Playtech has provided support for the International Center for Responsible Gaming’s (ICRG) research program. The ICRG, a global pioneer and leader in gambling disorder research and education, has been conducting stringent competitions for research grants since 1996.

The ICRG, overseen by an independent Scientific Advisory Board comprising leading addiction specialists, has recently invited applicants to participate in research focused on the impact of gambling on under-served groups in the US or Canada. The strategic initiative aims to ensure funding for high-quality research in this critical area.

Playtech has actively supported this effort by funding research to better understand the impact of gambling on under-served groups in the US and Canada. This research will also help researchers, policymakers, regulators and the industry better understand how best to strengthen and enhance player protection amongst the groups in scope for the study.

Arthur Paikowsky, President of ICRG, said: “We are immensely grateful for Playtech’s donation, which marks a significant step towards improving our understanding of gambling-related health issues among indigenous communities in the US and Canada. This contribution will greatly enhance the effectiveness of responsible gambling measures and Playtech’s commitment to this cause is commendable and will undoubtedly make a substantial impact in the field of gambling research.”

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Jonathan Doubilet, VP of US Business Operations at Playtech, said: “Playtech is committed to creating a safer gambling environment and is a strong supporter of research that helps reduce gambling related harm and enhance player protection measures. We are delighted to be able to support the ICRG’s research that will help advance player protection for vulnerable groups in the US and Canada.”

Playtech announced the successful completion of the first milestone in its strategic partnership with Hard Rock Digital (HRD). Since the initial announcement, Playtech has delivered a range of games through HRD’s existing proprietary Hard Rock Bet platform in New Jersey, including RNG slots, table games, and live dealer games. The table games include several Playtech-developed Hard Rock Bet branded games.

Under the terms of the partnership, HRD licensed Playtech’s proven technology solutions and iGaming content, enabling customers to enjoy a wide variety of exciting games through HRD’s proprietary online casino platform and technology offering. Customers in New Jersey and those in any future Hard Rock Bet iCasino markets in North America will have access to Playtech’s market leading RNG slots, and live dealer games, includes classical table games such as Blackjack, Roulette and also the award-winning game show Adventures beyond wonderland offering an unparalleled gaming experience for Hard Rock players.

The partnership has seen the release of a dedicated Blackjack table with more to follow, offering Hard Rock players a customised experience. This is just the beginning of a series of bespoke developments that will be made over the course of this partnership as Playtech remains committed to delivering innovative and engaging gaming experiences to HRD’s customers.

This valuable partnership combines Hard Rock’s strong global brand and Playtech’s extensive international market knowledge and innovative games. Currently, HRD offers online and retail sports betting in Arizona, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee (online only), and Virginia, while offering retail sports betting and an integrated online sportsbook-casino experience in New Jersey. HRD also plans to launch in more states in the future and intends to bring its online Sportsbook and iGaming offerings to select international markets in the coming years.

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Jonathan Doubilet, VP of U.S. Business Operations at Playtech, said: “Our alliance is built on shared values, mutual trust, and a joint vision of driving innovation and a unique customer experience. By combining our expertise and resources, we are delighted to have reached our first milestone together and are excited about accelerating our growing partnership with Hard Rock Digital.”

Grant Williams, Senior Vice President of Casino at Hard Rock Digital, said: “We’re committed to having the best product in the market, and our first dedicated table – which will be one of many bespoke developments – is yet another way we are providing legendary entertainment to our players. We’re thrilled to introduce Playtech’s offerings to our New Jersey Hard Rock Bet players and look forward to continuing to develop unique digital experiences together as we expand in the US and international markets.”