Latest News
Are Americans spending their stimulus checks on online casino gambling?

The IRS has now sent out more than 130 million stimulus checks as part of President Biden’s American Rescue Plan. The payments are designed to stimulate spending and help kick-start the US economy, and when the plan was first announced, most Americans said the money would go towards essential expenses like groceries, bills and housing costs. However, there are indications that at least some are using the windfall to speculate with casino games and sports betting.
A booming sector
Some could argue that the gambling sector is one of the few American industries that is not in need of extra stimulation. True, gambling hubs like Las Vegas and Atlantic City felt the pinch harder than most, but evolving legislation has seen a dramatic upsurge in online casino activity across the US that has more than compensated for the revenue drops at land-based facilities over the past year.
It’s a pattern that has been repeated time and again, and not just in the US. Chief Editor Mark Pilarski of Casino Senpai said that they have observed a clear spike in interest worldwide on the topic of online casinos since last March.
Of course, the online gambling market is still in its infancy in the US compared to places like the UK and even Canada. Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania are still the only states that are fully open to online casino gambling, although Nevada also has online poker rooms. Still, in those states, gamblers have been making hay, and all have seen online gambling revenue increase dramatically since the first lockdown took effect 12 months ago.
Sports betting surge
Even if you include Nevada, that still accounts for only eight percent of the population, however, and while there has almost certainly been a certain amount of illicit online gambling activity across state lines, geofencing technology keeps that to a minimum.
The result has seen many would-be casino gamblers turn to the world of sports betting instead. Here, 25 states have now legalized, and more than half of them permit online betting. At the height of lockdown, when the major sports leagues were inactive, this led to the somewhat surreal sight of American sports fans betting on everything from soccer in Belarus to baseball in South Korea. eSport betting also saw a spike in interest.
However, it was when the major franchises got back underway that the full force of sport betting became obvious. Wagers placed on the NBA and NHL have been higher than previous years, and then, of course, at the beginning of February, we had the greatest sports betting barometer of them all in the shape of Super Bowl LV.
In the run up to the game, Bill Miller, the CEO and President of the American Gaming Committee, said: “This year’s Super Bowl is expected to draw the largest single-event legal handle in American sports betting history. With a robust legal market, Americans are abandoning illegal bookies and taking their action into the regulated marketplace in record numbers.”
Miller went on to predict that 7.6 million Americans would place their bets online, Some states have still to release their final numbers, but from the data available so far, it seems that Miller was right on the money. In New Jersey, Super Bowl betting more than doubled over the previous year, while in Pennsylvania it was up by more than 75 percent. Results like these more than make up for the 13 percent drop reported by Nevada due to lower numbers turning up for in-person betting on The Strip.
Recovery offline, too
Having said that, the news from Vegas and Atlantic City is not all bad – indeed, it is positively brimming with optimism compared with this time last year, and it all comes back around to those stimulus checks. Let’s be honest, if you are going to blow a thousand dollars or more at the casino, you’re more likely to want to do that in person than via a phone app.
Vegas is buzzing again since it reopened, and aside from the reduced numbers and the regular sight of people wearing masks, it almost feels like the Sin City of old. And after everything we have gone through, why not – surely there are few better places to celebrate spring break and spend a $1,400 windfall.
Latest News
Comprehensive Guide to Online Casino Payment Methods for NZ Players

Playcasino.co.nz has published a new comprehensive guide to payment methods for New Zealand online casino players. The guide highlights the growing popularity of mobile casino payment solutions among New Zealand players and provides detailed information about the various options available in the market.
According to industry observations, mobile payment solutions are becoming increasingly popular choices for online casinos transactions in New Zealand. This trend appears to align with the wider adoption of smartphone technology across the country and growing consumer demand for convenient, secure payment options.
“We’ve created this guide to help New Zealand players navigate the complex landscape of online casino payment options,” said Terri Radford, Content Director at www.playcasino.co.nz. “Payment methods like PayforIt and Zimpler are gaining traction because they align with how Kiwis prefer to manage their online entertainment spending—directly from their mobile devices, with enhanced security and spending controls.”
The guide emphasises that choosing the right payment method significantly impacts player experience, affecting everything from transaction speed to financial security. With online gambling continuing to grow in popularity in New Zealand, understanding available payment options has become essential for players seeking both security and convenience.
Payment Options Explained
The guide provides information on several payment methods currently available to New Zealand players:
- Mobile Solutions: PayforIt and Zimpler offer convenient mobile-based payment options. These services are particularly popular among younger players who prefer managing their gaming expenses directly through their mobile devices.
- E-Wallets: PayPal and Skrill are noted for their quick processing times, with PayPal being one of the few e-wallets supporting both deposits and withdrawals in New Zealand. E-wallets typically process deposits within minutes, which is considerably faster than traditional bank transfers.
- Traditional Methods: VISA/MasterCard remain widely used options, available at virtually all online casinos. Card payments continue to be a preferred method for many New Zealand players, particularly those who value familiarity and ease of use.
- Local Favourites: POLi has maintained strong usage among New Zealanders due to its immediate transaction times and absence of currency conversion fees. As a locally-developed solution, it has gained the trust of many New Zealand players.
- Cryptocurrency: Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies offer benefits for players who value transaction speed and withdrawal flexibility. While still considered alternative payment methods, cryptocurrencies like Ethereum and Litecoin are gaining acceptance at many online casinos serving the New Zealand market.
- Prepaid Options: Paysafecard and Neosurf provide prepaid voucher systems that are popular among players who prioritise privacy and spending control. These methods are particularly useful for players who wish to maintain strict budget limits on their gaming activities.
According to industry feedback, transaction speed and security measures are important considerations for New Zealand players when selecting a payment method. Many players also indicate a preference for payment methods that support both deposits and withdrawals, eliminating the need to register multiple services.
Understanding Player Preferences
The guide acknowledges that personal preferences significantly influence payment method choices, with factors such as spending habits, withdrawal frequency, and security concerns playing key roles in decision-making.
“Every player has unique requirements when it comes to managing their funds,” Radford noted. “Some prioritise absolute privacy with methods like Paysafecard, while others value the convenience of integrated solutions like POLi. Our goal is to help players make informed decisions that enhance their overall experience while practising responsible gaming.”
The guide also highlights several notable trends in the online casino payment landscape:
- Enhanced Security Features: Many payment providers now implement additional security measures like two-factor authentication and biometric verification, offering players greater peace of mind.
- Regional Solutions: Payment options specifically designed for the New Zealand market continue to be popular choices among local players who appreciate services tailored to their needs.
- Faster Withdrawals: Many online casinos now emphasise the speed of withdrawals as a key selling point, with some offering same-day or instant withdrawals for certain payment methods.
- Responsible Gaming Tools: Some payment methods now offer built-in spending limits and tracking features, which can be valuable tools for players committed to responsible gambling practices.
“The payment landscape for online casinos continues to evolve,” said Daniel Williams, Managing Director of Playcasino.co.nz. “Our observation is that successful online casinos in New Zealand tend to be those that offer a diverse range of payment options while prioritising both security and user experience. We’re also noticing increased interest in payment methods that support responsible gaming practices.”
Regional Considerations
The guide notes that preferences may vary across different regions of New Zealand. Urban players might have access to and comfort with a wider range of digital payment options, while players in rural areas might rely more heavily on traditional banking methods.
“These regional differences highlight the importance of offering a diverse range of payment options,” noted Radford. “The online casino market in New Zealand is not monolithic, and player preferences vary significantly based on location, age demographics, and technological comfort levels.”
About Playcasino.co.nz
Playcasino.co.nz is a leading online casino affiliate website that offers comprehensive guides, reviews, and the latest news tailored for New Zealand’s real money casino players. The site adheres to responsible gambling principles and provides resources to help players make informed choices.
In addition to payment method information, Play Casino offers detailed reviews of online casinos available to New Zealand players, up-to-date information on no deposit bonuses and promotions, and comprehensive guides on casino games and strategies. The site’s team regularly publishes informational content on various aspects of the online gambling industry, with a particular focus on the New Zealand market.
awards
Scientific Games Wins Two 2025 Communitas Awards for Excellence in Community Service

Company’s SG Tech Project and Women’s STEAM Careers Mentorship Volunteerism Earn Global Recognition
Scientific Games was recognized with two 2025 Communitas Awards for its impactful community service programs. With a company mission focused on serving communities worldwide, Scientific Games helps government-regulated lotteries generate tens of billions of dollars annually to fund their good cause programs, including health and welfare, education and environmental initiatives.
The global lottery company won both 2025 Communitas Awards in the category of Excellence in Community Service for the SG Tech Project and Women’s STEAM Careers Mentorship Volunteerism.
The Communitas Awards is a global initiative that honors outstanding businesses, organizations and individuals who generously share their time and resources. The awards also celebrate those who are transforming their business practices to have a positive impact on their communities.
2025 Communitas Excellence in Community Service – Organization’s Program: The SG Tech Project is a testament to Scientific Games’ dedication to environmental sustainability and education. Through the initiative, the company donates gently used, refurbished technology to local schools. The program provides local K-12 schools and after-school programs with essential technology tools for the classroom. SG Tech Project aligns with Scientific Games’ global environmental sustainability efforts by extending the life cycle of electronic devices and reducing e-waste. The donation is traditionally made on Earth Day each year in April.
2025 Communitas Excellence in Community Service – Company Volunteer Project: One of Scientific Games’ community initiatives is in partnership with Tech Alpharetta Women’s Forum STEAM Mentoring Program, designed to inspire and support young women interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics careers. The program, coordinated by Tech Alpharetta—a local association serving tech companies and professionals through educational programs—in partnership with the STEAM magnet high school Innovation Academy, pairs high school girls with experienced female professionals in STEAM fields. Throughout the academic year, through regular meetings and events, Scientific Games volunteer mentors Danielle Hodges (Senior Director, Instant Product Innovation), Hetal Suratwala (Director, Digital Client Operations) and Jennifer Ingram (Senior Director, Scientific Games Enhanced Partnership Operations) offer professional guidance and encouragement as students navigate their STEAM-focused academic and career paths.
“Receiving the Communitas Awards is a powerful reminder of our commitment to the communities we serve,” said Scientific Games CEO Pat McHugh. “Through initiatives like the SG Tech Project and our executive participation in a mentorship program for young women considering STEAM careers, we aim to empower and uplift those in our local community. We believe that by investing in education technology, the STEAM workforce of the future and environmental sustainability, we can make a lasting impact.”
With global operations spanning five continents, Scientific Games is the world’s largest creator, producer and manager of lottery games and a global leader in lottery and sports betting technology systems, digital lottery games, mobile apps and player loyalty programs. The company provides retail and digital games, technology, analytics and services to 150 lotteries in 50 countries around the globe.
Latest News
SOFTSWISS and Barrichello Team up with Sparco for SiGMA Americas

SOFTSWISS and Rubens Barrichello are launching an exclusive collaboration with the iconic motorsport brand Sparco. The limited-edition collection was revealed at the SiGMA Americas Summit in São Paulo.
Founded in 1977, Sparco aimed to bring more safety and fashion to motorsport. Over the decades, the brand has become synonymous with high-quality racing gear, reflecting its commitment to technology, innovation, and style. Today, Sparco is a globally recognised leader in motorsport apparel and equipment, trusted by professional drivers and racing enthusiasts.
Inspired by Rubens Barrichello’s remarkable racing career, the new Sparco casual-style collection brings together the worlds of motorsport and technology. It is a reminder that real success, whether on a race circuit or in the office, starts with daring to push beyond the limits.
Rubens Barrichello, Non-Executive Director in Latin America at SOFTSWISS, commented: “Sparco was with me at every turn. It’s not just a logo – it’s a symbol of reliability proven by speed. I’m proud to be working with the brand that supported me throughout my career – now in a new format”.
One standout feature of the collection is the number 111. It is instantly recognisable to Barrichello’s fans, as he celebrated numerous racing victories with it on board. Alongside this numeric design element, every item also features Rubens’ personal autograph.
The Office of Sparco Brazil commented: “In Brazil, motorsport isn’t just a sport – it’s part of our cultural DNA. Having a driver like Rubens Barrichello is a point of national pride. This collaboration is our way of capturing the energy that lives on the racetracks of São Paulo. It’s a story of speed, pride, and a uniquely Brazilian spirit”.
Visitors can book a meeting with the SOFTSWISS team until April 10 using this link.
About SOFTSWISS
SOFTSWISS is an international technology company with over 15 years of experience developing innovative solutions for the iGaming industry. SOFTSWISS holds a number of gaming licences and provides comprehensive software for managing iGaming projects. The company’s product portfolio includes the Online Casino Platform, the Game Aggregator with over 27,800 casino games, the Affilka Affiliate Platform, the Sportsbook Software and the Jackpot Aggregator. In 2013, SOFTSWISS revolutionised the industry by introducing the world’s first Bitcoin-optimised online casino solution. The expert team counts over 2,000 employees.
-
Latest News7 days ago
IGT Wheel of Fortune Video Poker Makes Global Debut at Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas
-
Latest News7 days ago
MLB Players Sign Licensing Agreement with PENN Entertainment
-
Latest News2 days ago
A247 Launch in Brazil Powered by Delasport’s Turnkey Solution
-
Canada4 days ago
Playnetic granted Ontario supplier license
-
Latest News4 days ago
AC Milan Announces New Partnership with Reals
-
Latest News4 days ago
All set for the start of the 2025 edition of BiS SiGMA Americas
-
Latest News4 days ago
BMM TESTLABS PROMOTES DANIEL MAGARINOS TO SENIOR DIRECTOR, GAMING – LATAM
-
Gambling in the USA3 days ago
Sky River Casino Guest Wins Half-million Dollars Playing Progressive Blackjack