Industry News
Paddy Power Co-founder Accuses Industry of Scaremongering Over Tax Hike Warnings
The co-founder of Paddy Power has accused industry chiefs of scaremongering after they warned new gambling taxes could push punters towards the black market.
Stewart Kenny, who resigned from the bookmaking giant in 2016 and has since become a vocal critic of the sector over problem gambling, claimed it was a red herring. He admitted using the “black market” argument during his time in charge, adding: “I’m embarrassed to admit this…we knew it was way exaggerated but it is the perfect way of saying ‘the government will lose money’ – but in fact it won’t.”
Among those issuing the black market warning is Paddy Paddy’s now owner.
His comments came as top bosses launched a fightback in the wake of calls for Chancellor Rachel Reeves to hike gambling taxes to fund welfare spending and tackle harmful gambling. It follows another round of bumper results from some of the industry’s big players who, together, are forecast to rake in profits of £4billion globally this year.
Peter Jackson, chief executive of Paddy Power parent company Flutter, which recently predicted annual profits would surge by around 40% to £2.45billion, said: “it’s really important (to) keep customers in the legitimate market where we can make sure we can look after them.”
Sean Wilkins, finance chief at William Hill owner Evoke, which analysts estimate will make £362million this year, said higher taxes will “only lead to a growth in the black market.” And Stella David, chief executive of Ladbrokes owner Entain, warned of “the law of unintended consequences”.
Pressure is growing for the government to use a consultation on updating the tax treatment of bookmakers to hit the sector with fresh levies. The Office for Budget Responsibility has forecast current levies will bring in £3.8billion for the Treasury this financial year.
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Asia
FUN88 Launches AI Game Recommendations, Setting New iGaming Standard
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FUN88, a leading online gaming platform, has introduced its latest breakthrough in the iGaming industry: AI-powered recommendations for slot games. This new feature marks a significant step in enhancing user experience, offering tailored game suggestions based on individual preferences and gaming behaviour.
By analysing user data and local market trends, the AI system recommends popular games tailored to regions such as Thailand and Vietnam, ensuring a more personalised and engaging experience for every player.
Key Highlights of the AI Game Recommendations Feature:
• Personalised Recommendations – AI analyses gameplay history and preferences to suggest slot games that best fit each player.
• Enhanced User Experience – A seamless, customised journey that saves players time.
• Available for Vietnam and Thailand Players – The feature is available to registered FUN88 users in these markets, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to innovation.
• Responsible Gaming Focus – AI technology also supports FUN88’s dedication to safe and responsible play.
This launch marks another step forward for FUN88 in combining technology and entertainment to enhance user satisfaction. The new system not only makes gameplay more convenient and exciting but also aligns with FUN88’s long-term vision of offering safe, smart and enjoyable gaming.
Players can now explore the new AI-powered recommendations by registering on FUN88 or logging in to their accounts. Through the FUN88 app, users can easily access their favorite categories, manage their accounts and enjoy exclusive promotions.
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AskGamblers Casino Complaint Service
AskGamblers Casino Complaint Service Surpasses $80 Million Returned to Players
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The AskGamblers Casino Complaint Service is a vital wheel in the mechanism of AskGamblers, and lately, that wheel has been spinning faster than ever. After reaching the $70 million milestone only a few months ago, the service has now gone above and beyond once again.
At AskGamblers, every complaint is handled with care and persistence to ensure fair treatment for players facing issues with online casinos. The most recent case involved a user who had difficulties withdrawing their winnings from Jackbit Casino. The amount in question was significant – $3,311,000.
After the AGCCS team reached out to the casino, the issue was resolved in less than two weeks, and the player successfully received their funds.
Since its launch in 2009, AGCCS has now returned over $80 million to players across the globe.
Dijana Radunović, General Manager at AskGamblers, said: “Every time our complaint team reaches a new milestone, I’m reminded of how much passion and effort they put into helping players. We’re proud of them and the impact they’re making – it’s a reminder that fairness in gaming really matters.”
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ANESAR
ANESAR Holds its 43rd Ordinary General Assembly
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The Spanish Association of Gaming and Recreational Hall Entrepreneurs (ANESAR) has held its 43rd Ordinary General Assembly this Tuesday, November 4, in the Carlos Ferret Salat room of CEOE, in Madrid, where it once again brought together a large representation of members, in a meeting marked by reflection, collaboration and the firm will to continue working with data, arguments and responsibility.
Following the institutional opening by Javier Calderón, Director of Companies and Organisations of CEOE, aspects of mandatory statutory compliance were addressed, such as the approval of minutes, the explanation and approval of accounts and budgets, or the approval of the Annual Report of Activities.
Next, José Vall presented the president’s report, in which he emphasised that, although political decisions are often difficult to understand, “our duty is to continue providing arguments and evidence to defend the sector with rigor, knowledge, and sound judgment.” In this regard, he stressed the need to anticipate events, prepare information and coordinate common messages that reinforce the image of a sector committed to legality, prevention and responsible gaming.
For his part, Juan Lacarra, technical general secretary of ANESAR, reviewed the main current issues from a regulatory and operational perspective, addressing relevant aspects such as sanctioning procedures, opening hours, biometrics and hiring difficulties.
During the Assembly, the “Key Data and Sector Dynamics” were also presented, highlighting that there are currently 3600 gaming arcades (more than 240 have closed in the last four years) and 30,060 slot machines. It was also specified that the average spend per visit is €16, that 85% of people are accompanied by family and friends, and that 60% are men around 30 years old. Regarding employment data, it was explained that the sector supports more than 47,000 jobs, including both direct and indirect workers, making it a significant driver of employment. The ANESAR Training Plan was also emphasised, with 8725 students and 16,539 formal enrollments (data as of October 15, 2025). Furthermore, it was noted that, with a real estate investment of €260 million, gaming arcades represent one of the largest private investments in the leisure sector. A sector that, as was recalled, collects more than 320 million euros in taxes annually, which benefit hundreds of thousands of people, as well as society as a whole.
The Assembly also included the participation of experts in politics and institutional relations, such as Jaime Criado, from the firm ACENTO, who provided insights into the current political situation and its potential impact on the sector. ANESAR Vice Presidents Enric Sanahuja, Raúl Rubio and Antonio Fornés also offered their perspectives on current issues affecting the sector. Finally, Ramón Cubián, Director General of Land and Delegate for Gaming Regulation and Management of the Community of Madrid, accompanied by Gracia Martín Duarte, Deputy Director of Gaming Management and Regulation, and their team, officially closed the 43rd ANESAR Assembly.
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