Gambling in the USA
XB Net pens exclusive long-term deal with NYRA to secure status as premier North American racing supplier

New York Racing Association agrees exclusive broadcast and content rights with leading Stateside supplier after Belmont Stakes success
XB Net, a product of 1/ST TECHNOLOGY’s world-class data and media management service, has agreed to exclusive new deal terms with the New York Racing Association (NYRA) to bolster their ongoing partnership for the content rights, data, odds and signals from a host of top-class racecourses.
This agreement comprises broadcast and video streaming distribution rights from NYRA which feature over 1,000 days of racing each year from 18 racetracks, and showcase marquee venues such as Belmont Park, Aqueduct, and Saratoga – the three largest thoroughbred tracks in the state of New York.
The contract incorporates exclusive international broadcasting rights for the United Kingdom & Ireland, Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Africa, thereby broadening the appeal and scope of North American racing via XB Net’s growing global group of partners.
This breakthrough partnership also leverages natural synergies in content-provision between NYRA and The Stronach Group’s 1/ST RACING venues, including Gulfstream Park, Santa Anita Park, Golden Gate Fields, Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course, whose innovative content and betting services XB Net represents. Their flagship television simulcast program has been seen to good effect on Sky Sports and its At The Races digital channels in recent months, providing viewers with high-class nightly coverage.
XB Net’s broader provision of live pictures, data and betting services from an unrivalled network of over 50 North American tracks (accounting for roughly 90% of U.S. horse racing) enables its operator partners to flexibly fill their daily programming schedules with a steady stream of rapid-cycle betting opportunities that are proven to increase activity and engagement for new and existing customers alike.
1/ST TECHNOLOGY is the digital arm of The Stronach Group, horse racing’s largest racing and gaming company and the leading provider of premium content for North American horse racing.
Tony Allevato, NYRA Chief Revenue Officer & President of NYRA Bets, said: “NYRA is pleased to expand our partnership with XB Net to further broaden the international reach of North American thoroughbred racing. Sports fans and bettors around the world can look forward to even more coverage of top quality racing from the best venues in the United States.â€
Simon Fraser, Senior Vice President of International at XB Net, added: “It’s great to see NYRA and the 1/ST RACING racetracks working in unison to return value back to North American racing in these challenging times. Securing this long-term collaboration confirms XB Net’s commitment to the sport and our wider status as the leading international provider of North American racing. This deal is a ringing endorsement of our business model and the combined diligence of our multi-faceted team.
“During the present pandemic, North American racing has been one of very few elite sports that has been able to maintain both a solid timetable and a high bar for quality and data integrity with fast-settling content that can fill the gaps for live sport, wherever you set your scene on the map. Record engagement levels around the Belmont Stakes proved another eloquent case in point – it’s fantastic to see the sport’s popularity surge.â€
Gambling in the USA
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa Named Luckiest Casino in US by Casinos.com

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa has been named the luckiest casino in the US according to a recent study conducted by Casinos.com. The resort claimed the top spot based on an in-depth analysis of Tripadvisor reviews, measuring the frequency of luck-related keyword mentions.
With a 25.49% luck rate, Seminole Hard Rock Tampa topped the list thanks to glowing guest feedback, including frequent mentions of jackpots, hand pays and bonus wins. 50 reviews mentioned the word “jackpot,†and 19 even referenced a “hand pay.â€
Casinos.com tracked keywords such as lucky, luck, won, winning, success, jackpot, hand pay, winner, bonus, profit to determine which U.S. casinos inspired the most winning moments among visitors.
“I hit 4 jackpots. I stayed one night. I had a blast. The machines are as loose as anywhere else,†wrote one Tripadvisor reviewer, noted Casinos.com, capturing the essence of why the casino landed in the No. 1 spot.
“We’ve always known this was a lucky casino, but it’s exciting to see that recognized through data-driven research. It’s a testament to the vibrant energy on our casino floor and the unforgettable experiences we strive to create for every guest,†said Steve Bonner, President of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa.
The ranking reinforces Seminole Hard Rock Tampa’s reputation as one of the premier gaming and entertainment destinations in the US. Seminole Hard Rock Tampa was not involved in the study and was unaware of it until the results were publicly released.
Over the past year, Seminole Hard Rock Tampa has paid out nearly 839,000 jackpots totaling more than $2.45 billion, continuing to deliver thrilling high-stakes gaming. Since May 1, 2024, the casino resort has awarded 375 jackpots of $100,000 or more, amounting to an impressive $61 million in winnings. Notably, 47 of those massive wins stemmed from bets of $5 or less and nine came from wagers of $3 or less.
Seminole Hard Rock Tampa offers a fully integrated casino experience with a sleek, modern design and welcoming atmosphere of 245,000 square feet of gaming space and entertainment. With 5230 of the hottest slot machines and a full range of table games such as poker, blackjack and baccarat, there is no shortage of opportunities to win. Additionally, guests can enjoy live craps, roulette, and sports betting at their leisure.
Gambling in the USA
California Gambling Control Commission Advances Licensing, Tribal Partnerships, and Responsible Gaming Initiatives

Sacramento, CA — In a meeting packed with regulatory updates and licensing decisions, the California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) convened on April 24 to advance numerous agenda items impacting the state’s gambling landscape—from tribal gaming approvals to responsible gambling programs and operator renewals.
Problem Gambling & Public Health Takes the Stage
The Commission meeting opened with a presentation by Sosha Marasigan-Quintero from the California Department of Public Health, offering an overview and update on the California Problem Gambling Treatment Services Program. While no specific staff recommendations were provided, the update underscores California’s continued focus on behavioral health in gambling.
Tribal Revenue Distribution Approved
The Commission approved the quarterly distribution of payments from the Revenue Sharing Trust Fund to eligible recipient Indian Tribes. This routine, yet vital, procedure ensures the equitable distribution of revenue to support tribal sovereignty and infrastructure across the state.
Cardroom Licensing: Approvals and Extensions
Among key licensing matters:
-
500 Club Casino (K & M Casinos, Inc.) received both initial and renewal owner-type license approvals through January 2027.
-
Casino Chico, Hollywood Park Casino, and Lake Bowl Cardroom were granted renewals and short-term extensions, some with conditions such as improving record-keeping systems or ensuring regulatory compliance ahead of reopening.
-
Hotel Del Rio & Casino was granted a 60-day extension under several strict conditions, including updated safety plans and the restatement of commingled financial records.
Key Employee Licensing Actions
The Commission approved several initial and renewal key employee licenses. Notably:
-
Jeffrey Thompson was approved with a condition prohibiting involvement in illegal gambling activities.
-
Kevin Lee and George Rahme received 120-day extensions for renewal processing.
Third-Party Proposition Player Services Under Scrutiny
The Commission approved both initial and temporary licenses for Fortune Players Group, Inc., with a lengthy list of conditions tied to the conduct of a former associate, Rene Medina. These conditions highlight the Commission’s ongoing vigilance in monitoring third-party player services and maintaining compliance across operations.
Progressive Gaming, LLC was also approved for an initial license, further expanding third-party service provider capacity.
Gaming Resource Suppliers & Tribal Approvals
Initial suitability findings for several prominent tribal gaming resource suppliers were approved, including:
-
HCAL, LLC
-
JCM Global
-
Konami Gaming, Inc.
-
PDS Gaming, LLC
Dozens of tribal gaming employees were also approved for key positions at tribal casinos across California, reflecting the Commission’s continued support of tribal gaming operations and the necessary workforce to support it.
Notable Withdrawals and Denials
In two notable cases, requests to withdraw license applications—Josephine Hoang and Jesus Bojorquez—were denied, signaling the Commission’s increased scrutiny and emphasis on applicant accountability.
A Broader Look Ahead
With regulatory reform on the horizon and ongoing efforts to promote responsible gaming, the April 2025 CGCC meeting showcased a mix of routine license management and deeper engagement with emerging compliance issues. As the Commission prepares for the next quarter, the groundwork laid in this session will likely influence policy developments and enforcement trends across California’s gambling sector.
Gambling in the USA
NEW YORK CASINO IN MEXICO WELCOMES CONCEPT AND NEW GAMES FROM ZITRO

The renowned Mexican operator Logrand has installed Zitro’s new CONCEPT cabinets and a selection of its latest games at the New York Casino in Monterrey.
Building on its global success, the CONCEPT cabinet line stands out for its Magic Lighting, immersing players in a synchronized light display, resulting in a unique sensory experience. Furthermore, the cabinet’s large Screen Deck blends comfort with intuitive functionality, optimizing the experience for players and operational teams.
The installation of the CONCEPT cabinets is complemented by the addition of the medieval-themed multi-game Legendary Sword, in which players can double their prizes through unique mechanics with the help of a magic sword.
On the other hand, Fairyland Quest takes players to an enchanted forest where Magic Mushrooms give access to a different bonus each, while a friendly Fairy will give a special bonus that doubles the playing area.
Juan David Baracaldo, Director of Operations and Product, highlighted: “The addition of Zitro’s CONCEPT cabinets is a great step to continue offering unique and high-quality experiences to our players. The unique combination of technology, spectacular graphics, and the experience these cabinets offer will further elevate our casino’s entertainment offering.â€
For his part, Johnny Ortiz Viveiros, founder of Zitro, expressed: “We are very excited to strengthen our partnership with Logrand, a strategic partner that shares our vision of providing exceptional gaming experiences. The new CONCEPT cabinets and games like Legendary Sword and Fairyland Quest are just the beginning of what will transform how players enjoy entertainment.â€
-
Latest News7 days ago
JCM Global Transforms Chinook Winds Casino Resort’s Casino Floor with Towering Digital Signage at High Limit Area
-
Canada7 days ago
High Roller Submits Gaming License Application in Ontario
-
Latest News7 days ago
BetMGM Partners with Las Vegas Aces
-
Latest News7 days ago
AGS Celebrates Nine Straight Years as a Best and Brightest Company to Work For in the Nation and Atlanta
-
Latest News3 days ago
BGaming Enhances LatAm Presence with Betcris Partnership
-
Compliance Updates3 days ago
Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Announces Settlement with High5Games over Operation of Illegal Online Casino
-
Latest News3 days ago
Amusnet Teams Up with Betsson to Solidify Brazilian Market Position
-
Canada3 days ago
OLG Advances Inclusion with First-of-its-kind Accessible iCasino Game