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Estelarbet, the Latin American leader in Sports Predictions, launches operations in Ecuador
Estelarbet, a Latin American leader in Sports Betting, launched its operation at the Atahualpa Stadium in Quito.
The Atahualpa Stadium in Quito was once again a meeting place, but this time we’re not talking about a Copa Libertadores final or a concert by Marc Anthony or Romeo Santos. This time, it was a Sports Betting platform that was launched and presented to the Ecuadorian audience, especially those from Quito.
In an unprecedented event, this brand, which is also present in Brazil, Peru, and Chile, held a unique showcase encounter. The match featured Club Atlético Vinotinto (the team of the renowned Luis “Pichu” Escalada) against the “All-Star Team” of Estelarbet (composed of TV personalities, influencers, and former players). Club Atlético Vinotinto emerged victorious, claiming the coveted Estelarbet Cup 2023. This event took place on Friday, August 25th, at 9:00 PM in prime time, following the Liga Pro match between Club Deportivo El Nacional and Cumbaya S.C, which ended in a 2-2 draw.
The launch of Estelarbet comes in the context of the legalization of sports betting sites, with their tax regulation established by the Organic Law for the Strengthening of Family Economy, approved by the Constitutional Court on June 16 of the current year. The law introduced a 15% tax for Sports Betting companies domiciled in Ecuador, calculated based on total generated income and commissions minus paid prizes. For companies not domiciled in Ecuador, the 15% tax will be calculated on the monthly betting value. This law, which is already in effect, establishes a tax framework that will apply to these companies starting January 1, 2024.
During the event on August 25th, Estelarbet also participated in a press conference with the presence of around 12 major media outlets from the country, where we revealed some of the upcoming surprises. Estelarbet’s CEO, Sebastián Salazar, stated: “We are very excited to start our operations in the country. As you know, there are sports betting sites of all kinds, but we are a Latin American sports betting site. Our company will start hiring local staff and establishing offices here. For us as a company, Ecuador has always been a country we’ve been looking at and have had an interest in participating in. There’s a recent legislative change, and we believe that this legislative change, which introduces a 15% tax for sports betting companies, is quite positive from the perspective of fiscal revenue. We are thrilled to be able to offer an attractive and differentiated range of markets and an entertaining offering to captivate the Ecuadorian audience and also contribute to the country’s sports development.”
In line with Ecuador, other countries in the region are currently processing local regulations. Peru has already approved its regulations, Chile is currently in discussion, several provinces in Argentina have operational regulations, and Brazil has approved regulations for sports betting sites, although there’s no clarity on the effective date of their complementary rules. Colombia has had regulations since 2017, and the fiscal revenue from betting contributes to financing healthcare for Colombians through Coljuegos.
Estelarbet offers over 30,000 markets every month for a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, MMA, baseball, and many more. Their platform is available on both Android and IOS. Additionally, they highlight that they are in the process of integrating with all available payment methods in Ecuador, they have payment networks in stores, and they provide 24/7 online support.
As CEO Sebastián emphasized: “It was a magical night; Tri players were invited, but unfortunately, they had work commitments. Our prizes dazzled, we shared with clients, influencers, and company partners in an exclusive dinner. At Estelarbet, we are committed to bringing a next-level gaming and entertainment experience to Ecuador. We are filled with excitement as we commence our journey in Ecuador, positioning ourselves as the Sports Betting platform where stars play.”
Gaming
10-15% Of Gamers In Florida Show Signs Of Gaming Addiction: Here Are 10 Signs Your Kid Is Suffering From It (And How You Can Help)
Recent studies indicate that 10-15% of young gamers in Florida exhibit signs of gaming addiction. These findings underscore the need for early identification of symptoms to prevent negative impacts on children’s mental and physical health. Gaming addiction, if not dealt with, can lead to poor academic performance, social withdrawal, and even health problems.
Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO of FreezeNova, discusses key indicators of gaming addiction and offers practical advice for parents.
Recognizing Early Signs
“Early recognition of gaming addiction is crucial in preventing long-term negative outcomes,” Marin explains. The following signs can help parents identify if their child might be developing an addiction:
Exhaustion and Irritability
Constant tiredness and grumpiness during the day could indicate late-night gaming sessions interfering with sleep.
Gaming Obsession
If gaming dominates your child’s thoughts and conversations, and they plan their day around it while neglecting other responsibilities, it could be a sign of addiction.
Decline in Academic Performance and Lost Interests
A noticeable decline in academic performance or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities may suggest your child is prioritizing gaming over more important tasks.
Emotional Volatility
Extreme emotional reactions to in-game outcomes, such as uncontrolled anger, known as ‘Gamer Rage’, or intense celebrations, could indicate an unhealthy attachment to gaming.
Physical Strain
Signs of repetitive strain injuries like ‘Gamer’s Thumb’ or ‘Nintendo Neck’ from prolonged screen time are warning signals.
Neglecting Basic Needs
If your child is neglecting basic needs like eating, sleeping, or hygiene to keep playing, gaming has likely taken an unhealthy control over their life.
Creating a Supportive Environment
While video games can be a great source of entertainment and connection, around 70% of people with signs of gaming addiction also experience social disorders. Marin recommends a few tips for building a supportive and open environment for your child.
Teamwork and Setting Boundaries
“Parents and children should work together to create a healthy gaming environment. Gaming addiction requires a holistic approach,” Marin advises. Start by setting clear boundaries on gaming time to ensure there’s room for schoolwork, chores, and quality family time.
Revisit activities your child once loved, like football practice or exploring new hobbies together. It’s vital for your child to take breaks from screens, so create a balanced daily routine that includes homework, chores, exercise and just some gaming time. This allows your child to enjoy their games without neglecting other aspects of their life.
Open Communication
Maintain open communication. Discuss the games your child enjoys and any concerns you might have. By understanding their world, you can work together to find solutions.
Remember, you’re not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, seek professional help from specialists in gaming addiction. Marin concludes, “By working as a team, setting clear boundaries, and fostering open communication, we can help your child develop a healthy relationship with gaming and thrive in all areas of life.”
Bally’s Interactive, the digital and sports betting division of Bally’s Corporation, has launched the all-new Bally Bet Sportsbook & Casino app in Ontario, Canada. This latest release marks another significant milestone for the company, following the recent app update in New Jersey and a series of successful app launches in the past year, including the introduction of Bally Bet Sportsbook across multiple states and Bally Casino in Rhode Island.
The updated Bally Bet Sportsbook & Casino app represents a major step forward, as it combines the functionalities of the existing Bally Casino app and Bally Bet Sportsbook app into one comprehensive platform. Powered by White Hat Gaming, this new app allows players residing in or traveling to Ontario to conveniently place wagers on both sports and casino games using a single app, account, and universal wallet.
“We are thrilled to introduce the new Bally Bet Sportsbook & Casino app, marking a significant milestone for Bally’s. This integrated platform merges the features of our previous apps, providing players in Ontario with a seamless experience for both sports and casino betting. Our commitment to enhancing the player experience remains at the forefront as we strive to personalize the enjoyment of playing Bally Bet,” said Robeson Reeves, CEO of Bally’s Corporation.
PENN Entertainment Inc. has launched its stand-alone Hollywood Casino app in Pennsylvania. Built on PENN’s proprietary technology platform, Hollywood Casino offers more than 700 iCasino games, a variety of daily promotions, and exciting jackpots.
Available on Android, iOS and desktop, customers in the Keystone State can access Hollywood Casino through either the ESPN BET app or through the new Hollywood Casino app using their same ESPN BET login credentials, allowing for a seamless experience across PENN’s online betting and casino platforms. PENN plans to launch Hollywood Casino in additional jurisdictions in 2025, subject to regulatory approvals.
Hollywood Casino features a variety of online slots, table games and live dealer content, including bespoke live dealer tables and a dedicated “Casino Floor” lobby that allows users to easily find virtual versions of their favorite slot games from PENN’s retail properties. Hollywood Casino also features original titles from PENN Game Studios, PENN’s in-house casino game development studio that has produced a number of popular online games, including Legendary LarryTM and Wuji MinesTM.
“We’re excited to launch Hollywood Casino as a stand-alone app in Pennsylvania, giving our customers access to their favorite games in a dedicated, casino-first experience. With four Hollywood Casino properties in the state, the app leverages our trusted retail brand and creates a seamless connection between our online and retail gaming experiences. We look forward to bringing this enhanced Hollywood Casino experience to more iCasino markets in early 2025, pending regulatory approvals,” said Aaron LaBerge, Chief Technology Officer at PENN Entertainment.
Hollywood Casino is also fully integrated with PENN Play, the Company’s omnichannel loyalty program that allows members to earn and redeem rewards, including PENN Cash, exclusive tier benefits and personalized services.
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