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Over half of UK gamblers view betting funds differently to money in their bank accounts, new research reveals
During Safer Gambling Week, BetMGM reveals data that highlights UK gambling and betting habits
Over half of UK gamblers view the money in their accounts with betting websites as different to the money in their bank account, new research from BetMGM can reveal.
To mark Safer Gambling Week in the UK, BetMGM surveyed UK residents who have placed a bet or gambled within the last 12 months, with 51% of them saying they see money in gambling accounts differently to their personal funds. Despite the money holding the same value no matter where it is held, the research highlights that there is an innate awareness of its true value.
Further highlighting this and the need for greater education and awareness around gambling, 19% admitted they usually or always chase their gambling losses, while 14% do not view their winnings as ‘real money’.
However, there is a positive trend among younger players, with those aged between 18-34 more likely (92%) to put a monetary restriction on their betting to ensure their safety.
BetMGM is committed to promoting safer gambling and providing an experience which is safe and enjoyable for all players – and undertook this research to educate the public about gambling habits and how to stay responsible while betting.
Sam Behar, UK Director at BetMGM, said: “The industry has come on leaps and bounds in the past decade – we know so much more about responsible gambling and everyone at BetMGM is devoted to ensuring our customers play safely.
“We’re a huge supporter of Safer Gambling Week but it is something that is core to our business throughout the year.
“We’re delighted to see the growing use of responsible gambling with younger players throughout the UK, but there is always more that can be done. We are striving to improve and introduce new methods to help potential problem gamblers.
“To those who have admitted chasing their losses and those who view the funds in their betting accounts as different to that of their bank accounts, we implore them to see that money as having real-world value.”
BetMGM has tools in place to support players who are feeling uncomfortable about their gambling, including human customer support available 24/7.
Also in place are deposit, loss, session and wagering limits, self-exclusion and ad-limiting tools as well as access to services like therapy, support groups and financial blocks.
Key findings from the report include:
- 51% of UK gamblers view the money in their gambling accounts as different from that in their bank accounts
- 92% of players 18-24 put monetary restrictions on their gambling
- 46% put money won from gambling into their savings
- 26% use gambling winnings to place another bet straight away
- 19% always or usually chase their gambling losses
For more information on safer gambling, please visit betmgm.co.uk/safer-gambling or the Safer Gambling Week website at safergamblinguk.org. You can also call the UK’s National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133.”
AI gaming platforms
BetConstruct AI Sets the Tone for 2026 iGaming with Harmony Choice Event in Barcelona
BetConstruct AI defines a new era of iGaming at Harmony Choice in Barcelona
On January 17, BetConstruct AI officially ushered in the 2026 iGaming season with Harmony Choice, an exclusive industry gathering held in Barcelona just days ahead of ICE Barcelona. Hosted at one of the city’s most iconic venues, the event brought together senior industry leaders for an evening of strategic dialogue, collaboration, and high-level networking.
Designed to set the tone for the year ahead, Harmony Choice became the stage for a series of major announcements that highlight BetConstruct AI’s ambition to reshape the iGaming ecosystem through artificial intelligence and scalable technology.
Choice Gaming officially launched
Taking center stage, Vigen Badalyan, Co-founder of BetConstruct AI, announced the official launch of Choice Gaming. The platform has already demonstrated rapid adoption, going live on more than 1,000 websites at launch.
Looking ahead, BetConstruct AI revealed an ambitious growth plan, projecting integration across 5,000+ websites by the end of February. To reward early adopters, the company announced that every 51st integrator will receive the entire Choice Gaming slot portfolio free for one year.
KISS AI Live Casino debuts
Harmony Choice also marked the unveiling of KISS AI Live Casino, a groundbreaking live casino solution powered entirely by advanced artificial intelligence. Positioned as a next-generation product, KISS AI Live Casino aims to redefine player interaction and operational efficiency within live gaming environments.
To accelerate adoption, BetConstruct AI introduced a limited-time incentive: partners integrating KISS AI Live Casino by February 25 will receive the platform free for one year.
Faster scaling with Open API integration
Further streamlining partner onboarding, BetConstruct AI announced that Open API integration would be available on both BetConstruct AI and Choice Gaming websites starting January 19. The updated system enables online contract sign-offs, allowing operators to integrate products and scale operations faster and more efficiently.
Leadership insights and new product reveals
The evening also featured strategic insights from senior leadership across the group:
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Vahagn Badalyan, CEO of Badalyan Brothers, reviewed recent milestones and unveiled two new live casino games from Creedroomz, reinforcing the group’s live casino offering.
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Leonid Kirakosyan, CEO of BetConstruct AI, introduced Betting Mate, an AI-powered recommendation engine designed to enhance sportsbook engagement through personalized, data-driven betting suggestions.
Setting the benchmark for 2026
More than a networking event, Harmony Choice served as a clear statement of intent. By blending human creativity with artificial intelligence, BetConstruct AI demonstrated its commitment to equipping operators with flexible tools, advanced AI solutions, and diverse gaming portfolios.
As the industry turns its attention to ICE Barcelona 2026, BetConstruct AI has set a high benchmark for innovation, scalability, and strategic vision — positioning Harmony Choice as one of the defining moments at the start of the iGaming year.
The post BetConstruct AI Sets the Tone for 2026 iGaming with Harmony Choice Event in Barcelona appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Casino Technology
Danny Wu Wins Cubeia’s ICE Barcelona VIP Poker Tournament Featuring Henrik Larsson & Johan Mjällby
Danny Wu triumphs at Cubeia’s ICE Barcelona VIP Poker Tournament
Cubeia, the Sweden-based iGaming software solutions provider, has announced Danny Wu as the winner of its inaugural ICE Barcelona VIP Poker Tournament, held in partnership with QTech Games. The standout event featured a special table that included Swedish football icons Henrik Larsson and Johan Mjällby, drawing significant attention from ICE attendees.
A high-profile showdown at ICE Barcelona
Hosted on Day 2 at Cubeia’s eye-catching stand, the VIP poker tournament quickly became a focal point of the exhibition floor. Danny Wu emerged victorious after an entertaining and competitive session, taking home the top prize of €1,500.
The table combined serious poker action with relaxed conversation, as players swapped hands and shared football stories, creating an atmosphere that resonated with both poker enthusiasts and industry professionals.
A premium VIP experience
Cubeia elevated the experience with a curated VIP setting, complete with champagne and beer, reinforcing the social and celebratory tone of the event. The lively ambience helped generate buzz throughout the day and showcased Cubeia’s ability to deliver memorable, community-driven activations at major industry events.
Spotlight on Cubeia Originals
Alongside the tournament, visitors explored Cubeia’s Originals portfolio, including upcoming titles such as Chicken Cross Tower, Multiplier Roulette, Baccarat, Blackjack, and Snakes. The showcase highlighted Cubeia’s commitment to innovative content and engaging game mechanics.
Industry praise
Tove Nilsson, Marketing & Event Coordinator at Cubeia, commented:
“The VIP Poker Tournament exceeded all expectations and was a major highlight of ICE Barcelona. Working with our partners, QTech Games, we delivered a truly premium experience. The atmosphere around the table was exactly what we hoped for — competitive, social, and genuinely fun. Congratulations to Danny on a deserved win, and huge thanks to Henrik Larsson and Johan Mjällby for being such great sports.”
Bringing the industry together
The success of the ICE Barcelona VIP Poker Tournament underlines Cubeia’s strength in creating unique, high-impact experiences that connect partners, players, and visitors. By blending celebrity appeal, quality gameplay, and premium hospitality, Cubeia reinforced its position as a brand that values community and innovation within the iGaming industry.
The post Danny Wu Wins Cubeia’s ICE Barcelona VIP Poker Tournament Featuring Henrik Larsson & Johan Mjällby appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
affiliate marketing
N1 Partners Takes Flight in Barcelona: Helicopter Awarded at iGB Affiliate 2026 Finale
The curtains have closed on iGB Affiliate 2026, but the echoes of N1 Partners’ massive presence are still vibrating through the halls of the Fira de Barcelona. After two days of high-stakes networking and over 500 business meetings, the company concluded the event by awarding a Robinson R22 Beta II helicopter to the grand winner of the N1 Puzzle Promo.
A Hub of Industry Activity
From January 20 to 21, the N1 Partners stand (80-C80) served as a primary nervous system for the expo floor. The team maintained a relentless pace, facilitating hundreds of discussions regarding traffic strategies and custom deals.
Beyond the boardroom-style meetings, the stand offered a more interactive “Plinko” activity and distributed over 300 branded merchandise packs, ensuring the N1 brand remained visible across the entire conference.
Media Spotlight and Thought Leadership
The company’s influence extended beyond the booth, with leadership participating in more than 10 interviews and podcasts. These sessions focused on sustainable growth within the iGaming sector and evolving affiliate expectations, further solidifying N1 Partners’ reputation as a transparent and performance-driven program.
The Grand Finale: A Night to Remember
The highlight of the week was undoubtedly the N1 Puzzle Promo Party, an exclusive, closed-format celebration that saw over 2,000 registrations. While only 600 guests could be accommodated, the venue was packed with the industry’s top decision-makers and affiliates.
The atmosphere reached a fever pitch as the winners of the N1 Puzzle Promo leaderboard were announced:
| Rank | Partner Name |
| 1st Place (Helicopter Winner) | Cash Splash |
| 2nd Place | Advertise |
| 3rd Place | Traffic Squad |
| 4th Place | Seven Group |
| 5th Place | Alfaleads Network |
The evening concluded with a live performance from a surprise headline guest and high-energy DJ sets, marking the successful end of a campaign that was recently named Best Advertising and Marketing Campaign at the European iGaming Awards.
The post N1 Partners Takes Flight in Barcelona: Helicopter Awarded at iGB Affiliate 2026 Finale appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
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