Asia
Experts Say Karnataka’s Proposed Online Gaming Ban is a Setback to Gaming Industry

A few weeks ago, the Karnataka State proposed a ban on online games involving betting and wagering, emphasising on “any act or risking money, or otherwise on the unknown result of an event including a game of skill”.
The state government said the bill will help keep youth from rural areas from being idle in cities and towns as they tend to become habitual gamblers.
Karnataka’s move to ban games involving skills could prove detrimental to the revenues of large gaming platforms such as Dream11. This is in contrast to existing gambling laws in India, such as the ones in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, that are dependent on chance, Puneet Bhasin, a Mumbai-based lawyer, said.
India categorises games into two main parts — games of skill and games of chance. While games of skill require players to possess analytical and decision-making capabilities, games of chance are based purely on luck.
Games like Dream11 and Mobile Premier League (MPL) offer skill-based games, where players use relevant data like career statistics, career form, strengths and weaknesses to choose sportspersons to include in their “fantasy team”, according to Tanmay Singh, litigation counsel at Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF).
Shivani Jha, Director of eSports Players Welfare Association, added that players are not risking money to win an uncertain event while playing skill-based games. “They are paying registration fees for an event with a controlled outcome because skill in involved. This must not be confused with wagering,” Jha added.
Karnataka is home to 91 gaming firms that collectively employ about 4000 people, according to data from Startup Business Academy.
“The move to pass the Karnataka Police (Amendment) Compliance Act, 2021 act a setback to the online skill gaming sunrise industry as well as to the state’s reputation of being a tech-hub and start-up capital,” Roland Landers, CEO of All India Gaming Federation, said.
“There is the clear distinction that needs to be drawn between games of skill such as bridge, eSports and games of chance.”
According to Landers, expanding the ban to the legitimate industry that has created many unicorns and is going to be a significant contributor to the Indian economy is not justified.
Singh noted the move represents an “impermissible expansion of the law” that encroaches upon fundamental freedoms and violates the constitutional rights of the residents of the state.
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Asia
Genting Singapore Appoints Lee Shi Ruh as its New President and COO

Genting Singapore chief financial officer (CFO) Lee Shi Ruh has been appointed president and chief operating officer (COO), filling a position that had been vacant for three years.
The role was last held by former president and COO Tan Hee Teck, who was promoted to chief executive officer in May 2022.
Lee has now stepped down as CFO, the group announced in a bourse filing on Friday (Aug 1). That role will be taken over by Ang Suat Ching, currently CFO of Resorts World Sentosa (RWS), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Genting Singapore. Ang will retain her role at RWS.
These changes follow the retirement of Tan, who stepped down as CEO and chairman of RWS in May.
From Jun 1, Lim Kok Thay, executive chairman of the Genting Group, assumed the role of acting CEO, while Lee took on the position of CEO of RWS.
“These appointments reflect our commitment to leadership renewal as the group enters its next phase of growth,” said Lim.
He added that Lee “brings a proven track record of sound decision-making, strategic discipline, and a clear understanding of the group’s long-term priorities, which will be invaluable in her expanded role as president and COO”.
He also noted that Ang’s financial expertise will support the group’s long-term value creation.
The post Genting Singapore Appoints Lee Shi Ruh as its New President and COO appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Aquisitions/Mergers
Donaco International Shareholders Approve Acquisition by On Nut Road Limited

Donaco International Limited (DNA), an ASX-listed company focused on leisure, entertainment and associated technology, announced that its shareholders have voted in favour of the proposed acquisition of 100% of the company’s shares by On Nut Road Limited (ONR) via a scheme of arrangement. Donaco International operates casino businesses in Southeast Asia.
The resolution to approve the Scheme was passed with significant support, with 98.11% of votes cast by Donaco shareholders in favour. Additionally, 77.50% of Donaco shareholders present and voting, either in person or by proxy, attorney, or corporate representative, also voted in favour of the Scheme. The voting results reflect strong shareholder backing for the proposed acquisition.
The Scheme remains subject to the approval of the Supreme Court of New South Wales at a hearing scheduled for Thursday, 7 August 2025. The Second Court Hearing will only occur if all of the remaining conditions precedent to the Scheme have been satisfied or waived. If the court approves the Scheme and all conditions are met, Donaco intends to lodge a copy of the court orders with ASIC on Friday, 8 August 2025, upon which the Scheme will become effective and DNA shares will be suspended from trading on the ASX. Pending final approvals, the implementation of the Scheme is expected to occur on Tuesday, 19 August 2025.
The post Donaco International Shareholders Approve Acquisition by On Nut Road Limited appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Asia
GK8 Announces Football Legend Michael Owen as its New Brand Ambassador

GK8, Asia’s leading platform for interactive gaming and entertainment, has announced football legend Michael Owen as its new brand ambassador. With a reputation built on trust, security and a diverse range of gaming options, GK8 continues to expand its influence in the iGaming sector, and Owen’s partnership is set to bolster its position in the competitive industry.
Michael Owen, a former English football star known for his exceptional skills and quick pace on the field, brings his star power to the fast-growing brand. With years of success both on and off the pitch, Owen’s influence will help enhance GK8’s visibility across key international markets. The partnership marks a pivotal moment for the company, reflecting its ambition to continue expanding globally while maintaining its commitment to a high standard of user experience.
“It’s an honor to be working with such a dynamic and forward-thinking brand like GK8. Their dedication to creating a secure, engaging platform aligns perfectly with my values. I look forward to connecting with fans and players in Southeast Asia, sharing in the excitement and entertainment that GK8 offers,” said Michael Owen.
Founded with a vision to bring top-tier gaming experiences to Asia, GK8 has rapidly grown into a major force in the interactive gaming industry. The platform is recognised for its advanced security measures, seamless user interface and wide selection of games, including sports, lotteries and multiplayer online options. GK8’s unique approach to customer service has helped them build a loyal global community, with users praising its responsive support team and fast transactions.
The post GK8 Announces Football Legend Michael Owen as its New Brand Ambassador appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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