News

Vixio has upgraded its Technical Compliance Tool to streamline regulatory navigation for gambling operators entering new markets. The enhancement, launched in September 2024 and expanded this week, covers technical requirements across 36 regulated jurisdictions, including the UK, Malta, and Ontario. This development supports new casino operators by reducing compliance timelines from months to days, fostering faster market entry while upholding standards for player protection and operational integrity.

Regulatory approvals in South Africa and Canada signal accelerated market access for established operators entering new venues.

Two Shepherds Limited has launched Jackpot Lounge as its inaugural online casino platform following the acquisition of a full gaming licence from the Malta Gaming Authority. The Malta-based operator, powered by White Hat Gaming's platform-as-a-service solution, targets European players with a focus on progressive jackpots and responsible gaming features. This debut strengthens Malta's position as a hub for new entrants in the regulated iGaming sector, where over 300 active licences support a market valued at €1.5 billion annually.

Ontario's internet gaming sector has surpassed C$2 billion in total wagers since its regulated launch, underscoring the province's rapid maturation as a key North American iGaming hub. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), in collaboration with iGaming Ontario, reported this figure for the period from April 2022 through August 2025, highlighting sustained player engagement and operator compliance in a tightly controlled environment. This development reinforces Ontario's position as a model for regulated online casino ecosystems, attracting international operators while prioritizing consumer protection.

Ontario's AGCO granted fresh iGaming operator registrations, expanding regulated online casino access amid rising market maturity.

The Keurmerk Verantwoorde Affiliates (KVA), the Dutch association for responsible gambling affiliates, has introduced redesigned website pages detailing audits and certifications for its members. This initiative enhances transparency in the Netherlands' regulated iGaming market, where affiliates play a pivotal role in directing players to licensed operators. The update addresses calls from regulators and stakeholders for clearer identification of compliant marketing partners, strengthening player protection amid growing online casino activity.

Evolution AB has forged a strategic alliance with Gaming Arts LLC to adapt its flagship online slot titles for deployment on land-based casino floors, marking the live casino giant's inaugural venture into physical gaming environments. This partnership targets major regulated markets in Europe and Asia, where land-based operations remain a cornerstone of the iGaming ecosystem. The move addresses the convergence of digital and retail experiences, enabling operators to leverage proven online hits to increase foot traffic and revenue in brick-and-mortar venues.

Ontario's iGaming market welcomes new operator absolutebet, enhancing competition and player options in Canada's regulated digital landscape.

ThrillTech Limited has obtained a B2B gaming license from Peru's Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur), marking the software provider's initial foray into the Latin American regulated market. This approval, alongside regulatory certification in Brazil, enables the deployment of ThrillTech's proprietary player-funded jackpot solutions across the region. The development bolsters Peru's nascent iGaming ecosystem, which launched its regulated online framework in 2024, by introducing compliant, revenue-enhancing tools for local operators amid growing regional demand for innovative casino features.

Soft2Bet has launched Swiper, a pioneering online casino platform tailored for the Swedish market, integrating social media-inspired mechanics to enhance user engagement. The brand, powered by Soft2Bet's proprietary technology, holds a license from the Swedish Gambling Authority (Spelinspektionen), ensuring compliance with stringent local regulations. This debut marks Soft2Bet's continued expansion in regulated European markets, addressing Sweden's evolving iGaming landscape where channelisation rates for licensed operators remain a priority for regulators.

Regulatory enhancements in the UK and Malta prioritize responsible gambling and compliance, easing new operator entry while strengthening player protections.

Thailand’s new Prime Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, has firmly rejected casino legalization during his tenure, halting progress on the Entertainment Complex Bill. This decision, announced on September 11, 2025, reverses prior momentum toward regulated gaming in the kingdom, impacting potential new casino market entrants. The move underscores Thailand’s cautious stance on gambling amid concerns over tourism and diplomatic relations with China.

Hard Rock Casino Rockford, a prominent new casino in Illinois, has announced plans to expand its $300 million permanent facility with a hotel and additional amenities, marking a significant development for the region’s gaming market. The expansion, revealed one year after the casino’s launch in August 2024, aims to enhance its competitive position in the Illinois gaming landscape. This move underscores Hard Rock International’s commitment to growing its footprint in regulated U.S. markets.

New licensing approvals signal robust growth in regulated markets.

The New York Gaming Facility Location Board has scheduled a public hearing for Bally’s Bronx casino proposal on September 9, 2025, marking a critical step toward securing one of three downstate New York casino licenses. This development positions Bally’s as a frontrunner in a competitive process that could reshape New York’s gaming landscape. The hearing is part of the state’s rigorous evaluation to award licenses by December 31, 2025, unlocking significant economic potential for the region.

Glitnor Group, a prominent iGaming operator, has secured a €55 million ($64 million) financing facility from HG Vora Capital Management to fuel its mergers and acquisitions (M&A) strategy. This move strengthens Glitnor’s position in the competitive online casino market, enabling the company to pursue new brand launches and market expansions. The funding underscores the growing investor confidence in regulated iGaming markets and the potential for new casino ventures.