Gambling in the USA
GiG powers into social sweepstake casino market, launching new SweepX solution with leading U.S. partner.

Gaming Innovation Group (GiG) has announced the launch of SweepX, a revolutionary social sweepstakes casino platform solution for the USA, with the release further bolstered by the announcement of a binding Head of Terms for a strategic partnership with Primero Games LLC, the largest land-based sweepstake operator in the states.
Designed to deliver a cutting-edge solution for the burgeoning sweepstakes market in the US, SweepX combines dual-wallet, store management for redemptions and prize-rewards, with GiG’s AI assisted content management technology to provide a prominent competitive advantage to operators across the market, driving significant growth and engagement across social sweepstakes casino gaming.
The landmark agreement will see GiG’s market-leading technology power Primero into the online social sweepstakes casino market for the first time. Founded in 2009, Primero Games specialises in developing innovative casino software and equipment for the gaming industry,with over 50,000 sweepstakes machines across the US, and also own Storm Games ltd, a UK retail operator and content studio. The collaboration will see Primero leverage its extensive player database to quickly expand into the online social sweepstakes casino market.
SweepX combines GiG’s highly successful real-money iGaming platform technology, which is currently live in the US, Europe and across Latin America, with a bespoke sweepstake back office, AI assisted gamification layer and one of the most comprehensive sweepstake casino content libraries available on the market, supporting immediate growth throughout the emerging US sweepstake market.
The sweepstakes gaming market saw enormous growth in 2020 due to pandemic market conditions, and it has continued to grow at a very healthy pace since. It is estimated that the sweeps market generated about $3.1 billion in 2022, and we project that it will continue to grow at a +31% CAGR, reaching $6.9 billion by 2025, as per data shared by E&K.
Andrew Cochrane, Chief Business Officer at GiG said; “GiG is synonymous with innovation and our SweepX solution is the result of our tireless pursuit of excellence for product innovation across the online sweepstake market. As an extremely experienced turnkey solutions provider, the strength inherent in our technology and services has allowed us to develop what we consider to be the leading platform, data and AI driven solutions available within social gaming, and will help power the growth of the market across the US within the next few years.”
Barry Rutherford, CEO at Primero, added; “GiG’s world class platform will allow us to bring more content and an experience for our players that is second to none. Combining our unique player acquisition strategy and GiG’s innovative technology, we are positioned perfectly for the US market and for iGaming markets across the globe.”
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.”
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.”
Gambling in the USA
Sky River Casino Guest Wins Half-million Dollars Playing Progressive Blackjack

Sky River Casino has announced that an Elk Grove resident has won a whopping $511,311 while playing progressive blackjack on March 31, 2025. The Sky River Rewards member hit the big win after playing the table game for less than an hour.
“Our progressive table games and slot machines continue to be really hot here at Sky River Casino. Our players have had an impressive number of life-changing jackpots and our winning streak continues. We look forward to the next big win and welcome adults near and far to visit to explore and enjoy our high-energy atmosphere, lively promotions, exciting gaming, and unparalleled dining experiences,” said Michael J. Facenda, President of Sky River Casino.
The lucky local guest plans to use her winnings to renovate a kitchen and build a house back home.
“Without question, the best part of my job is watching our valued members and guests experience jaw dropping wins like this one. We all share in the incredible excitement that is absolutely contagious and can be felt throughout the casino,” said Charleen Ripley, VP of Casino Operations for Sky River Casino.
-
Latest News7 days ago
Rising Digital chooses Continent 8 as strategic cybersecurity partner for US iGaming operations
-
Latest News7 days ago
EveryMatrix set for another standout year with strong Q1 performance
-
Latest News4 days ago
EGT Digital to make a debut at SAGSE Panama 2025
-
Latest News4 days ago
EGT’s innovative gaming solutions to be on display at SAGSE Panama 2025
-
Latest News4 days ago
LuckBet Launches New TV Commercial Starring Caio Castro on Sportv and Globoplay
-
Latest News3 days ago
CT Gaming Strengthens Its Presence with New Installations in Venezuela
-
Latest News3 days ago
Octoplay Launches Jackpot Blitz with BetMGM in Ontario, Accelerating North American Expansion
-
Latest News3 days ago
Club Atlético River Plate and Betano Announce Long-Term Principal Partnership