Weekend Report: ACMA issues bans on illegal sites and NCPG has new executive director
Welcome to the Weekend Report, where iGB looks at the news that you may have missed across the last few days. This week, Australia’s ACMA blocks more illegal gambling websites, NCPG has a new executive director and Intralot pens new deal with Arkansas Lottery.
ACMA orders blocking of illegal gambling sits
The Australian Communications and Media Authority has issued banning orders against a further nine illegal gambling and affiliate websites.
ACMA said the sites did not hold a licence to offer online gambling in Australia. As such, it requested that Australian internet service providers block access to the sites.
Among the brands were Cashed, King Maker, Posido, Spinight, Spinsy, The Pokies Reviews and Topio Networks. Also flagged was wizbet.app, an imitation of the licensed WizBet service, and next2go-au.com, an imitation of the approved Next2Go service.
“Since ACMA made its first blocking request in November 2019, 1,369 illegal websites have been blocked,” ACMA said. “Around 220 illegal services have also pulled out of the Australian market since we started enforcing new illegal online gambling rules in 2017.”
PAGCOR commits funds to typhon support
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation has allocated Php32.85 million ($557,267) to assist those impacted by the recent Typhoon Tino and Super Typhoon Uwan.
The typhoons left widespread devastation across the Philippines, claiming hundred of lives and affecting over 2.5 million families. Funds from PAGCOR were used to buy 31,500 relief packs containing food and non-food essentials.
Another batch of 16,500 relief packs worth Php18.07 million will also be dispatched.
“In times of calamities, PAGCOR will always be ready to step in and extend support to our fellow Filipinos,” CEO Alejandro Tengco said. “Part of our nation-building mission is to help our kababayans rebuild their lives.”
Hippos ATG names Nurmi as COO
The newly established Hippos ATG has appointed Jussi Nurmi as its chief operating officer.
Nurmi has 10 years of experience within the iGaming industry, including time working in senior roles with Betsson and TonyBet.
In April, Sweden’s ATG announced a 50/50 joint venture with local Finnish racing association Suomen Hippos. It was later confirmed the business would operate in Finland with the ATG brand.
“Hippos ATG combines strong heritage with a clear ambition to build a modern and sustainable business for the Finnish market,” Nurmi said. “I’m excited to contribute to creating a competitive and responsible gaming company in Finland.”
Intralot extends with Arkansas Scholarship Lottery
In the US, Intralot has signed a new, 10-year contract with the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery.
The agreement, which comes into effect next August, will extend a partnership that began in 2009. It covers the introduction of new technology for the lottery.
Intralot will introduce its new lottery solution, including the LotosX Central Gaming System. Arkansas will be one of the first states in the US to roll out the technology.
“We look forward to our continued partnership with Intralot.” Arkansas Scholarship Lottery Executive Director Sharon Strong said. “With this new agreement, we remain committed to both our players and our mission of supporting Arkansas students.”
National Council on Problem Gambling appoints Maurer
The National Council on Problem Gambling has appointed Heather Maurer as its new executive director.
Maurer brings over 25 years of leadership experience in the fields of public health, policy, and nonprofit management. She was most recently CEO of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health.
As executive director, Maurer will lead strategic direction and oversee national programmes, partnerships and advocacy initiatives.
“I’m honoured to join NCPG and build on its strong legacy of leadership in addressing gambling-related harm,” said Maurer.
Keith Whyte served as executive director of the national council for more than 25 years before his departure in January.