before being granted release by a judge.</p>
  689. <h2><span id="the_councilmans_alleged_involvement_in_the_illegal_gambling_ring-2">The councilman&#8217;s alleged involvement in the illegal gambling ring</span></h2>
  690. <p>The alleged illegal gambling ring is said to have hosted <a href="https://readwrite.com/cop-who-protected-mafia-gambling-dens-convicted-in-new-york/">unlicensed poker games</a> and used an overseas sportsbook to place unlicensed <a href="https://readwrite.com/gambling/betting/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sports bets</a>. These activities are alleged to have brought in hundreds of thousands of dollars, laundered through shell companies.</p>
  691. <p>Allegations have been brought against 42 defendants, including Shah and members of the Lucchese crime family. <a href="https://www.njoag.gov/ag-platkin-announces-charges-against-39-defendants-including-members-and-associates-of-the-lucchese-crime-family-for-racketeering-gambling-money-laundering-and-other-offenses/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A 78-page indictment document</a> outlines the complete charges against all the co-defendants.</p>
  692. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">
  693. <p lang="en" dir="ltr">Today we’ve charged 39 people, including a sitting councilman. The message is clear – we are bringing every resource to bear to crack down on violent criminals, including organized crime.</p>
  694. <p>If you break the law, if you hurt New Jersey, you will be brought to justice. <a href="https://t.co/AgjjlEOQgY">pic.twitter.com/AgjjlEOQgY</a></p>
  695. <p>&mdash; Attorney General Matt Platkin (@NewJerseyOAG) <a href="https://twitter.com/NewJerseyOAG/status/1910702872980828444?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
  696. <p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
  697. <p>In terms of what punishment Shah could face if found guilty, the second-degree misconduct charge along could result in a 10-year prison sentence, while others could lead to substantial fines.</p>
  698. <p>Other allegations levelled against Shah in the document include: claiming that the councilman “threatened to inflict bodily injury” on “multiple victims” owed money from the gambling activities; allegedly falsifying a financial disclosure statement; and not paying gross income taxes, a third-degree crime, for six straight years between April 2019 and 2025.</p>
  699. <p>In July, Shah <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AnandShahPP/posts/pfbid02ECzSQQKcP8NGswPjkNpCkTUHxEga8iFzAovCKas53WLDK8EqixfrHhn25HpsPBD3l?__cft__[0]=AZWyWGBkdZrUbZXLA0_ic6I-UDu-U1DVuhCAf6RG_79nDUgRzN8CkI1Isto9wU1RutdjpmzU4sJCv7u5d0qH5Dq8J_1wBoQiDWj5K7fkwfjdCY6BD2c8vNiC2E7hZnLOYXwYhLCdMtFV0rSZP7_Rdfbmxs-Xfwq6PVny7CFcRIa97SMvTFABuSbhgmoN3n5kZQA&amp;__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wrote on Facebook</a> that he had been released from Morris County Jail on May 30, following his detention since April 9, 2025. His Attorney Michael P. DeMarco, Esq. said in a statement at the time: &#8220;Mr. Shah is deeply grateful for the Appellate Division’s decision and eagerly anticipates his day in court, where he will vigorously defend against the State’s charges and clear his previously unblemished name and reputation.&#8221;</p>
  700. <p>UPDATED: <em>ReadWrite has obtained the indictment document from the New Jersey Attorney General&#8217;s Office and has provided additional information from the docket on October 15, 2025.</em></p>
  701. <p><em><strong>Featured image: Anand Shah via <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AnandShahPP/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a></strong></em></p>
  702. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/new-york-councilman-indicted-18-charges-illegal-gambling/">New York councilman Anand Shah indicted on 18 charges related to illegal gambling</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  703. ]]></content:encoded>
  707. <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" medium="image" type="image/jpeg" url="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/New-York-councilman-indicted-on-18-charges-related-to-illegal-gambling-900x600.png" width="750" height="500"><media:credit role="photographer" scheme="urn:ebu">Pexels</media:credit></media:content> </item>
  708. <item>
  709. <title>William Hill plans to close one in ten of its UK betting shops in 2026</title>
  710. <link>https://readwrite.com/william-hill-plans-close-one-in-ten-uk-betting-shops-2026/</link>
  712. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rachael Davies]]></dc:creator>
  713. <pubDate>Mon, 13 Oct 2025 12:06:18 +0000</pubDate>
  714. <category><![CDATA[Betting]]></category>
  715. <category><![CDATA[evoke]]></category>
  716. <category><![CDATA[United Kingdom]]></category>
  717. <category><![CDATA[william hill]]></category>
  718. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://readwrite.com/?p=540788</guid>
  719.  
  720. <description><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/William-Hill-street-locations-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="William Hill locations. William Hill plans to close one in ten of its UK betting shops in 2026" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/William-Hill-street-locations-300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/William-Hill-street-locations-900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/William-Hill-street-locations-240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/William-Hill-street-locations.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div>
  721. <p>The gambling group behind William Hill is planning to shut around one in ten of its betting shops across the&#8230; <a class="more-link" href="https://readwrite.com/william-hill-plans-close-one-in-ten-uk-betting-shops-2026/">Continue reading <span class="screen-reader-text">William Hill plans to close one in ten of its UK betting shops in 2026</span></a></p>
  722. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/william-hill-plans-close-one-in-ten-uk-betting-shops-2026/">William Hill plans to close one in ten of its UK betting shops in 2026</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
  723. ]]></description>
  724. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img width="300" height="200" src="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/William-Hill-street-locations-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="William Hill locations. William Hill plans to close one in ten of its UK betting shops in 2026" style="width:100%;height:66.67%;max-width:1200px;margin-bottom: 15px;" decoding="async" srcset="https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/William-Hill-street-locations-300x200.jpg 300w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/William-Hill-street-locations-900x600.jpg 900w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/William-Hill-street-locations-240x160.jpg 240w, https://readwrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/William-Hill-street-locations.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>The gambling group behind William Hill is planning to shut around one in ten of its betting shops across the UK in 2026.</p>
  725. <p>Evoke plc, which bought William Hill for 32 billion in 2022, is reportedly planning to close roughly one in ten of the chain&#8217;s betting shops in the new year. Even though the <a href="https://readwrite.com/evoke-sees-3-rise-in-revenue-in-first-half-of-2025/">company saw a 3% rise in revenue</a> in the first half of this year, it is facing heavy debts of £1.8 billion ($2.4 billion) against a market value of roughly £210 million ($280 million), while also preparing for expected tax rises following the Autumn Budget.</p>
  726. <p>The exact number of stores set to close has not yet been confirmed, but <a href="https://www.thetimes.com/business-money/companies/article/william-hill-owner-evoke-close-betting-shops-9hvfzz8gd" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Times</a> reports that one source claimed 120 of William Hill&#8217;s roughly 1,300 locations will be closed for good, while another put the number closer to 200. If the latter is true, that would result in a loss of around 1,500 jobs.</p>
  727. <h2><span id="william_hill_and_beyond_its_betting_shops-2">William Hill and beyond its betting shops</span></h2>
  728. <p>The news comes at a troubled moment for the UK gambling industry, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves expected to increase taxes in the Autumn Budget, following <a href="https://readwrite.com/labour-mps-raise-taxes-gambling-companies/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">major pressure from MPs</a>. For evoke plc in particular, the company&#8217;s share price has fallen by almost 30% over the past 12 months, while falling more than 83% over the past five years. Much of the debt noted above came about from the purchase of William Hill in 2022.</p>
  729. <p>The exact number of closures and the extent of action taken by evoke plc will seemingly depend on Reeves&#8217; budget, due to be announced on November 26. A spokesman for evoke told The Times that the company was “continuously reviewing and adapting our shop portfolio to ensure it aligns with our long-term strategy for sustainable, profitable growth,” while evaluating different scenarios ahead of the budget announcement.</p>
  730. <p>“As a regulated and licensed UK operator, we are also mindful of potential tax increases in the forthcoming budget on top of the rising costs,&#8221; said the spokesperson. “As part of our ongoing planning, we are assessing the potential impact of different tax scenarios on our UK operations. This includes the difficult but necessary consideration for further shop closures.”</p>
  731. <p>ReadWrite has contacted the press office at evoke plc for further comment.</p>
  732. <p><em><strong>Featured image: <a class="vNdLpe btTgYb" href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:William_Hill,_Cross_Street,_Wetherby_%2830th_July_2017%29.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-ved="0CBsQ7o4GahcKEwjolYbKgqGQAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQBA">Wikimedia Commons</a>, licensed under <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></strong></em></p>
  733. <p>The post <a href="https://readwrite.com/william-hill-plans-close-one-in-ten-uk-betting-shops-2026/">William Hill plans to close one in ten of its UK betting shops in 2026</a> appeared first on <a href="https://readwrite.com">ReadWrite</a>.</p>
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