FanDuel RG series, Bet365 in Illinois, Tennessee

Welcome to the Weekend Report, where iGB summarizes the key developments in the gambling sector from Friday to Sunday. This week’s update features the launch of FanDuel TV’s new responsible gambling series, Bet365’s expansion into Illinois and Tennessee, and Scientific Games’ re-certification from the World Lottery Association (WLA).

FanDuel Unveils ‘The Comeback’ Responsible Gambling Series

In a significant move for the responsible gambling narrative, FanDuel TV, a subsidiary of FanDuel Group, has announced the debut of its responsible gambling series titled ‘The Comeback’. This initiative is designed to foster awareness about gambling addiction and promote open conversations about its impacts.

Leading the series is Craig Carton, a dedicated responsible gambling advocate, who brings his personal experiences with addiction to the forefront. His interviews will feature individuals who share their journeys through gambling disorders, aiming to destigmatize these challenges and highlight available support systems. The inaugural episode will showcase Randy Livingston, a former NBA player and a reformed problem gambler, alongside his wife, both of whom have recently joined FanDuel as responsible gambling ambassadors.

The Comeback will be accessible via FanDuel’s YouTube channel and FanDuel TV Extra. Cory Fox, FanDuel’s Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Sustainability, shared, “Our objective with The Comeback is to elevate problem gambling awareness and encourage candid discussions to mitigate the stigma that surrounds it.”

Bet365 Launches Online Sportsbook in Illinois and Tennessee

Bet365 is making headlines with the launch of its online sportsbook in both Illinois and Tennessee, expanding its footprint across the United States. Reports confirm the platform is now operational in Illinois, allowing customers to place wagers on a diverse array of sports, further solidifying Bet365’s role among leading brands such as DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Fanatics within the Illinois market.

In Tennessee, Bet365 went live this past weekend, contributing to a growing market now comprising 12 active operators. With this expansion, Bet365’s sportsbook app is now available in a total of 13 states, including New Jersey, Arizona, Iowa, Colorado, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Virginia.

BetMakers Strengthens Partnership with UK Tote Group

BetMakers Technology Group has expanded its collaboration with UK Tote Group, aiming to enhance the quality of pool wagering. Under this renewed agreement, BetMakers’ Quantum software will serve as the primary platform for pool wagering across British and Irish racetracks, managing the technical operations for incoming commingling to ensure optimal efficiency.

This strategic partnership features a combination of variable revenue and fixed fee structures, with BetMakers projecting annual revenues of approximately AU$4.0 million (£2.0 million/€2.3 million/US$2.5 million) through this agreement, which will remain effective until June 30, 2029. Notably, UK Tote Group stands as the largest customer for BetMakers’ Global Tote division, underscoring the significance of this relationship.

Pagcor Allocates PHP300 Million to Philippine National Police Academy

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) has committed PHP300 million to the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA), a substantial investment aimed at enhancing training and facilities for future officers. This funding will be utilized to modernize infrastructure and procure advanced training resources for cadets.

The grant will also support the construction of a new PNPA Alumni Association building, facilitating administrative operations and accommodating visiting alumni. Furthermore, it will finance enhancements to the PNPA’s Crime Scene Plaza, reflecting Pagcor’s dedication to public safety and community development. Alejandro Tengco, Pagcor’s Chair and CEO, stated, “We aspire that these contributions will significantly improve the mobility and learning experiences of cadets and alumni engaged in continuous education.”

Scientific Games Achieves WLA Responsible Gaming Re-Certification

Scientific Games has successfully obtained re-certification under the World Lottery Association (WLA) Responsible Gaming Framework, reflecting the company’s commitment to responsible gaming practices. This assessment revealed that Scientific Games not only meets but exceeds the baseline requirements established by the WLA for responsible gaming certification.

The re-certification encompasses the company’s operations and technological contributions across 50 countries. The WLA Responsible Gaming certification framework encompasses a wide range of areas, including research initiatives, employee training programs, responsible product development, remote gambling channels, client awareness, and stakeholder engagement.

With a portfolio that includes partnerships with 150 lotteries globally, Scientific Games continues to lead the charge in promoting responsible gaming standards throughout the industry.