The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued a cease-and-desist order to BetUS, an offshore gambling operator, for illegally offering internet gaming and sports betting to Michigan residents without proper licensure.

Investigations by the MGCB revealed that BetUS was accepting wagers from Michigan residents on various gambling activities, including sports and casino-style games, without the necessary state authorization. This operation violates Michigan’s Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the Michigan Penal Code.

“Unlicensed operators like BetUS undermine the integrity of Michigan’s regulated gaming market and expose consumers to potential risks. The MGCB is committed to protecting Michigan residents by ensuring that all gambling activities are conducted legally and responsibly,” said Henry Williams, Executive Director of MGCB.

The cease-and-desist order mandates that BetUS immediately halt all operations involving Michigan residents. The company has 14 days to comply or face further legal action in coordination with the Michigan Department of Attorney General.

Leading Brazilian Betting Brand Reals Welcomes Former Itaú and Votorantim Executive to Drive Human Capital Development

Reals, one of Brazil’s leading regulated online betting and gaming platforms, has announced the appointment of Giorgia Kasat as its new Head of Human Resources. With over 20 years of experience in strategic people management, organizational transformation, and leadership development, Giorgia brings a wealth of expertise from her roles at major corporations such as Votorantim, Banco Itaú, Duratex, Capgemini, and Munksjö.

Recognized as a finalist in the 2024 “Most Admired CEOs and HR Leaders” awards by Grupo Gestão RH, Giorgia also holds an Executive Business degree from Fundação Dom Cabral, an MBA in Business Management from Fundação Getúlio Vargas (FGV), and certification in Group Psychodrama from PUC-SP.

“We believe that a company’s success is directly linked to its ability to foster the best in its people within a healthy, growth-oriented environment. Giorgia’s human-centered leadership style drives engagement and positive results. As a serious and regulated company, professionalism is a core value for us, and her arrival is a strategic step in our organizational growth,” said Hilton Andrade, CFO of Reals.

Giorgia expressed enthusiasm about joining Reals at a pivotal moment for the company and the industry: “I’m excited to take on this new challenge with a major player in the betting and online gaming industry. My passion lies in developing people who go on to inspire and empower others. Together, we’ll build a strong culture of growth, diversity, and performance in a sector that is rapidly consolidating in Brazil and globally.”

Reals Expands Workforce and Strengthens Market Presence

Amid rapid expansion, Reals is in the process of hiring approximately 1500 new employees and preparing to move into a new 6,000 m² headquarters in São Paulo. Already a standout in the market, Reals made headlines earlier this year by becoming the first Brazilian betting operator to sponsor a major European football club, AC Milan, as its Official Regional Betting Partner for Latin America.

Reals also holds a master sponsorship with Coritiba Foot Ball Club in Brazil and boasts an all-star ambassador roster led by TV personality Rodrigo Faro, alongside popular influencers Ítalo Sena, Edu Primitivo, and Gabi Nery.

With a 9.5 rating on Reclame Aqui, Reals is among the top-rated licensed betting operators in Brazil, reinforcing its reputation for reliability and customer trust.

Two proven game technology companies are joining forces in what promises to be a devilish collaboration that disrupts the iGaming industry. 

Design Works Gaming (DWG) and Bluberi Gaming announced an exciting partnership that will bring together DWG’s chart-topping LuckyTap™ mechanic and Bluberi’s top-performing titles.

Fueled by a unique mix of creativity, innovation and undeniable player appeal, Bluberi has made waves with their iconic games, including their breakout hit Devil’s Lock™.

Enter DWG — the team behind the proprietary LuckyTap™ mechanic. Known for blending simplicity with explosiveness, DWG’s games consistently top the charts and deliver next-level engagement.

“Devil’s Lock has always topped our favorites list when we hit the casino floor as a team. And just a few months ago, as we were trying our luck with the Devil, inspiration struck. We knew we could turn up the heat and reimagine this fan-favorite as a high-voltage LuckyTap™,” said founder and CEO of DWG Troy Zurawski. “Bluberi brings the legendary IP, and we bring the power of LuckyTap™.”

This partnership kicks off a new era for both companies—one where creative chaos reigns and boundaries are pushed. Together, DWG and Bluberi are cooking up gameplay that’s bold, mischievous and unruly.

“Partnering with Design Works Gaming marks a new milestone in iGaming for Bluberi’s iGaming strategy,” said Scott Richards, VP of Commercial Strategy at Bluberi. “DWG’s LuckyTap™ is a proven game-changing technology that pushes boundaries and resonates with Bluberi’s approach to developing unique gaming experiences. Our teams share a passion for pushing boundaries and delivering unforgettable player experiences. We can’t wait to unveil what we’re creating together.”