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UK’s BGC calls for Online Harms Bill to crackdown on black-market unregulated gambling operators endangering children

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Standards body BGC Calls for government to use Online Harms Bill to crackdown on unregulated gambling operators

Analysis conducted for the new standards body, the Betting and Gaming Council which represents UK regulated operators, reveals consumers are exposed to large numbers of unlicensed operators (38%) through search results for key gambling terms on major search engines.

  • 4 in 10 search results for key gambling terms on major search engines are unlicensed black-market operators
  • Danger that children are accessing illegal websites with no strict ID and age verification measures unlike U.K. licensed operators.
  • 27 million visits from UK IP addresses to black—market gambling sites
  • Estimated 200,000 people in U.K. have used illegal gambling sites in past 12 months

The BGC calls on the government to ensure that the Online Harms Bill, soon to be introduced in parliament, includes action to crack down on platforms who profit from unregulated, black market gambling operators.

There is a particular danger that children are accessing these websites where there are no strict ID and age verification measures deployed by U.K. licensed operators. New strict age verification procedures introduced in May 2019 for UK licensed operators require full verification of name, age and address before anyone can open an online account or place a bet.

The regulatory Advisory Board for Safer Gambling (formerly RGSB) warned in 2018 that internet service providers, app stores, search engine companies, and other relevant providers should be vigilant to the possibility of third party use of their products to provide illegal gambling to children and young people, and should be proactive in preventing it.

The sizeable proportion of gamblers using unlicensed operators reveals that the size of the active ‘black market’ in the UK today is worth around £1.4bn in stakes.

Web traffic statistics suggest that there are 27 million visits from UK IP addresses. Some unlicensed websites block customers from the U.K. but many of those can be circumvented using VPNs (Virtual Private Networks).

Michael Dugher, Chief Executive of the BGC, said: “Search platforms are promoting black-market gambling operators for profit, putting the British consumers, including children, at risk. None of the UK’s strict licensed safeguards are in place on these illegal sites.

“Regulated bookies and online operators have a strict zero tolerance approach to underage gambling, yet unlicensed operators are free to prey on vulnerable consumers.

“We welcome the Government’s Online Harms Bill. But it also provides the Government with a chance to clamp down on the black-market and help protect punters who want a flutter in a safe environment.”

Austria

Wazdan strengthens European foothold with Austrian market entry via win2day

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Wazdan has continued its European growth strategy by entering the Austrian iGaming market through a new partnership with win2day, the country’s only licensed online casino operator. The move represents a significant milestone for the developer as it strengthens its footprint in regulated markets across the region.

The agreement will see a selection of Wazdan’s most recognisable titles made available to Austrian players, including 9 Coins™, Hot Slot™: 777 Cash Out, and Mighty Wild™: Panther. These initial releases mark the beginning of a broader rollout strategy aimed at steadily expanding the studio’s presence on the platform.

Gradual Rollout Strategy

Following the initial launch, Wazdan plans to introduce one new title each month to the win2day portfolio. This phased approach allows the operator to continuously refresh its offering while ensuring each addition aligns with player preferences and market demand.

By focusing on quality over volume, the partnership is designed to enhance player engagement through carefully selected content that combines strong visual appeal with innovative gameplay mechanics.

Bringing Signature Features to Austria

In addition to its established titles, Wazdan will introduce Austrian players to its suite of proprietary features that have become central to its brand identity. These include Hold the Jackpot™, Cash Infinity™, Collect to Infinity™, Sticky to Infinity™, and Cash Out™.

These mechanics are designed to increase player interaction and extend gameplay sessions by adding dynamic elements and customizable experiences. As operators increasingly seek differentiated content, such features play a key role in enhancing retention and overall player satisfaction.

Partnering with a Trusted Operator

win2day is operated by Austrian Lotteries, a long-established organization with more than four decades of experience in the market. As the sole licensed online casino operator in Austria, win2day holds a unique position, combining strict regulatory compliance with a strong reputation for responsible gaming.

The collaboration brings together Wazdan’s expertise in game development with win2day’s established market presence, creating a partnership focused on delivering high-quality and secure entertainment to players.

Andrzej Hyla, Chief Commercial Officer at Wazdan, said:

“Entering the Austrian market with win2day is a significant milestone for Wazdan and a rewarding step in our continued European expansion. Partnering with a trusted, long-established operator allows us to deliver the quality user experience we are known for to a new audience.”

Georg Wawer, Managing Director of win2day, added:

“As Austria’s only licensed online gaming operator, we are committed to offering a carefully curated portfolio of high-quality games. Partnering with Wazdan allows us to combine engaging gameplay with the highest levels of safety and responsibility.”

Strengthening Regulated Market Presence

As the European iGaming landscape continues to evolve, expansion into regulated jurisdictions remains a key priority for leading developers. Wazdan’s entry into Austria highlights its commitment to sustainable growth through strategic partnerships and compliance-driven market entry.

By aligning with a trusted operator and delivering proven content alongside innovative features, Wazdan is well-positioned to establish a strong presence in the Austrian market.

The post Wazdan strengthens European foothold with Austrian market entry via win2day appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

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Canada

Peter & Sons Goes Live in Ontario with Ellipse Entertainment

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Innovative iGaming studio Peter & Sons has strengthened its North American footprint by launching its portfolio in Ontario through a new partnership with Ellipse Entertainment, a fully licensed operator in the province.

The collaboration marks another step in the studio’s international expansion, bringing its distinctive slot titles to one of the most dynamic regulated markets in North America. Players in Ontario can now access Peter & Sons’ games via HighFlyerCasino.com, Ellipse Entertainment’s flagship platform designed specifically for the local market.

Entering a Key Regulated Market

Ontario has quickly established itself as a leading jurisdiction for regulated iGaming, attracting both operators and content providers seeking long-term growth opportunities. With a strong regulatory framework and a growing player base, the province offers a stable environment for companies looking to scale their presence in North America.

By partnering with Ellipse Entertainment, Peter & Sons gains access to a platform that prioritizes compliance, security, and user experience. HighFlyerCasino.com combines a wide-ranging portfolio of casino content with a seamless interface tailored to local players, ensuring a high-quality gaming experience.

Distinctive Content Meets Local Demand

Peter & Sons has built a reputation for delivering unconventional slot experiences, characterized by indie-inspired visuals, imaginative storytelling, and highly detailed game worlds. Its portfolio stands out in a crowded market, appealing to players looking for something beyond traditional slot design.

The launch in Ontario introduces these unique titles to a broader audience, aligning with increasing demand for diverse and engaging content within regulated markets. As competition intensifies, distinctive game design has become a key differentiator for studios aiming to capture player attention and retention.

Building a Long-Term Partnership

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to delivering premium entertainment within a trusted regulatory environment. Both companies are focused on creating value for players while ensuring compliance with Ontario’s gaming standards.

Yann Bautista, Founder and Commercial Director at Peter & Sons, said:

“We are delighted to launch our portfolio with Ellipse Entertainment and bring our games to players in Ontario. The region has quickly established itself as a key regulated market in North America, and HighFlyerCasino.com provides a strong platform for introducing our distinctive titles to Canadian audiences.”

Larry Galansky, Founder of Ellipse Entertainment, added:

“We are pleased to welcome Peter & Sons to our platform as we continue expanding our entertainment offering. Their games are known for their artistic style and engaging gameplay, and we are confident they will resonate strongly with our audience.”

As the Ontario market continues to grow, partnerships like this highlight the importance of combining innovative content with reliable distribution platforms. For Peter & Sons, the move represents a strategic step toward strengthening its global reach while delivering its unique gaming experiences to new audiences.

The post Peter & Sons Goes Live in Ontario with Ellipse Entertainment appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

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BIS SIGMA SOUTH AMERICA 2026

VeliTech makes its Brazil debut at BiS SiGMA South America 2026

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VeliTech is set to make its first-ever appearance in Brazil at Stand i156 at BiS SiGMA South America 2026, taking place in São Paulo from 6–9 April. The team arrives with a double awards shortlist and a casino content offering built to turn heads.

The company has been shortlisted in two major categories:

  • Best Platform for VeliTech
  • Best Gaming Experience for VeliPlay

The recognition shines a light on two powerful parts of the VeliTech ecosystem. VeliTech has been shortlisted for the strength of its battle-tested iGaming core platform, while VeliPlay is being recognised for the fast-paced, high-energy gameplay experience delivered through its crash and instant games.

For its Brazil debut, VeliTech is putting casino content front and centre.

Leading the spotlight is VeliPlay, whose portfolio of crash and instant games is built for pace, immersion and repeat play. The lineup is further strengthened by Heaven of 7, the slot games provider within the VeliTech group, known for visually engaging titles and entertaining mechanics. Both studios have recently expanded their portfolios with fresh releases, including Pinball Rush from VeliPlay and Coin Up: Rise from Heaven of 7.

Completing the showcase is VeliGames, the aggregation platform by VeliTech, recently recognised as the Industry Rising Star by SiGMA. With a single integration, it provides a broad content portfolio and powerful back-office capabilities for operators.

Together, VeliPlay, Heaven of 7 and VeliGames form a casino proposition designed to help operators stand out, combining adrenaline-driven crash and instant titles, engaging slot entertainment and aggregation technology that keeps content delivery simple, scalable and commercially effective.

Mats Lundin, Chief Sales Officer at VeliTech said “Brazil is one of the most exciting markets in iGaming right now, so making our debut at BiS SiGMA South America is a big moment for us. We’re coming to São Paulo with a content lineup built to make an impact, from fast-paced crash and instant games to engaging slots, all backed by the power of VeliGames aggregation. To be shortlisted for both Best Gaming Experience and Best Platform ahead of our first event in Brazil makes this milestone even more exciting.”

Visitors can meet the VeliTech team at Stand i156 to explore how connected technology and high-performing content can work together to create a stronger casino offering for iGaming brands.

The post VeliTech makes its Brazil debut at BiS SiGMA South America 2026 appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.

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