Casino News Roundup for January 24: Global Gambling Industry Updates

The International Gaming Awards 2025 took place on Jan. 19 at the luxurious Intercontinental Hotel Barcelona. This glittering event celebrated the best talents within the gambling industry, showcasing a lengthy list of award recipients.  

We'd love to hear from attendees who received awards! Please share your experiences from ICE Barcelona along with any photos or videos you'd like featured.

Spencer “Big Ginger” Owen has once again secured his spot in Malta, winning the Malta52 package. Congratulations to Spencer for his remarkable achievement! 

Satellites are running daily for your chance to join him, with a new player winning their way to Malta every Sunday in our weekly final. A reminder: participants can win only one package.

Delasport has officially launched a new brand powered by its advanced sportsbook solution integrated with ProgressPlay’s eminent gaming platform. This partnership reinforces the commitment of both companies to innovation and excellence in delivering top-notch gaming experiences.  

Rosaire Cavallaro, VP of Business Development at Delasport, expressed excitement for expanding their partnership with ProgressPlay in the UK, highlighting their shared mission to redefine online gaming. 

ProgressPlay’s platform offers comprehensive services, including operations, CRM, gambling licenses, and payment processing, ensuring robust security measures and regulatory compliance.

Hawaii lawmakers have introduced multiple bills aiming to legalise online casino gaming and sports betting in the Aloha State, where all forms of gambling remain illegal. 

Key proposals include: 

• Bills HB 1308 and SB 1569: These aim to legalise sports betting and fantasy sports under the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, allowing at least four online platforms and imposing a 10% tax on adjusted gross receipts. 
• Senate Bill SB 1572: Introduced by Sen. Kim Decoite, this bill proposes a Hawaii State Sports Wagering Commission and allows both retail and online sports betting with a higher tax rate of 15% on AGR.
• Senate Bill SB 1507: Sponsored by Sen. Ron Kouchi, this bill would establish the Hawaii Lottery and Gaming Corporation, allowing for online gaming and games of skill, facilitating the inclusion of multi-state players. 

Even with these introductions, past legislative efforts to permit any form of gambling have faced significant challenges, making progression seem unlikely. 

The European Casino Association (ECA) extends congratulations to Bruna Szego on her appointment as Chair of the EU Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA). 

The ECA emphasises the importance of collaboration with regulators and industry leaders to combat financial crime in Europe and improve legislative measures surrounding anti-money laundering in gaming.

Metropolitan Gaming is thrilled to announce their recognition as Best Multiple Casino Operator and the award for Rising Star received by Anna Davies, Head of Compliance and Safer Gambling. 

These accolades reflect the dedication of their teams to providing exceptional experiences and promoting safer gambling initiatives.

Julia Weygandt, part of the Global Gaming Women initiative (GGW), shared her pride in the insights and discussions that took place during ICE Barcelona. 

She expressed gratitude to the panellists and attendees who contributed to the dynamic exchange of ideas. Julia emphasizes her commitment to fostering collaboration in the gaming industry as they look forward to 2025.