NEXT.io iGaming Digest – 30 July 2025
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📈 Caesars doubles its online EBITDA, DraftKings faces a $450k fine from Massachusetts, and Apple iSports makes a bold acquisition in Australia.
Read on for the biggest stories below 👇
1. Caesars Digital EBITDA doubles in Q2 as operator continues debt reduction
Caesars Entertainment reported $80m in adjusted EBITDA for its digital division in Q2 2025, a 100% increase from the same quarter last year.
Caesars Digital revenue rose to $343m, up 24.3% year-on-year, even as land-based revenues from Las Vegas fell 3.7%.
2. Gamification in slots: Enhancing player experience or unnecessary complexity?
NEXT.io explored the growing use of gamification in slots with industry leaders Katya Machuganova ( Silverback Gaming ), David Mann ( Swintt ), and Julia Alekseeva ( BGaming ).
While all agreed that classic gameplay still holds value, the consensus is that optional and well-integrated gamification can boost long-term retention.
Regulatory and market differences between Europe and North America also play a key role in how these features are deployed.
Looking to make business in emerging European and LatAm markets?
3. Apple iSports to acquire Lucky Bet operator LBC Enterprises
Apple iSports Group, Inc (AAPI) , led by chairman and CEO Joe Martinez and founded by Marino Sussich , has agreed to acquire Australia-based LBC Enterprises , operator of Lucky Bet .
CEO Ian Parke will stay on and join Apple iSports’ board alongside James Tennant.
The deal, reportedly worth $125m, aims to combine LBC’s platform with Apple iSports’ capital markets access and distribution network for global expansion.
4. Betfair pays A$871,660 to ACMA for violating spam laws
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) fined Betfair A$871,660 for sending marketing messages without proper consent and without unsubscribe options between March and December 2024.
The breach affected VIP customers and prompted a binding undertaking for Betfair to overhaul its compliance, audit, and training protocols.
Acting chair Samantha Yorke criticised the operator’s conduct as irresponsible.
5. UK horseracing warns of 2,752 job losses under proposed betting tax hike
The British Horseracing Authority and Development Economics projects £330m in losses over five years and 2,752 job losses in the first year alone following the proposed UK gambling tax increases.
CEO Brant Dunshea warned of one of the gravest risks to the sport’s future.
6. DraftKings fined $450k in Massachusetts over credit card wagering
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission fined DraftKings $450,000 after finding it allowed credit card-based sports bets totalling over $83,000 between March 2023 and February 2024.
Despite prior warnings, internal miscommunication and software failures led to prolonged noncompliance. DraftKings must return all funds, conduct an independent audit, and overhaul its compliance procedures.
7. VGW withdraws Sweeps Coins in Mississippi and New Jersey
VGW will phase out Sweeps Coins from its Chumba Casino, Luckyland Slots, and Global Poker brands in Mississippi and New Jersey.
The decision follows regulatory pressure, including a cease-and-desist order in Mississippi and pending legislation in New Jersey. VGW has also increased its minimum player age and launched a trade group, the Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA) .
8. NSW regulator wary of Bally’s rescue of Star Entertainment
The NSW Independent Casino Commission remains cautious over Bally’s A$300m proposal to rescue Star Entertainment.
Despite shareholder support, concerns persist over governance, anti-money-laundering controls, and Bally’s financial capacity. Star’s solvency hinges on both regulatory approval and the resolution of ongoing civil proceedings by AUSTRAC.
9. BetMGM raises guidance after 35% revenue surge in H1 2025
BetMGM reported $1.35bn in H1 net revenue, a 35% increase, and turned EBITDA positive with $109m. iGaming contributed $891m, while sports betting hit $422m.
Monthly actives rose 7% in Q2, supported by exclusive content and omnichannel growth in states like Nevada. The company now expects FY revenue of $2.7bn and EBITDA of $150m.
10. DraftKings wins dismissal in deposit bonus lawsuit
A federal judge in New York dismissed a class action suit against DraftKings, ruling that its $1,000 deposit bonus offer was not misleading under state law.
The court found all terms were clearly disclosed and dismissed claims of unjust enrichment, fraud, and deceptive marketing by plaintiff Nerye Aminov.
11. Rise & Hustle debuts tap-to-earn gaming in Nigeria
Rise & Hustle launched its mobile-first platform in Nigeria, allowing users to earn in-game currency redeemable for airtime and rewards.
Co-founded by Josh Jones and Anthony Broadhurst, the platform uses Binance Smart Chain tokens and plans to expand into Kenya and Ghana by year-end, with real money gaming on the roadmap.
12. SmartSoft unveils brand refresh and new identity
SmartSoft has relaunched its brand platform, including a redesigned website and visual identity.
Managing partner Guga Gotsadze , design lead Vano Saginashvili , and chief marketing & commercial officer Natika Berdzuli led the initiative, which positions SmartSoft as a game changer blending gambling and entertainment.
13. SOFTSWISS launches first South Africa project with Mzansibet
SOFTSWISS has officially launched Mzansibet , its first South African project, deploying both the SOFTSWISS Sportsbook and Casino Platform.
The products were certified by Gaming Laboratories International and approved by the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board. The rollout includes nationwide TV ads and mobile-first localisation. Words from Max Trafimovich .
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