Recently, there have been quite a few new developments in the international gambling regulatory arena. The Australian Communications and Media Authority has banned another batch of illegal gambling websites, the National Council on Problem Gambling has appointed a new executive director, and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation has allocated funds to support typhoon disaster relief, while Hippos ATG and Intralot have also updated their operations. These changes reflect the ongoing adjustments in global regulation and business.
ACMA continues to crack down on illegal gambling operations
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued a ban on nine illegal gambling websites, noting that these sites do not have local licenses, so ACMA has asked internet service providers to directly block access. The named brands include Cashed, King Maker, and sites imitating WizBet and Next2Go. Did you know that since 2019, ACMA has blocked 1369 illegal websites, and since the implementation of new regulations in 2017, about 220 illegal services have exited the Australian market, with quite noticeable effects.
PAGCOR aids typhoon victims
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has allocated 32.85 million pesos (about $557,000) to help people affected by Typhoons Tino and Uwan. The typhoons caused severe damage, with several hundred people unfortunately killed and over 2.5 million families affected. PAGCOR used this money to purchase 31,500 relief packages, including food and daily necessities, with an additional 16,500 packages of supplies about to be dispatched. CEO Alejandro Tengco stated, "In the face of disaster, PAGCOR always stands out to support our compatriots, which is part of our national construction."
Corporate cooperation and personnel appointment updates
The newly established Hippos ATG has appointed Jussi Nurmi as Chief Operating Officer, who has 10 years of iGaming experience, previously working at Betsson and TonyBet. In April this year, Sweden's ATG and Finland's Suomen Hippos jointly established the company, which will operate under the ATG brand in Finland. Nurmi said, "I'm super excited to join Hippos ATG, helping to build a competitive gaming company in Finland." On the other hand, Intralot and the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery signed a new 10-year contract, effective next August, which will introduce the LotosX system, making Arkansas one of the first states in the US to try this technology. Lottery Executive Director Sharon Strong said, "Looking forward to continuing our cooperation, serving players and students."
NCPG completes leadership transition
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has appointed Heather Murrell as the new executive director, who has over 25 years of experience in public health and the nonprofit sector, previously serving as CEO of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Murrell will be responsible for strategic direction and project supervision, stating, "I am honored to join NCPG and continue to address gambling harm issues." The former executive director, Keith Whyte, stepped down in January after serving for over 25 years, marking a smooth transition.
