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  • Sportradar Showcases AI and Computer Vision at Investor Day to Drive Profitability

    Sportradar Showcases AI and Computer Vision at Investor Day to Drive Profitability

    Sportradar has highlighted its growing portfolio of artificial intelligence and computer vision technologies as key drivers of future profitability and efficiency. The company presented its latest innovations during an investor event held on April 1, focusing on how AI will enhance operations and client offerings.

    Central to Sportradar’s AI strategy is its data infrastructure, built over many years to support real-time data processing and model optimization. The company uses these capabilities to continuously adjust odds for betting operators based on risk profiles and real-time market conditions, aiming to improve margins and maximize profits. Internal models suggest up to an 11% increase in profitability for operators using these AI-powered tools.

    A standout presentation featured the “Sportradar Brain,” a proprietary generative AI engine connected directly to Sportradar’s massive data reserves. This tool can generate betting insights, answer sports-related queries, and even write sports content with visual aids like charts and graphs. Media clients, in particular, have shown strong interest in this technology.

    Sportradar also introduced its computer vision system, which tracks live game data more efficiently than traditional data collectors. According to the company, this method is up to 90% cheaper and collects exponentially more data. The firm currently uses computer vision in over half of the live games it covers.

    Additional innovation includes AI scripts that can write and optimize code, with Sportradar projecting that AI will boost engineering productivity by over 50% by 2028.

    Financially, the company forecasts revenue of €1.7 billion and adjusted EBITDA of €455 million by 2027. For 2024, it reported €1.1 billion in revenue, a 26% increase year-on-year, and €34 million in profit.

    In a strategic move, Sportradar also announced its acquisition of Endeavor’s IMG Arena, a major sports data unit, as part of its broader expansion efforts.

  • Spotlight Sports Group and BetMakers Join Forces to Expand Smart View Racing Product

    Spotlight Sports Group (SSG) has announced a long-term partnership with BetMakers to integrate SSG’s innovative Smart View product into BetMakers’ global racing technology platform. This collaboration aims to modernize the presentation of racing data and expand Smart View’s reach across multiple international markets.

    Smart View, developed by SSG, reimagines traditional racecards through a simplified and user-friendly interface. Inspired by modern video game design, the product offers a visually appealing and intuitive experience tailored for both seasoned punters and new users. The tool utilizes real-time data, including live track conditions, and is powered by the Racing Post’s trusted database.

    The product is enhanced by a combination of data science, expert analysis, and continual iteration, making it both dynamic and reliable. With the integration now underway, Smart View is becoming accessible to BetMakers’ audience across the United States, UK & Ireland, France, South Africa, UAE, Australia, and New Zealand.

    This partnership is set to strengthen BetMakers’ digital offering and broaden the appeal of horse racing to a new generation of bettors. With positive early feedback and a focus on increasing user engagement, Smart View is positioned to drive long-term value for both companies and their partners worldwide.

  • Kalshi and Robinhood Renew Partnership for NCAA Tournament Prediction Markets

    Kalshi and Robinhood have renewed their collaboration, launching prediction markets focused on the upcoming NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournaments. Robinhood will feature these markets through a dedicated prediction hub in its app, providing its substantial user base access to a variety of betting opportunities.

    This new initiative comes shortly after Robinhood withdrew from a similar venture around Super Bowl betting due to regulatory concerns from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). However, Kalshi and another market player, Crypto.com, continued offering Super Bowl contracts without Robinhood.

    The renewed NCAA offering follows extensive communication with the CFTC, signaling Robinhood’s willingness to cautiously re-enter the prediction market sector. Besides sports events, users can also trade contracts predicting future decisions by the Federal Reserve, particularly regarding adjustments to interest rates.

    Kalshi recently faced scrutiny from Nevada regulators who initially issued a cease-and-desist order, claiming such prediction markets require explicit gaming licenses in the state. Although regulators granted Kalshi an extension to respond, it marked the first significant regulatory hurdle for the company at the state level.

    At the federal level, prediction markets have faced ongoing uncertainty. Kalshi previously won a critical court battle against the CFTC, which permitted the expansion of these markets, especially around elections and major sports events. However, changes within the CFTC—such as former Kalshi board member Brian Quintenz being nominated as chairman—suggest a potential softening in regulatory attitudes.

    The CFTC recently announced plans for a discussion panel to evaluate prediction markets, receiving numerous submissions primarily from tribal entities strongly opposed to market expansion due to sovereignty and exclusivity concerns. Meanwhile, industry operators, including DraftKings, have begun exploring these markets, signaling growing interest and possible future expansion.

  • Evoke plc Reports Strong H2 Performance, Driving 2024 Revenue Growth

    Evoke plc reported a revenue of £1.8 billion for 2024, reflecting a 3% increase from the previous year. This growth was primarily driven by a strong performance in the second half of the year (H2), where revenue rose by 8%, compared to a 2% decline in the first half (H1). The company attributed this success to strategic improvements and product enhancements.

    Financial Performance and Cost Savings

    Adjusted EBITDA grew by 4% to £312 million, with H2 contributing 63% of the total. EBITDA performance was even more skewed, with H2 accounting for 85% of the yearly total. Evoke highlighted that it met all targets set in H1 to drive profitability in H2, including a £30 million cost reduction program, improved marketing strategies, and enhanced product offerings.

    Revenue Breakdown: UK Market Dominance

    Online revenue increased by 6% to £1.2 billion, with the UK contributing 55.2% and international markets making up 44.5%. UK online revenue saw a 9% rise, while international revenue grew by 7%. However, UK retail revenue declined by 5%. In response, Evoke rolled out a new fleet of betting machines between October 2024 and March 2025 to address this issue.

    During the company’s earnings call, CFO Sean Wilkins clarified that while strong sports results in Q4 helped performance, they merely offset weaker outcomes earlier in the year. Overall, sporting results remained neutral for the year.

    The company achieved £48 million in cost savings through a streamlined operating model, increased automation, faster product releases, and improved supply chain efficiency.

    Shift Towards Higher-Value Customers

    Evoke noted a shift towards higher-value customers, leading to fewer bets but increased revenue per customer. This was attributed to enhanced personalization in betting promotions and the introduction of new features like the bet builder on its William Hill platform.

    Sustainable Growth and Market Expansion

    CEO Per Widerström emphasized that Evoke is positioned for sustainable and profitable growth, with regulated revenue reaching 95% of the total, up from 94% in 2023 and 90% in 2022. The company strengthened its presence in key markets, including the UK, Italy, Spain, and Denmark, and expanded into Romania through its acquisition of Winner.ro in August 2024.

    Evoke significantly reduced its exposure to unregulated markets, now making up just 4% of its business compared to 13% in 2021. This aligns with its strategy to focus on stable, well-regulated markets, particularly in the UK, where upcoming regulatory changes are expected.

    Market Share and Future Developments

    The company’s William Hill Online brand holds a 9% share of the UK market, while its retail business commands 22%. In Romania, its newly acquired business, including 888 Casino, has secured a 7% market share.

    Evoke plans to introduce further product enhancements in 2025, particularly for its racing and football betting platforms, following positive customer feedback.

    Financial Stability and Outlook

    Gross profit remained relatively stable at £1.15 billion (+1.6%), while the company reported a small operating loss of £200,000, compared to a £24.2 million profit the previous year. Capital expenditure stood at approximately £100-110 million, including a £20 million one-time payment for its exit from the US market and £10 million for the Winner acquisition.

    Despite these expenses, Evoke remains focused on long-term growth, though net debt increased slightly (0.5%) by year-end. The company remains committed to improving profitability and market positioning in 2025.

  • FanDuel Launches Generative AI Betting Assistant in Sportsbook App

    FanDuel has introduced AceAI, a new generative AI feature within its sportsbook app designed to help users analyze data and place bets more efficiently. The tool is currently available for NBA and NFL betting, with plans to support additional sports in the future.

    AceAI allows users to interact through text or voice to build parlays, find betting options, and access player and team stats. For example, it can help create a parlay involving LeBron James’ performance or pull up his recent scoring averages.

    The feature is currently being tested with about 1% of FanDuel’s users. Future updates may include in-game betting, Next Gen Stats, and cross-sport parlays. A broader rollout, potentially aligned with the upcoming NFL season, has not yet been confirmed.

    Alongside FanDuel’s launch, the PGA Tour is also embracing AI. Its new Tourcast feature, developed with AWS, uses generative AI to generate text commentary for every shot at PGA Tour events. The AI provides real-time insights into each player’s performance and competition context.

    These developments highlight how AI is becoming increasingly embedded in the sports industry—from enhancing betting experiences to improving content delivery. While tools like AceAI promise greater speed and personalization, they also raise concerns about responsible gambling. FanDuel says AceAI includes safeguards, such as flagging risky behavior and pointing users to support resources.

    The full rollout of AceAI remains uncertain, but it signals how major operators are turning to AI to stay ahead in the competitive iGaming landscape.

  • Croatia Shakes Up Gambling Laws with Stricter Rules and Higher Taxes

    Croatia is making waves in the gambling world by unveiling a bold set of regulatory changes aimed at tightening control over the industry. The government has announced a range of measures targeting gambling addiction, underage betting, and the growing influence of illegal operators.

    One of the central themes of the reform is the tightening of advertising laws. Gambling promotions will face new restrictions — including daytime ad bans and a ban on celebrity endorsements. The goal is to reduce the visibility of gambling, especially among younger audiences. That concern is warranted: recent data shows a large percentage of Croatian teenagers have tried gambling, with some already at risk of addiction.

    In addition to new rules on advertising, the country is also introducing self-exclusion programs and banning self-service betting terminals in public spaces like cafés and restaurants. These steps mark a significant shift in how Croatia wants gambling to be perceived — not as entertainment everywhere, but as a regulated product with boundaries.

    Perhaps the most controversial part of the overhaul is financial. Licensing fees for both online and land-based operators are going up by around 50%, and tax brackets for player winnings are being restructured. This raises questions about the future of smaller operators, who may find it hard to absorb these increased costs. Some experts believe it could spark a wave of mergers or market exits.

    Despite these challenges, many view the changes as necessary. The Croatian government is also stepping up efforts to fight the black market, which remains a significant problem. Past attempts to block illegal gambling sites through IP restrictions haven’t worked as hoped. Now the authorities are shifting focus toward monitoring payment providers — a move designed to cut off funding to unlicensed operators.

    As the industry adjusts, licensed companies may end up carrying a heavier regulatory burden, but they could also benefit if enforcement finally levels the playing field. With the legal market growing year by year, Croatia hopes this new regulatory framework will balance economic opportunity with better consumer protection.

    What remains to be seen is whether these new rules will genuinely shrink the black market — or simply drive more players toward it in search of fewer restrictions. Either way, Croatia’s gambling sector is entering a new era, one defined by greater oversight and higher stakes.

  • OpenBet Transitions to Independent Ownership in $450M Management Buyout

    OpenBet has officially completed its $450 million management buyout, marking a major shift in ownership from Endeavor to a leadership group headed by current CEO Jordan Levin and other senior executives. The acquisition was finalized through OB Global Holdings LLC, a company formed to take over the business with a combination of cash and debt financing. Notably, Endeavor’s own CEO, Ari Emanuel, is involved in the deal on a personal level.

    The move positions OpenBet to operate independently, with plans to accelerate its growth and innovation in the sports betting technology space. The company sees this new chapter as a chance to strengthen its position across global markets, backed by a strong product portfolio and seasoned leadership.

    IMG Arena Deal with Sportradar

    Just days before the OpenBet buyout was completed, Sportradar struck a deal to acquire Endeavor’s IMG Arena, a prominent sports data provider. The arrangement includes a $125 million payment to Sportradar, plus $100 million in reimbursements to sports rights holders. Until regulatory approval is finalized – expected in Q4 2025 – OB Global Holdings will continue to manage IMG Arena operations.

    The sale of both OpenBet and IMG Arena follows Endeavor’s decision to streamline its portfolio ahead of a $13 billion private equity buyout by Silver Lake. Endeavor had originally acquired OpenBet in 2022 for $800 million in a push to expand its footprint in the growing global sports betting market.

    However, the market has since shifted. Many top-tier operators have started building their own proprietary betting platforms, moving away from third-party solutions. This trend has impacted providers like OpenBet and its competitors, leading to a reevaluation of long-term strategies.

    OpenBet Eyes Growth, Especially in Brazil

    Despite changes in the market landscape, OpenBet remains optimistic about its future as an independent supplier. The company sees significant growth potential in newly regulated markets – particularly Brazil, where it has already secured key partnerships.

    OpenBet is powering the online betting operations for Todos Querem Jogar, a brand backed by Grupo Silvio Santos. It’s also behind BandBet, an online sportsbook launched in collaboration with Bell Ventures and branded through an agreement with Brazilian media giant Grupo Bandeirantes .

    These strategic moves highlight OpenBet’s ambition to become a leading player in Brazil’s rapidly evolving betting landscape. The company has emphasized its commitment to delivering scalable, regulation-ready betting experiences tailored to local markets.

    Beyond Brazil, OpenBet continues to support some of the industry’s most recognizable names, including FanDuel, Paddy Power, Sky Bet, Ladbrokes, BetMGM, and national lottery operators like Nederlandse Loterij, OPAP, Singapore Pools, and Danske Spil.

    With a renewed focus and independent direction, OpenBet aims to carve out a strong position in the global iGaming ecosystem.

  • The Multiple Group partners with Delasport to enhance AI-driven sportsbook offering

    International iGaming technology provider The Multiple Group has entered into a strategic partnership with award-winning sportsbook solutions provider Delasport, aiming to significantly enhance their sports betting product.

    Known across the industry for delivering precise, user-friendly platforms, The Multiple Group emphasizes rigorous in-house testing to guarantee top-tier quality for all its products.

    Delasport has built its reputation on delivering innovative sportsbook technologies, highlighted by advanced AI-powered risk management and tailored betting experiences that significantly boost player engagement and satisfaction.

    This collaboration is one of several sportsbook partnerships Delasport has secured since the start of 2025, further underscoring the popularity of its Plug & Play sportsbook solution among both operators and players. Through this alliance, customers of The Multiple Group will benefit from an unparalleled sports betting experience, featuring personalized content, unique betting functionalities, and seamless usability across multiple devices.

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