Daily Archives: May 10, 2023

A Tale of Two Continents: Comparing the Casino Cultures of Latin … – Sounds and Colours

Posted: May 10, 2023 at 10:32 am

By Sounds and Colours09 May, 2023

In recent years, the casino industry has experienced significant growth across the globe, with Latin America and Australia being two continents where casino culture has flourished. This article will discuss the rise of casino gaming in Latin America, explore the Australian casino culture, compare the land-based casinos in both regions, and delve into online casinos and gaming opportunities. We will also present a Wild Fortune casino review by Online Casino Hub, and discuss the impact of cultural differences on casino experiences. By the end of this article, readers will gain a better understanding of the casino cultures in Latin America and Australia, allowing them to make informed decisions when choosing their next gaming destination.

The casino industry in Latin America has experienced rapid growth over the past few decades, with several countries embracing the potential economic benefits that casinos can bring. The increasing number of tourists visiting the region has also contributed to the growth of the casino industry, as more travelers look for exciting gaming experiences during their vacations.

One of the most notable examples of the rise of casino gaming in Latin America is Argentina, which has seen a significant number of new casinos opening in recent years. With over 80 casinos currently in operation, Argentina is now one of the largest casino markets in the region. Other countries such as Chile, Panama, and Uruguay have also witnessed a surge in the number of casinos, catering to both tourists and local gamblers alike.

The growth of the casino industry in Latin America can also be attributed to the increasing popularity of online gaming. As internet access becomes more widespread throughout the region, more and more people are turning to online gambling platforms to enjoy their favorite casino games. This has led to a surge in the number of online casinos targeting the Latin American market, further fueling the growth of the industry.

Australia has long been known for its love of gambling, with a casino culture that rivals that of Las Vegas and Macau. With the countrys first casino opening in 1973, gambling has become a popular pastime for many Australians, and the casino industry has grown considerably in the years since.

One aspect of the Australian casino culture that sets it apart from other regions is its focus on pokies, or slot machines. Pokies are incredibly popular in Australia, with thousands of machines available in casinos, clubs, and pubs throughout the country. This has led to Australia having one of the highest per capita rates of gambling in the world, with a significant portion of this being attributed to pokies.

However, the Australian casino culture is not limited to just pokies. The country is home to several world-class casino resorts, such as Crown Melbourne and The Star Sydney, which offer a wide range of gaming options including table games, poker, and sports betting. These casinos attract both local gamblers and international tourists, contributing to Australias reputation as a premier gambling destination.

When comparing land-based casinos in Latin America and Australia, several key differences emerge. One of the most significant differences is the size and scale of the casinos. While Latin American casinos tend to be smaller and more focused on catering to local gamblers, Australian casinos are often larger and cater to a more diverse range of clientele.

In terms of gaming options, Australian casinos tend to offer a wider variety of games than their Latin American counterparts. As previously mentioned, pokies are incredibly popular in Australia, and this is reflected in the vast number of slot machines available in casinos across the country. In contrast, Latin American casinos tend to focus more on table games like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, with a smaller emphasis on slot machines.

Another notable difference between the two regions is the regulatory environment. While gambling is legal in most Latin American countries, the industry is subject to strict regulations and oversight. This has led to a relatively high level of transparency and accountability in the regions casinos. In Australia, the gambling industry is also regulated, but the focus is primarily on responsible gambling practices and ensuring that casinos adhere to strict standards in order to maintain their licenses.

The rise of the internet has forever changed the landscape of the casino industry, with online casinos now offering players the opportunity to enjoy their favorite games from the comfort of their own homes. Both Latin America and Australia have embraced the online casino industry, with numerous platforms targeting players in both regions.

In Latin America, the growth of online casinos has been particularly notable, as many people in the region now have access to the internet and are keen to explore new gaming opportunities. Online casinos targeting the Latin American market often offer a wide range of games, including popular table games like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, as well as a variety of slot machines.

Australia has also seen a surge in the popularity of online casinos, with many players choosing to play at online platforms rather than visiting land-based casinos. This has led to an increase in the number of online casinos targeting the Australian market, offering a wide range of gaming options to suit the preferences of local players.

When it comes to choosing an online casino, its important to find a platform that offers a great gaming experience, a wide range of games, and excellent customer support. One such platform is Wild Fortune, which has received positive reviews from players and industry experts alike. In their Wild Fortune casino review, Online Casino Hub highlights the platforms user-friendly interface, impressive game selection, and responsive customer support.

Wild Fortune offers players a diverse range of games, including popular slots, table games, and live dealer games, ensuring that theres something for everyone. The platform also boasts a generous welcome bonus for new players, as well as ongoing promotions and a loyalty program for regular customers.

With a focus on providing a safe and secure gaming environment, Wild Fortune employs advanced SSL encryption technology to protect players personal and financial information. In addition, the platform is licensed and regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority, ensuring that it adheres to strict industry standards.

When comparing the casino cultures of Latin America and Australia, its important to consider the impact of cultural differences on the overall gaming experience. While both regions share a love for gambling, the preferences and expectations of players can vary considerably.

In Latin America, the focus tends to be on socializing and enjoying the casino experience with friends and family. This is reflected in the popularity of table games like blackjack and roulette, which encourage interaction between players. In contrast, Australian casino culture places a strong emphasis on individual gaming experiences, with the popularity of pokies highlighting the appeal of playing alone or in small groups.

Furthermore, the regulatory environment in each region can also impact the casino experience. With a focus on responsible gambling and strict oversight in both Latin America and Australia, players can expect to enjoy a safe and fair gaming environment in casinos across both continents.

In conclusion, the casino cultures of Latin America and Australia offer unique gaming experiences that cater to the preferences and expectations of players in each region. From the rise of casino gaming in Latin America to the popularity of pokies in Australia, the industry continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of the global gambling market. With the growth of online casinos and the increasing accessibility of gaming opportunities, players from both continents can now enjoy a wide rangeof games from the comfort of their own homes.

By comparing the land-based casinos in both regions, its clear that there are differences in the size and scale of the casinos, the gaming options available, and the regulatory environment. However, both regions have seen significant growth in the online casino industry, offering players a diverse range of games and a safe and secure gaming environment.

The Wild Fortune casino review by Online Casino Hub highlights the importance of finding a platform that offers a great gaming experience, a wide range of games, and excellent customer support. With its user-friendly interface, impressive game selection, and responsive customer support, Wild Fortune is a great choice for players looking for a reliable and enjoyable online casino experience.

Finally, its important to consider the impact of cultural differences on the overall casino experience. While both regions share a love for gambling, the preferences and expectations of players can vary considerably. By understanding these cultural differences, players can choose the gaming destination that best suits their needs and preferences.

In summary, the casino cultures of Latin America and Australia offer unique and exciting gaming experiences for players from around the world. Whether youre looking for a fun night out at a land-based casino or prefer the convenience of playing online, both regions have plenty to offer. By considering the differences and similarities between the two, players can make informed decisions and enjoy the best possible gaming experience.

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SBC Summit Starts With Poignant Responsible Gambling Panels – Sports Handle

Posted: at 10:32 am

With responsible gambling top of mind for the entire sports betting industry, it was certainly fitting that the annual SBC Summit North America kicked off in New York Citys Altman Building with a pair of panel discussions devoted to that very topic, one of which provided particularly poignant insight into why elite athletes are three times more likely to develop gambling addictions than the rest of the population.

I was able to hide it so well, said Ryan Tatusko, a former Major League Baseball player and gambling addict who is now a lived experience facilitator with EPIC Risk Management. From playing a high level of sport early on, I started navigating risks. If Im injured or hurt, can I go out and play? Risks started to not mean very much to me, so I started to take more and more risks.

Tatusko, who pitched for the Texas Rangers and Washington Nationals, said he started playing poker at casinos during spring training. But it was when he got hurt and had to spend time away from the team that this hobby became massively problematic, saying he gambled to get back the feeling of competition.

If I cant compete on the field, Im going to go compete somewhere else, he explained.

Meg Popovic, who basically created the position of director of player welfare and performance with the Toronto Maple Leafs after watching her brother, an ex-NHL player, go through the emotional wringer, seconded Tatuskos thoughts while providing more depth.

Popovic began by saying that what makes athletes great is an innate competitiveness that probably makes them borderline crazy. They feel a desire to compete with somebody else. It gives them a thrill.

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She then explained the plight of an everyday 18-year-old NHL prospect, saying, Theyre no longer like their peers. Youre making $800,000 a year on an entry-level contract. Probably at the age of 14, youve moved away from home to play your sport. Think about yourself when you were 18. I didnt make a million dollars a year. I didnt really interact with 35-year-old people; I interacted with my peer group and had time to make my decisions professionally.

Popovic went on to explain that such a prodigy is put on a social pedestal by their peers. And when that prodigy hits any kind of turbulence, their friends response is often, You have the dream life. Try working in a factory. You dont have any idea what its like to have a mortgage.

That, she said, leads to an incredible amount of isolation, which, as Tatusko mentioned, can lead to severe boredom and, in some instances, perilous gambling issues.

Explaining the NHL players constant mindset and why they dont seek help when they might need it, Popovic added, Everyones coming for your job, everyones watching you all the time it can create a sense of paranoia. Youre always playing for another contract and theres only a window of time in which you can play your sport. Then its over.They might not have a team culture where everybody trusts the staff. So if youre worried about your next contract, are you really going to tell someone that you have a gambling problem? No, you cant.

Does the culture of the sport allow for the athlete to have opportunities if they articulate a problem? If its very well-known that you cant articulate your feelings or challenges or problems because it will be a knock against you, you dont take that risk. Having a young man whos 19 or 24 come forward and talk and ask for help probably isnt in their upbringing, its not comfortable.

Adding another layer to Popovics explanation, fellow panelist Chris Hangenbrauck of the NCAA said, Athletes feel like they sometimes have specialized knowledge that makes them more prone to think they can win.

But more often than not, that false sense of confidence leads to unimaginable gambling losses, he added.

Earlier in the day, Alan Feldman, a distinguished fellow of responsible gambling at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, hosted a panel on managing player risk through technology in which it was determined that technology was not the solution or at least not the entire solution to identify at-risk bettors.

The human touch is so important, said Tammi Barlow, director of corporate social responsibility for Rush Street Interactive.

Technology is one vertical to educate and prevent, but its not the answer, said fellow panelist Bill Pascrell III of Princeton Public Affairs Group.

Effective prevention is the holy grail in the RG/PG world, but Feldman, Barlow, Pascrell, and Keith Whyte, executive director for the National Council on Problem Gambling, all conceded that, as of yet, there is no silver bullet when it comes to reaching the 95% of non-problematic bettors who might lurch into the 5% that becomes addicted to gambling.

The panelists also agreed that streamlining certain RG/PG components, like publicizing a universal problem gambling hotline (800-GAMBLER) instead of several state numbers and allowing self-exclusion lists to cross state lines, would be highly desirable.

We need one number, said Barlow. I respect all the numbers, but who does it serve? Its for the protection of people. When you put up 15 or however many jurisdictions, how is that message coming across? It is about how quickly can a person in crisis call the number and get help.

I think we can do online gambling more safely than retail, said Whyte. We just need to prove that out. The datas gonna prove that out. This is revenue-positive if done well and right. RG is not just good ethics, its good business.

The lone tension point of the afternoon came when Pascrell talked about his field trips to colleges with industry insiders, which are intended to educate students about the dangers of gambling before theyre of legal age to place a wager. He said hed gotten some flack for what he considered to be a necessary early intervention tool. Whyte agreed that communicating with college students on this topic was important, but said industry types were the wrong messengers.

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White Paper on rules for online gambling lays its cards on the table … – The Scotsman

Posted: at 10:32 am

New plans to increase the regulation of online gambling in the UK in a Government White Paper contain few surprises and leave many questions unanswered.

Reforms proposed in the Gambling reform for the digital age policy paper include a new statutory levy on gambling companies that is set to replace the current voluntary system. The levy rate, which will be subject to further consultation, will take into account factors like business size, operating costs and problem gambling rates.

Levy proceeds will be spent by the Gambling Commission on funding for research, education and treatment, including through the NHS, of gambling addiction, subject to government approval.

The paper outlines plans for a new stake limit for online slots to help prevent large losses, long sessions, and binge play. Unlike land-based gaming machines, online slots currently have no statutory stake limits.

The government will launch a consultation on how high the default maximum stake should be set between 2 and 15 per spin, with a second consultation considering options for specific protections for under-25s, including a lower stake limit or other controls.

Betting companies will also be required to conduct seamless player protection checks on high-spending gamblers to ensure that they are not incurring harmful losses. These checks will take place instantaneously, and will not impact gameplay, unless there are signs of financial harm.

It said such checks will be targeted, and that 80 per cent of players will never undergo them, and will happen in the background against information already available online, so those who are checked will not notice.

While the paper focuses on strengthening controls in the online sector, in truth, it holds few surprises. The proposed stake limit for online slots was always on the cards, as were more prescriptive rules on when online operators must check customers financial circumstances through financial risk checks.

The Gambling Commission advocated, and positively encouraged, data sharing between operators, but it will now be mandatory for high-risk customers. The data protection implications of this are unclear at present.

Local authorities will be pleased by the proposed new powers to conduct cumulative impact assessments when considering new applications, as well as the review of the fees which councils can charge for premises licences. In Scotland, at last, local authorities can look forward to the same enforcement powers as officials in England & Wales.

The paper also said that bonuses can drive harmful behaviour and the Gambling Commission will examine how bonus offers, such as free bets and spins, are constructed and targeted.

Ministers will also review online game design rules to limit speed of play and other characteristics that exacerbate risks, and examine the current horserace betting levy to make certain racing continues to be appropriately funded for the future.

Interestingly, there is no proposal to ban football sponsorship by gambling companies although there is a voluntary agreement with English Premiership clubs which will see the removal of front of shirt sponsorship from 2026.

I suspect that the proposed reforms will not go far enough for some politicians and health professionals, but they will also have an opportunity to contribute to the consultations.

Audrey Ferrie, Consultant and licensing specialist at Pinsent Masons

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Best UAE Online Casinos – Bonus, Features, Pros and Cons of The … – NewsWatch

Posted: at 10:32 am

Online casino enthusiasts in the United Arab Emirates are currently enjoying an unprecedented range of secure and popular digital platforms. Catering to their needs, these cutting-edge platforms are eager to accommodate UAE gamers, offering an incredibly seamless and user-friendly experience. A number of these online casinos even allow bets in dirhams and provide Arabic language support, ensuring unparalleled accessibility for players in the region.

In this comprehensive guide, we aim to provide you with everything you need to know to dive into the exhilarating world of real money online casinos in the UAE. We will introduce the top online casinos for real money gaming, delve into the array of games you can enjoy, highlight the most attractive promotional offers, and much more. So, prepare yourself for an engaging journey into the thriving realm of online casinos in the Emirates.

Even though the government isnt too keen on gambling, that hasnt stopped a bunch of real money online casinos from popping up in the United Arab Emirates. Despite the official stance, people still enjoy playing their favourite games online. So, weve put together a list of the top UAE online casinos for you to check out and have some fun!

As youve seen in the list provided earlier, weve identified the top UAE online casinos. Lets now dive deeper into each of these casinos and explore what makes them the best choices for real money gaming. Also in Sportslens, you can find all the information you need about the best online casino sites in the UAE.

BetOnline, an esteemed online casino, has been thriving since its inception in 2004. As one of the oldest and most respected real money casinos in the United Arab Emirates, it has consistently drawn a significant number of players over the years.

With its sleek, modern design and user-friendly interface, BetOnline dazzles players with an array of captivating games and enticing promotions, ensuring a top-notch gaming experience.

This well-regarded casino offers an extensive variety of games to cater to diverse gaming preferences. Youll find both computer-generated and live-dealer table games, as well as a vast selection of slots and speciality games. BetOnline doesnt stop there; it also dedicates sections to live and video poker, making it an all-encompassing choice for casino enthusiasts.

What sets BetOnline apart from its competitors is its remarkable array of special offers. Players can enjoy numerous promotions, such as reload bonuses, cash rebates, a VIP program, and more.

So, whether youre an experienced gambler or just starting to explore the exciting world of online casinos, BetOnline promises a top-tier gaming experience thatll keep you engaged for hours.

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Bovada is a sports betting platform designed exclusively for the US market. Launched in 2011 and based in Costa Rica, it operates under a license from the Curaao Gaming Control.

This sophisticated and stylish online casino features an extensive selection of thrilling games, coupled with unparalleled customer support, making Bovada a premier destination for passionate players.

Available 24/7, Bovadas customer support can be accessed through email and live chat, though you might need to navigate the help center to find these contact options.

When it comes to bonuses and promotions, Bovada provides a 75% match up to $750 for its crypto sports bonus, which might be lower than some competitors. However, it compensates for this with an impressively low 5x rollover requirement, compared to the industry average of 10x. The fiat (credit card) bonus also features a 5x rollover but offers a less attractive 50% match.

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Lucky Block is an exciting, fresh online casino that debuted in 2022. Though its new and doesnt have an extensive history, were confident in placing it at the forefront of our recommendations for online casinos in the UAE where you can play for real money.

Step into a world of charm and elegance at Lucky Block, where players can indulge in a diverse assortment of captivating games while enjoying seamless navigation and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

The user-friendly and straightforward interface of Lucky Block is perfect for both beginners and experienced players. Navigating the website is a breeze, with all the essential sections, such as the Casino and Live Casino, easily accessible.

In terms of game selection, Lucky Block has got you covered. Youll find live games like blackjack, baccarat, and roulette, as well as an impressive array of slots from providers such as Play n GO, Hacksaw, and Evolution.

What sets Lucky Block apart is its dedication to being a cryptocurrency-focused casino. Not only does it accept a variety of popular cryptos, including bitcoin, but it also allows you to use your credit or debit card to buy bitcoin directly on the platform. One significant advantage of a crypto casino like Lucky Block is the absence of a KYC process for deposits and withdrawals, enabling quick access to your winnings. We highly recommend using crypto over fiat currency for its privacy benefits and ease of transactions.

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BC.Game is an impressive online casino and sportsbook that has been around since 2017. Whats particularly noteworthy is the fact that it now boasts over 8,000 games and offers betting on more than 80 sports markets.

A cutting-edge online casino that merges technology with entertainment, BC.Game boasts an innovative game selection and a futuristic vibe, catering to players who crave a refreshing and unique gaming experience.

Its not hard to see why BC.Game has become one of the top Bitcoin gambling sites in recent years. Despite starting out with only a handful of games and a relatively small following, the platform has rapidly expanded to attract more than 3 million players from 150+ countries.

One of the standout features of BC.Game is its forward-thinking approach to cryptocurrencies. With the ability to accept deposits in over 150 popular crypto tokens and its own native token, BCD, BC.Game is making waves in the online gambling world. Its easy to see why this platform is a favorite among players looking for a cutting-edge gaming experience.

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Established in 2017, MyBookie is a trustworthy online sportsbook, licensed by the Curaao Gaming Control Board and based in Costa Rica. The platform boasts a payout time ranging from 1 to 48 hours.

This vibrant and dynamic platform offers an immersive gambling experience, complete with a colourful array of exhilarating games and generous bonuses that keep players coming back for more.

MyBookie accommodates a wide range of payment options, including credit cards, Person2Person transfers, and 10 popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin. The minimum deposit amounts are $20 for cryptocurrencies, $45 for credit cards, and $100 for Person2Person transactions.

MyBookies dedicated customer support team is available around the clock via live chat and email. However, users must first create an account to access the live chat feature.

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When evaluating a casino site, our priority is safety, followed by the availability of enticing rewards. As we explored El Royales Bonuses section, we were astounded to discover more than 30 promotions on offer. With low wagering requirements for most of them, crypto players can use El Royale Casino bonus codes to access a bountiful welcome package and numerous reload offers.

Immerse yourself in the opulent world of El Royale, where the glamour of the Roaring Twenties meets cutting-edge technology, offering players a unique and unforgettable gaming experience.

What sets this casino apart from many others on our list is the absence of a maximum deposit limit for Bitcoin users. However, its worth noting a few minor drawbacks we encountered. For instance, when withdrawing your winnings, youll encounter a low max withdrawal cap for BTC. Additionally, while there is a great selection of games to play, you wont come across any exclusive blackjack or roulette tournaments.

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How TAB NZ Is Opposing Online Gambling Operations? – Khel Now

Posted: at 10:32 am

Gambling in New Zealand is much loved, and it is widely confirmed by a huge section of 80% of the population participating in daily gambling activities. Currently, gambling jurisdictions in New Zealand are maintained and controlled by the Department of Internal Affairs. For the past two years, the online gambling industry in New Zealand has been gaining significant importance, with over 80 million downloads and a humongous profit of $100 billion.

It was only in 2003 that gambling was secured as being legal and recognized in New Zealand. But, there are only certain forms of gambling permissible by the TAB (Totalisator Agency Board), such as horse racing, lotteries, and pokies. Further, none of the six domestic casinos Dunedin, Christchurch, Skycity Hamilton, Skycity Auckland, Skycity Queenstown, and Skycity Wharf can power to avail an iGaming experience.

It led to vast encouragement among regular gamblers to choose casino sites at CasinoDeps.co.nz, which do not come into the boundaries of NZ TAB governance, etc. Overseas gambling also implies a great extent to secure the facilities of online gambling, which are otherwise blocked.

Recently, there has been a massive hassle about releasing promotional content, which discourages regular gamblers from preventing all forms of online gambling operations or rather prevents any relations with the offshore gambling industry. Although NZ TAB has received criticism and appreciation for stepping up with such an initiative, they have made some convincing statements.

The TAB NZ predominantly set up a promotional video featuring Dan Hooker, renowned jockeys Sheree Tomlinson and Samantha Collett, the UFC fighter Stephen Donald, Phillipa Morris, the presenter of Trackside TV greyhound racing, and the horse racing trainer Jamie Richards. These stars talk about the nations financial flow and why online gambling operators, as well as games, should be prevented.

The video also portrays that around $130 million is annually given to offshore gambling operations. Hence, if there is a shift to payouts circulated only in the country, it can be highly beneficial in boosting the nations economy. It is speculated that around $80 million in revenue can be profited annually, even after a regular check on tax, levies, and other operating expenses.

Dean McKenzie, TAB NZ executive, believes that TABs success implies a colossal section of revenue, with an increase in profits for encouraging New Zealand racing and overall enhancements in the realm of the New Zealand sports curriculum. As a result, the internal economy is strengthened, and self-sufficiency is reached in implying the game of chances too.

Besides promoting the state economy, NZ TAB also highlights the several benefits observed in the state apparatus, such as a check on problem gambling and gambling addiction. An average of 54,000 New Zealanders are direct prey to problem gambling, with over 11,000 being at low risk of it. There is a high positive stimulation on the budget, too, since an average problem gambler spends around $500 in one go.

The campaign was indeed a great success, with a consecutive raise of $41m. This amount was directly donated to the covid-19. Further, the betting industry witnessed a profit of $28.3m, with an average net betting revenue of 3.3% and a surge in the net gaming revenue of 9.3% at $264.4m. This highly positive outcome is accompanied by a simultaneous discouragement or decline in online gambling, which was reduced by 10.6%, as confirmed by New Zealand Racing.

The Melbourne Cup, which was rescheduled due to the coronavirus, experienced a rise in the budget by almost 27.6m above the budget. Eventually, the Melbourne Cups entire budget exceeded $232.6m. Of the whole amount, cash handling of $26.8 million is done directly, with a stimulation of 14 % from the initial year budget. It is again contributed mainly to the revenue earned from the domestic gambling section.

The video secured immense success and support. It could be partly accounted for by the panel of featured stars who successfully instil awareness among their followers, who try to emulate them. TAB NZ will continue to oppose offshore gambling and will surely come up with more incentives like this to minimise the losses incurred due to offline casinos. Moreover, it also aims to control the growing statistics of gambling addiction, which to a great extent holds online gambling responsible.

This ideology and principle are indeed nuanced for the betterment of the country. Still, gamblers can hardly enjoy the variety of games if the overseas casinos supporting online gambling are opposed. In a situation as such, gamblers are indeed lucky that the state imposes no strict measures.

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Jaipur Police bust illegal online gambling app call center, arrests 12 – The PinkCity Post

Posted: at 10:32 am

JAIPUR: Jaipur Police carried out a raid on an online gaming app call center in Sector-26 Pratap Nagar, arresting 12 individuals involved in illegal betting operations.

The police seized accounting registers amounting to Rs 6 crore, along with equipment believed to be used for speculative purposes. The police are now searching for the main suspect behind the operation, which ran 24 hours a day.

DCP (East) Gyanchandra Yadav explained that the raid was conducted after SHO (Pratap Nagar) Manvendra Singh received a tip about the illegal betting taking place under the guise of a call center. The app in question, Sky Exchange, facilitated online betting on various games. Users would download the app, receive a user ID and password, and place bets via WhatsApp groups.

Points were accumulated based on the amount of money users placed on the app, which allowed them to bet on the outcomes of cricket matches, ludo, casino games, Teen Patti, and other online games. The app preyed on young users, encouraging addiction and cheating them out of their money.

DCP Yadav praised the efforts of head constables Hardayal Singh, Mahesh Chand, constable Bajrang Lal, and cyber cell office constable Bhupendra Singh in the operation. The police seized four computer systems, five headphones, two power banks, a DVR, two mobile chargers, two laptops with chargers, a printer, five mobile phones, and other items from the call center.

According to Additional DCP (East) Avneesh Kumar, the call center had been in operation for the past six months under the supervision of a man named Akhilesh, a resident of Mandawa Jhunjhunu. Akhilesh employed several youths on a salary basis and visited the call center every five to six days.

The call center operated around the clock, with employees working in shifts. Money was deposited into various accounts under different names, and once the fraudulent funds were received, they were withdrawn via ATMs. The SIM cards found in the five mobile phones recovered from the suspects were also linked to fraudulent transactions in other individuals names. Over the past six months, these accounts have seen transactions worth crores of rupees, and the police have now frozen the implicated bank accounts.

First published: May 6, 2023

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Community Blog – The Importance of Reputation in Online Casinos – Co-Optimus.com

Posted: at 10:32 am

The online gambling industry is booming. Once something of an obscure and specialised activity, it now accounts for the largest sector in the wider gambling industry and looks set to grow even more in the future.

However, the success of the sector means that competition is fierce. Online casinos and gambling platforms are engaged in a hotly contested battle to attract and retain players. As with any business, the opinion customers hold about certain brands and products has a significant influence on the success of a business. Lets take a look at the importance of reputation for online casinos.

What Affects Reputation?

There are a host of different things that can influence customer opinion and affect the reputation of your online casino.

It could be something visual or aesthetic. If a customer arrives at your online casino and finds that its poorly designed, with unpleasant colour schemes, a counterintuitive layout, and appealing or even offensive images, this is immediately going to give them a negative impression, one that will be difficult for them to forget about.

It could also be in the variety or quality of games and services your online casino offers. Modern players are used to having a huge range of different options, if your online casino is lacking or limited in any way, this could negatively affect your reputation.

Finally, safety and security are vital for online casinos, and perceived safety is perhaps the most important factor that can influence the reputation of your business. If your casino were to suffer a serious cybersecurity incident such as a data breach, players will perceive your platform to be unsafe and will hold an extremely negative view of it.

Staying Ahead of Rival Casinos

So, now we know about the main factors that can affect the reputation of your online casino. However, its important we understand why exactly reputation is so important, and what kind of implications it can have for you and your business.

As we mentioned earlier, competition in the online gambling industry is stiff. If you are the operator of an online casino platform, staying one step ahead of your rivals is critical. Whether they are the latest live dealer games or the top online poker casinos, youre going to have your work cut out for you if you want to establish yourself as a major player in the industry.

When it comes to beating the competition, reputation is everything. If you can build a positive reputation about your casino and brand among the general public, players will be more likely to turn to your platform when they decide to explore the world of online gambling.

Research has revealed that many corporate leaders rank brand reputation as one of their most valuable assets, and that it has a direct and significant impact on sales and profits.

How to Maintain Reputation

As we have illustrated above, reputation is incredibly important, and its something you simply cannot overlook as the operator of an online casino.

How can you ensure your brand is perceived positively by players and customers? One of the most effective ways is to pay close attention to any reviews players might have left about your platform. Bad reviews can be extremely damaging and can influence prospective customers decisions as to whether to use your platform or not.

If your online casino does receive a bad review, dont panic. It can be a difficult situation, but if handled correctly you can use it as a learning process and to improve the services you provide.

If you can, reach out to the player who left the review and open a line of communication. This way, you can attempt to rectify the situation and address any issues the player has.

Whats more, in doing so you will demonstrate to other players that your platform cares about their satisfaction and their welfare, which can do wonders for your reputation.

In terms of general strategies to maintain a positive reputation among your players, ensuring you are offering the highest possible quality of service at all times is the most effective approach.

Make sure that you are offering the latest and greatest games and that your customer service options are fully functional and responsive. Dont forget about cybersecurity either. Your online casino must adhere to the latest security regulations to keep your players safe at all times.

Conclusion

Its impossible to overstate the importance of reputation for online casinos. It can directly impact sales and revenue and can have long-lasting effects that can effectively make or break a business.

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Transhumanism, AI, Singularity – How far is too far? – Fallbrook / Bonsall Villlage News

Posted: at 10:31 am

Julie Reeder

Publisher

Life as we know it is changing, probably more quickly than any time in history. That is just a hunch, based on how quickly technology is advancing and how culturally we seem to be more distracted by controversies and entertainment on our phones and less concerned and informed about important issues that actually have great consequences to our culture, our future, and our very existence.

We dont want to be political or religious so ignorance is bliss as to how corrupt our national political system, agencies and leaders are. We suspect something isnt right and we are uninformed about things like regulatory capture (industry controlling and funding government agencies that used to be objective and for the public good) which actually brings harm to our people.

We were tested during COVID and found to be willing to give up our freedom of speech out of fear of being exposed to disinformation, as well as other Constitutional freedoms.

We are fighting for medical freedom over our own bodies and our doctors are losing their licenses for having educated, yet differing, politically incorrect opinions from what the state and federal government have mandated as truth. Now the U.S. is considering giving away our freedom to the World Health Organization when another pandemic happens.

We would all be under the governance and control of the WHO, whose leader was placed in his position by China and is not even a medical doctor. Regardless of who the leader is or who put him in the position, we should be in control of our own country with people who we vote into office, because at the root its always about control. And very often the end justifies the means.

As things move quickly and leaders from the President and Congress to the WHO and the World Economic Forum scramble to control people, how much easier would it be in a world where we are all transhuman?

Soon the fight may extend past freedom of speech and personal medical freedom into transhumanism, artificial intelligence (AI), and singularity. These are hot complex topics that have been at the forefront of scientific and philosophical discussions for decades but more so right now. The idea of using technology to enhance human abilities and create intelligent machines has both advantages and dangers.

Have you ever heard of Human 2.0? Some believe it is the next phase of evolution, where we create machines that are more intelligent than we are. Elon Musk has repeatedly warned against AI, as he invests in it, that it could literally end our civilization and humanity.

Advantages of transhumanism and AI

Transhumanism is the belief that humans can and should use technology to enhance their physical, intellectual, and emotional capabilities. This philosophy promotes the use of genetic engineering, cybernetics, and other technologies to improve human lives. One of the primary advantages of transhumanism is the potential for increased lifespan and improved health. By using technology to enhance the human body, scientists could potentially eliminate many of the diseases and conditions that shorten human lifespans.

Similarly, the development of AI has the potential to revolutionize virtually every aspect of our lives. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data and identify patterns that humans would not be able to detect. This technology can be used to improve healthcare, education, and many other industries. For example, AI-powered healthcare could help doctors diagnose and treat diseases more accurately and efficiently, potentially saving countless lives.

Dangers of transhumanism and AI

However, there are also many dangers. One of the most significant risks is that the development of these technologies could exacerbate existing social inequalities. For example, if only wealthy individuals have access to life-extending technologies, it could widen the gap between the rich and poor. Similarly, if AI-powered systems are primarily used by corporations and governments, it could lead to further concentration of power and decreased accountability.

There are also concerns about the potential for AI to become too intelligent and out of control. This scenario, known as "superintelligence," is often portrayed in science fiction as a catastrophic event that could lead to the extinction of humanity. While many experts believe that this outcome is unlikely, there is still a significant risk that AI could be used to carry out harmful actions, intentionally or unintentionally.

It makes me think of the Matrix movies where almost all the humans are hooked up to a pod living in a dream reality while serving as batteries for the matrix. Civilization and humanity are destroyed when humans no longer have the freedom to be human, to make decisions, to love, to travel, to experience our world, to serve and work for each other rather than a centralized power, and when we lose the ability to have a soul. Its one thing we believe separates us from machines and animals. We have a soul. We are creative, spiritual beings and sometimes unpredictable.

Futurist Ray Kurzweil, author of the book Age of Spiritual Machines, predicted in 1999 that machines with human-level intelligence would be available from affordable computing devices within a couple of decades, revolutionizing most aspects of life. He says nanotechnology will augment our bodies and cure cancer even as humans connect to computers via direct neural interfaces or live full-time in virtual reality.

Kurzweil predicts the machines "will appear to have their own free will" and even "spiritual experiences." He says humans will essentially live forever as humanity and its machinery become one and the same. He predicts that intelligence will expand outward from earth until it grows powerful enough to influence the fate of the universe, and goes on to say that Singularity will represent the culmination of the merger of our biological thinking and existence with our technology, resulting in a world that is still human, but that transcends our biological roots. There is disagreement on whether computers will one day be conscious.

Others believe that transhumanism, AI, singularity, and Human 2.0 are the dreams and inventions of wealthy men who want to find a way to cheat death, live forever and be their own God. Its also feared that while there could be some advantages, people may also be able to be controlled by the internet, electricity or other means.

How far is too far? We already have the knowledge of the world at our fingertips on our mobile devices. We already have the ability to have technology aid our hearing, eyesight, movement, etc. Neurolink takes things even further. We have to consider how far can we go before we are someone or something else entirely? And how easily can we be controlled? How compliant will we become by choice? What would be the implications to our society and our freedoms? What does it mean to be human?

There are complex issues that need to be researched and debated. People would do well to unhook from the matrix, ask questions, and be cautious of who is in control as we shape our technological future.

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How ‘cyborg feminism’ confuses technology with women’s progress – Washington Examiner

Posted: at 10:31 am

We're living in an age of what Mary Harrington calls cyborg feminism. This feminism, Harrington explains, is a vision of what freedom is thats inseparable from the technologies that make it possible.

The author of the recently released book Feminism Against Progress, Harrington argues that by turning women into simulacrums of their real selves, todays feminism isnt really as empowering as it likes to think. I sat down with Harrington during her recent trip to Washington to discuss cyborg feminism, why first-wave feminism got memory-holed, and the relationship between transhumanism and the transgender movement.

FEMINISM FOR THE ELITE

Thanks to the advent of birth control, a transhumanist technology leading to the availability of abortion and even the popularity of the transgender movement, were told we no longer have to worry about the particulars of our bodies because we can transcend them, Harrington explained. This isnt true, of course, but it is the prevailing cultural message that imbues everything from our media to our textbooks.

This all means that womens personhood and participation in society are now predicated on the ability to alter the natural functioning of their own bodies, a message that, despite its hostility to women, has ironically been pushed by mainstream feminism.

If you believe that your participation in society and your personhood as such are structurally predicated on your access to birth control and legal abortion, then you are in a sense inseparable from the machine, she explained. You dont exist as a person except through your integration with these technologies.

This perspective underlies the pro-abortion movement, which, according to this logic, makes abortion a necessary prerequisite for a womans full personhood. And yet, pro-life principles actually undergirded much of first-wave feminism, but that part of history has been erased by the winners of the feminist movement, the ones who valued freedom over care.

First-wave feminism has been almost completely memory-holed because its problematic from the point of view of the feminism we now have, Harrington said. (Not only is early feminists' stance on abortion hopelessly archaic, but so is their support for the domestic sphere as a bulwark against the atomization of modernity.)

If cyborg feminism has won and it has freed women from their own bodies and their obligations to their children, why shouldnt it also free them from their gender? For young people whove grown up with the internet, this logic is easy to follow. Yet Harrington, who describes herself as extremely online, isn't anti-technology. Technology can be used for good, provided were intentional about orienting it to how people are and not how we think people ought to be, she said.

She gave the example of Keeper, a new dating service aimed at producing marriages that describes itself as driven by AI and relationship science, guided by human care. There are also a variety of natural family planning apps that serve as a digital alternative to hormonal birth control. And then theres remote work, which can help families return to the preindustrial standard of the household as its own economy.

But most new technologies seem to want to transcend the natural desires and designs of our bodies. Harrington warns against this disembodying effect of digital technologies, which we see in the rise of the transhumanist juggernaut.

Despite pushing the transgender movement, this school of thought doesnt actually care that much about transgender people, she argues. The celebration lasts only as long as a man is becoming a woman, or vice versa. But if that person chooses to detransition, the support evaporates.

What that suggests to me, she said, is that really theyre the cute mascots for something which is much bigger than trans identity and is much more about delegitimizing the idea of human nature as such and opening it up to commerce.

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Gender identity crises are good business. The sex reassignment industry is worth hundreds of millions of dollars. And the only thing holding it back, as with the other excesses of modern feminism, is the anti-cyborgs.

Theres still broad cultural support for the idea that there are some things which are sacred. You cant touch them, Harrington said. That intuitive sense still exists for a great many people, and theres no way you can deregulate human nature unless you can get rid of that first, or at least make it deplorable. The point where it becomes low status is the point where big biotech can really take off.

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Reconnecting With Beans To Take The Power Back Over Our Food … – ARC2020

Posted: at 10:31 am

Xavier Hamon (right) pictured during the Rural Resilience gathering organised by ARC2020 and partners in Pless, France, October 2022. Also pictured (from left): Katrina Idu (Forum Synergies), Czech farmer Terezie Dakov, and Louise Kelleher (ARC2020). Photo: Adle Violette

If we all agree to take back the power over our food, what do we need?

On Saturday 22nd April, the Global Bean network, including ARC2020 and its projects Rural Resilience and Seeds4All, invited its members to organise in-person events to celebrate the diversity of pulses in Europe and beyond (Albania, Austria, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Greece, USA). These leguminous celebrations then connected online for the Global Bean Seed Festival to talk about their initiatives and showcase their varieties.

Helping to frame the discussion, Xavier Hamon, artisan cook, president of the Alliance of Free Tables (formerly Alliance des cuisinier.e.s, a partner of the Rural Resilience project) and director of the Universit des Sciences et des Pratiques Gastronomiques (another partner of the project). His political statement encourages us to take the power back over our food, by re-cultivating of hundreds of varieties of grains and pulses, taking back land, winning political mandates, and most of all, support to those who work for the living world, day after day. Below is the full text of Xaviers presentation.

Words by Xavier Hamon

Lire cette tribune politique en franais

Dear Partners,

I was asked to present a political angle on the question of seeds and beans. I am very proud that a cook has been asked for political comments: it means that the view of our profession is starting to change, and the vision of the Alliance des Tables Libres et Vivantes is starting to be understood. We are no longer only tools for territorial promotion. I measure the road travelled and I thank the organisers for their trust.

Before I begin, to be clear, the cooks that I represent are all fighting for better food, better use of pulses and cereals, more plant-based food, the end of industrial livestock, and support for sustainable extensive livestock farming.

Sorry to keep referring to the French example, but it is what I know best. Perhaps it can offer the biggest gap between completed transition projects and the horror of agribusiness and poor quality food.

In France, in the world of cuisine, in a country that calls itself the capital of gastronomy, only certain people are allowed to talk about the professions that feed us.

And so we all are subject to the dominant discourse. Cultural hegemony, as Antonio Gramsci described it. Behind this dominant discourse are vested interests.

The cultural hegemony does not correspond to the reality. This vision of chefs represents less than 1% of the food services sector in France. The rest is left to the agri-food industry and fast food, which brings low quality jobs and the loss of professions that work with the living world.

All this translates into a desertion of personnel from kitchens and restaurants because in addition, the reality of working conditions is so terrible that no-one wants to do these jobs. As they say: Business as usual.

And thats the solution: Agribusiness is a perfect match for the Food Business, with the historical complicity of the great French chefs who were part of the development of the agri-food industry.

The parallel with agriculture is evident. There is also a hegemonic discourse that leaves little place for what all of you do, every day. Questions of farming and food are managed in the offices of the ministry of agriculture or at the general assembly of the biggest agricultural union in the country. Sensing that deep changes in society are questioning their ecocidal and socially unacceptable models, the agricultural hegemony deploys fiction, storytelling, greenwashing, corporate social responsibility, the media and politicians, to reassure consumers, so that they continue to be fed by the big food retailers.

In both gastronomy and agriculture, we see the same losses:

Bean growing has always mixed beliefs, pagan and religious, agronomic conditions, histories of migration, food needs, to constitute shared living cultures

This shared culture allows for the kind of social intelligence embodied by community festivals.

Without this relationship to the living world, without these relationships to each other and a shared culture, there is no life in society. Beans also carry this cultural responsibility.

We have the knowledge. We know how to do the transition. But its still a long road to find the means to move from activism to a real development of the sector.

If we all agree to take back the power over our food, what do we need?

Lets admit it: if we take our heads out of our nice stories, we dont live in a world that is concerned with the common good. Its a capitalist world that co-opts our arguments in a relationship that is closer to transhumanism than to the living world.

Our resistance in opposing this system shows an important trait of the human character. We still have a survival instinct, a trace of our reptile brain that invites us to resist. We inherit the history of past struggles and social victories.

History is repeating itself on the sides of the dominants: transhumanism echoes the futurist movement of the 1920s. On our side we also inherit past resistance movements to anchor us in the living world and to put humans back in a position of deciding for ourselves. The political movements after World War Two, and the social victories that followed until the 1980s, show that other ways are possible.

To quit the existing model, we need to have bigger ambitions, collectively. We need more of us. Alone, small-scale models will only save themselves they will not save the common good, or the damage done to food.

Two recent events show us that there is still a long road ahead:

We saw the same elements of cultural hegemonic discourse. As in the Netherlands, the power of productivist agricultural unions translates into the strong presence of these farmers in decision-making spaces: municipalities, regions, the boards of banks and insurance companies, chambers of agriculture and agricultural colleges.

To develop better food, a better relationship with the living world, we can no longer leave the power to these influencers. The representative bodies of our republics can no longer be personified by only the capitalist and technological model.

Our discourse is not enough. Our advocacy is not enough. We have to find the means to campaign, to win mandates, to be where the decisions are made. None of us can do it alone. Which is why my final message is to invite you to build the means of our ambitions for fairer food systems:

.. the number one element of our mental and physical health: food.

Lets pay with dignity the people who work for the living world every day, and take back the power over our plates by means of mandates, not our bank cards.

Thank you very much.

Watch Xavier Hamons presentation at the Global Bean Seed Festival here.

Visit the Rural Resilience project page

Read ARC2020s findings from the field in France, 2020-2022

Rural Resilience | A Collective Adventure

France | Cooking Up Fairer Food & Farming Part 1

France | Cooking Up Fairer Food & Farming Part 2

Rural Realities | Succession Passing It (All) On To The Next Generation

Rural Realities | Feet on the Ground in the Battle for Land

Rural Realities | Testing Grounds for Wellbeing

Cultivating The Future Together ARCs Rural Resilience Gathering in France

France | Meet The Farmer-Bakers Proving Their Skills

France | Meet The Farmer-Bakers Proving Their Skills part 2

Cross-Pollinating Resilience From Portugal: Nos Campagnes en Resilience in Pless

France | Growing Vegetables, Seeding Values Part 1

France | Growing Vegetables, Seeding Values Part 2

What France Can Teach Us About Rural Resilience

France | Farming by Numbers part 1

France | Farming by Numbers part 2

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