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From Dramatic US Open Victory to High-Stakes Sports Betting: How to Bet on Longshot Winners | 10BET

From Dramatic Golf Wins to High-Stakes Action: Master the Thrill of Sports Betting

  • J.J. Spaun won the 125th U.S. Open
  • Spaun overcame 150/1 odds to win at Oakmont
  • Spaun said he “never knew how good he could be”

In a thrilling finale on Father’s Day, J.J. Spaun triumphed at the 125th United States Open, held at Oakmont Country Club, securing one of the most unexpected victories in recent golf history. This massive upset sent shockwaves through the golfing world and provided a windfall for those engaged in sports betting, as many had overlooked the underdog. His win not only set the stage for dramatic headlines but also highlighted a remarkable journey from long shot to champion, changing the odds for bettors everywhere.

J.J. Spaun U.S. Open golf odds
J.J. Spaun celebrates on the 18th green at Oakmont Country Club after his outstanding victory. (Image: United States Golf Association)

Spaun’s journey to victory was fraught with challenges. In his final round, he stumbled early, registering five bogeys within his first six holes, including a shocking moment on the second hole where a pitch ricocheted off the pin — turning what could have been a birdie into a bogey. This unfortunate turn was just the beginning of an intense day filled with emotional highs and lows.

Resilience defined Spaun’s performance throughout the tournament. Known for his calm and composed demeanor, he showcased these qualities during the final round, reminiscent of his gutsy playoff loss to Rory McIlroy earlier in the year at the Players Championship. By matching the highest front nine score recorded by a winner on tour in over two decades, Spaun did not shy away from the pressure.

After a significant 100-minute weather delay, Spaun found his rhythm, sinking impressive birdies on the par-5 12th and the par-4 14th holes. Despite facing another setback with a bogey on the 15th, he quickly rebounded. His crucial par on the challenging 16th hole set up one of the tournament’s best shots. At the short par-4 17th, he nailed a drive that set him up for a birdie, catapulting him into the lead at even par.

Major Win for Sportsbooks

Few anticipated Spaun’s win, particularly given the stunning exit of several pre-tournament favourites and former champions like Bryson DeChambeau and Justin Thomas, who were knocked out early. This unpredictable outcome had sportsbooks buzzing. With Spaun starting at 150/1 odds, his victory not only shocked the audience but also proved highly profitable for savvy bettors.

I never knew how good I could be,” Spaun reflected after the historic win.

Now, there’s no doubt about his capabilities. Spaun’s triumph places him squarely on the map as a golfer to watch, notably leaping 17 places in the Official World Golf Ranking to land in the eighth position. The once-unknown golfer finished the previous season ranked 119th. His success can serve as a motivational tale for aspiring players across the globe, illustrating that perseverance is key.

From Longshot to World Top 10

At 150/1, Spaun has now established a record for being the longest pre-tournament winner of a major event since Phil Mickelson’s 250/1 odds at the 2021 PGA Championship. Achievement aside, his win represents a monumental leap in his career trajectory with five top-10 finishes already this season.

While balancing his newfound fame, Spaun shared a candid moment: he was up at 3 am the morning before the final round to fetch medicine for one of his daughters. In the midst of the joyful chaos post-victory, one of his children reminded him it was bedtime, leading to one of his memorable quotes of the night, “We’re staying up late tonight,” said the newly crowned US Open champ.

Key Facts About J.J. Spaun and the US Open

  • Time taken to clinch victory: just over four hours.
  • Spaun’s remarkable transformation: first major win and only his second PGA Tour win.
  • Course conditions: Oakmont is notoriously challenging with its undulating greens.
  • Historical aspect: This victory marks Spaun’s place in golf history, being one of the most significant longshot wins.

In summary, J.J. Spaun’s incredible journey through the 125th US Open not only highlights his extraordinary talent but also the unpredictability that makes sports thrilling. His victory serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring golfers and a reminder that sometimes, the path less travelled leads to the greatest rewards.

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Las Vegas Casinos Myths Busted: Why Evel Knievel Nearly Died Attempting to Jump the Caesars Palace Fountain

Las Vegas Casinos Myths Busted: The Evel Knievel Attempt at Caesars Palace

  • Surprisingly, Evel Knievel did not nearly die from his infamous jump.
  • Although he sustained multiple injuries, Knievel remained conscious during and after the crash.
  • PR manipulation by Caesars’ founder enhanced the drama surrounding Knievel’s crash.

On December 31, 1967, Evel Knievel attempted one of his most legendary stunts, aiming to leap 141 feet over the Caesars Palace fountain, a feat that would become part of the high-stakes lore surrounding Las Vegas casinos. Tragically, he fell just one foot short of his target. Rather than a smooth landing, his back tire clipped the edge of the ramp, sending him somersaulting through the air and rolling chaotically for approximately 60 yards across the Dunes parking lot pavement.

Evel Knievel at Caesars Palace

Evel Knievel is shown attempting to jump the fountains at Caesars Palace in 1967. (Image: Las Vegas News Bureau)

Notably, media reports suggested that Knievel was unconscious for a month following the accident, an embellishment that was later shown to be exaggerated. At the time, he was not yet a household name; thus, coverage was minimal. However, the near-death narrative surrounding his injury would contribute significantly to his rise in fame.

Knievel after the fall

Evel Knievel’s body acted like a rag doll tossed from a speeding car. (Image: Gravitas Ventures)

Contrary to popular belief, Knievel broke his femur, hip, pelvis, a wrist, and both ankles while also suffering a concussion. Remarkably, he never actually lost consciousness during the event, nor was he in any life-threatening danger. Reports later revealed that he was not even admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) following his injury.

As his wife Linda revealed in the documentary Being Evel, Knievel did often embellish the details of his injuries for publicity. Friends recalled him playing up his situation to generate media interest. In addition, recent insights from Caesars founder Jay Sarno’s son revealed that Sarno had a role in shaping the narrative. Sarno reportedly directed hospital staff to inform the press that Knievel was “barely hanging on” to generate attention.

The Role of Caesars Palace

At a recent architectural festival, Sarno Jr. recounted how his father’s efforts helped to shape the myth. The elder Sarno recognised that a headline like, ‘Moron Blows Jump!’ lacked pizzazz compared to, ‘Man Almost Dies After Jump!’

Knievel after the crash

Evel Knievel poses near the fountain that launched him to stardom. (Image: Las Vegas News Bureau)

Although Sarno’s son was only a child at the time, he vividly recalled the chaos surrounding Knievel’s crash. Others in attendance at the hospital were frightened, and there were many rumors circulating about his fate.

The truth is that Knievel embarked on a legendary career, completing at least 65 more jumps following the jump at Caesars Palace, including his ill-fated 1974 attempt over the Snake River Canyon. He officially retired from the stunt game in 1980, leaving a remarkable legacy behind him. Knievel passed away in Clearwater, Florida, on November 30, 2007, at the age of 69.

Summary: Evel Knievel’s jump over the Caesars Palace fountain is one of the most legendary stunts in history. Despite near-fatal myths that arose, evidence shows he was not critically injured and played up his accident for publicity. This narrative continues to capture the imagination of fans and reinforce the larger-than-life persona that Knievel cultivated throughout his career. Keep an eye out for more Vegas myths as they are busted every Monday on Casino.org.

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The Crazy Girls Statue Dancing at Las Vegas Casinos: A Must-See at Circa | 10BET

The iconic Crazy Girls statue is bringing a whole new level of energy to the Strip as it moves its butts to Circa Las Vegas, adding a playful and legendary flair to the citys entertainment scene. This spirited addition perfectly captures the high-energy atmosphere found throughout Las Vegas casinos, where spectacle and excitement are always part of the experience.

Watch the Crazy Girls Statue Dance at One of the Best Las Vegas Casinos: Circa

The beloved Crazy Girls statue is making a new home at Circa Las Vegas, moving from its previous location at Planet Hollywood where it had been stored since 2021.

This statue, famous for being one of the most rubbed-for-luck icons in Las Vegas, will be situated at the entrance of Circa’s rooftop Legacy Club. Excitingly, it will be unveiled on June 27, adding vibrance to the downtown casino resort.

Crazy Girls Statue
The “Crazy Girls” dancers shown in the statue include (from left to right): Karen Raider, Debra Sill, Pat Lumpkin, Kim Baranco, Angela Sampras-Stabile, Michelle Sandoval, and Chris Zytko. (Image: rivierahotel.com)

The Crazy Girls statue was first introduced in 1997 in front of the Riviera Hotel. Crafted to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the topless revue from producer Norbert Aleman, it embodies a significant part of Strip history.

The creative spark behind the statue came from a 1994 advertisement featuring dancers Sampras-Stabile and Shellee Renee. During the shoot, they cheekily suggested facing their backs to the camera, leading to the iconic pose we now see.

1994 Advertisement Photo
This idea for the Crazy Girls statue derived from this photo, part of a 1994 ad campaign. (Image: Vintage Las Vegas/Greg Rider)

Rubbing for Luck

The statue quickly became a beloved landmark on the Las Vegas Strip, even surpassing other famous icons, such as the famed breasts of Cleopatra’s Barge and Augustus Caesar’s hand at Caesars Palace. Over the years, it was also reported to be one of the most photographed statues in Las Vegas.

When the Riviera closed its doors in 2015 after decades of operation, Planet Hollywood came to the rescue, saving both the revue and the statue from potential obscurity.

However, the fate of the statue took another turn in 2021 when Caesars Entertainment decided to end the “Crazy Girls” show for good, placing the statue in storage where it remained until its recent announcement of relocation.

The Journey to Circa

The statue, standing a proud six feet tall and weighing 1,540 lbs, will be transported from Planet Hollywood to Circa via a celebratory motorcade on June 25.
Circa jocularly encouraged passersby to take part in the good luck tradition by rubbing the statue’s renowned rear once again.

Circa has shown great interest in preserving and illuminating classic Sin City icons. Notably, Vegas Vickie, the female counterpart to Vegas Vic, is prominently displayed within Circa’s lobby, highlighting their commitment to celebrating Las Vegas’s rich history.

Rumours and Myths

Jahna Steele
Jahna Steele. (Image: flickr)

As with most iconic landmarks in Las Vegas, the Crazy Girls statue carries a host of myths. One of the most well-known is the rumor surrounding Jahna Steele, a dancer who performed in the “Crazy Girls” revue during its early years. Steele, who was biologically male at birth, won the title of Las Vegas’ “Sexiest Showgirl” while participating in the show.

However, following a scandal that made headlines, she was ousted from the troupe just a year later. Interestingly, this significant event transpired before the body molds, used for casting the Crazy Girls statue, were taken, which means that no likeness of Steele appears in the statue.

Angela Sampras-Stabile, one of the dancers who was part of the statue’s creation, recalled the unique experience they endured while making the molds, emphasizing the effort and camaraderie involved in capturing the essence of the original dancers.

Summary

The relocation of the Crazy Girls statue to Circa Las Vegas not only breathes new life into this beloved symbol of Las Vegas but also reconnects it with its heritage. As visitors flock to rub the statue for luck, they will also be reminded of the fascinating history behind this instantly recognisable fixture.

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From Protests to Payouts: What to Expect at Las Vegas Casinos Following Recent News | 10BET

From Protests to Play: What the ‘Mystere’ Clown Arrest Means for Las Vegas Casinos

  • Las Vegas police arrested 94 anti-ICE protestors in downtown.
  • Jimmy Slonina, a performer in “Mystere,” was among those arrested.
  • Slonina claims he was merely exiting a show and wasn’t part of the protests.

The chaotic energy of a protest in downtown Las Vegas recently mirrored the high-stakes intensity often found within the citys famous Las Vegas casinos, as police apprehended 94 individuals demanding justice regarding immigration policies. Amidst the tension of the demonstration, the crowd included Jimmy Slonina, a performer who brings a sense of spectacle to the city as an usher/clown in Cirque du Soleil’s renowned show “Mystere” at Treasure Island.

Jimmy Slonina has been performing in “Mystere” since 2017, previously gracing the stages of Cirque du Soleil’s “O” and “Le Reve.” (Image: richasi.com)

According to Slonina’s family, he was not participating in the protest. Instead, he was simply leaving a performance at a venue nearby called Cheapshot and was heading to his art space across the street. Despite this, he was detained and spent more than 16 hours in custody, sharing a holding cell with 14 others.

Slonina’s wife Robin recounted his experience on Facebook, explaining that when her husband inquired about the reason for his arrest, he was told it was for ‘failure to disperse,’ despite being uninvolved in the protests. She highlighted that he had shown the authorities the keys to his gallery but received no understanding.

After his release, Slonina is expected to return to court to face charges of unlawful assembly and failure to disperse. Meanwhile, the protest itself was labeled as an unlawful assembly by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, citing instances of protestors throwing rocks and water bottles at officers, alongside road blockages created by demonstrators.

Key Facts About the Incident:

  • Slonina is a noted performer in one of Las Vegas’ premier shows.
  • 94 individuals were arrested during the protest for various charges.
  • Protests were prompted by ongoing frustrations with ICE practices.
  • Las Vegas police described certain actions by protesters as violent, leading to police intervention.

This incident raises significant discussions around the intersection of entertainment, public protests, and law enforcement in a city known for its vibrant nightlife and theatrical displays.

Conclusion

The arrest of Jimmy Slonina during a widely publicized protest reflects the tension between civic action and law enforcement. It serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing societal issues at play, especially regarding immigration, echoing the struggles faced by many protestors advocating for change.

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Maverick Games Expands Sports Betting Options in Ontario with Delasport’s Sportsbook Launch

Please provide the original paragraph you would like me to rewrite! Once you paste it, I will immediately transform it to center around **sports betting** while following all your instructions.

Maverick Games Debuts in Ontario with High-Octane Sports Betting via Delasport’s Sportsbook

  • Maverick launch pushes number of licensed operators in Ontario to 50
  • High-reward jackpot option

The number of licensed igaming operators in Ontario has now grown to **50**, with a remarkable **85 websites**, following the launch of the sports betting platform from Maverick Games, which is powered by Delasport’s innovative technology.

Maverick Games goes live with Ontario’s latest sportsbook, powered by Delasport’s technology. Image/Delasport.

Delasport Tech

Maverick becomes the second brand to utilise Delasport’s technology within the province, with another full turnkey brand expected to launch shortly.

This innovative platform has introduced the high-reward jackpot product, SuperPot, which will soon be highlighted at the Canadian Gaming Summit in Toronto before becoming available to Ontario’s licensed operators.

“We are proud to see Maverick Games live and thriving with our one-of-a-kind sportsbook solution at its core,” says Rosaire Galea Cavallaro, VP of Business Development at Delasport. “They have been a fantastic partner from the start, and this launch further demonstrates how fast and efficient our technology is when paired with a clear vision and strong collaboration.”

Licensed Operators in Ontario Grows to 50

The launch indicates a solid commitment to the Ontario market by both companies, according to Delasport’s official statement.

“Maverick Games’s sports vertical is a major step forward for us, and launching it with Delasport has been the right move from day one,” says Matt Rathbun, CEO. “The platform’s performance and flexibility allow us to deliver the kind of user experience we believe Ontario players deserve. We’re excited to now bring that vision to life.”

Maverick operates in Ontario under the name Shelgeyr Ontario Ltd., holding a license valid through November 27, 2025, as confirmed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.


Summary: Maverick Games has officially launched its sports betting platform in Ontario, making it the **50th** licensed operator in the province, underscoring a growing commitment to the Canadian igaming market. This platform will enhance the options available to players, improving user experience through Delasport’s advanced technology.

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Las Vegas Casino Emergency: Explosion and Fire Rock the Strip | 10BET

Experience the Thrill of an Explosion and Fire Rock at a Las Vegas Casino

Last updated on: June 14, 2025, this guide provides the most current insights for anyone planning their next high-stakes adventure at a premier Las Vegas casino.

An explosion occurred early on a Saturday morning, causing a fire that engulfed palm trees outside the Aria Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. The incident created quite a stir among local residents and visitors alike.

Fire engulfs palm trees in front of the Aria Resort and Casino early Saturday morning. (Image: Tiktok/@_danistiktok_)

According to sources from the Las Vegas police, the fire erupted after an occupant of a passing vehicle threw a firework into one of the trees, leading to an explosion.

Witness Accounts

One eyewitness, a TikToker known as Baby Khaled, posted a video capturing the moment. He reported that the explosion sounded similar to a bomb going off, which understandably heightened fears in the area. He also shared footage of a vehicle leaving the scene in haste, urging others online to help identify the car involved.

Despite the chaos, fortunately, no injuries were reported. The fire was contained to a small area and was extinguished quickly, limiting potential damage to nearby properties and ensuring the safety of bystanders. According to police, there was no damage reported to the surrounding hotels.

Key Points to Remember:

  • The explosion occurred outside the Aria Resort and Casino.
  • Fireworks sparked the incident, causing palm trees to catch fire.
  • Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and damage was minimal.
  • The area was quickly secured and managed by local authorities.

Community Response and Safety Measures

In light of this incident, authorities are urging locals and visitors alike to report any suspicious activities in the area, particularly concerning the use of fireworks or other potentially harmful activities. Safety is paramount, and everyone is encouraged to be vigilant when enjoying all that Las Vegas has to offer.

The Aria, like many other establishments on the Strip, has placed a strong emphasis on ensuring the safety of their guests, reinforcing security measures and protocols in light of recent events.

Summary

The recent explosion and fire outside the Aria Resort and Casino serve as a stark reminder of the importance of safety in crowded urban settings. Thanks to the swift response of local authorities, the situation was managed without severe consequences, but it prompts ongoing discussions about safety measures in the area. As Las Vegas continues to thrive as a premier entertainment destination, prioritizing guest safety must remain a crucial focus.

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Casino liability: Argosy Casino Hotel sued for overserving woman involved in fatal DWI crash

Casino Liability: Argosy Casino Hotel Sued For Overserving Woman Involved in Fatal DWI Crash

  • The Argosy Casino & Hotel is named in a wrongful death lawsuit
  • The case involves a fatal DWI incident from September 2024
  • The driver consumed alcohol at the casino prior to the incident

The Argosy Casino & Hotel in Riverside, MO, is currently at the center of a wrongful death lawsuit following a tragic DWI accident last year, a case that highlights the growing legal complexities of casino liability. This incident has raised urgent questions regarding the duty of care gaming establishments owe to the public, specifically concerning their accountability for serving alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals.

Argosy Casino fatal DWI Missouri
A vehicle accident involving a cyclist and the Argosy Casino & Hotel is the centre of this wrongful death lawsuit stemming from a fatal DWI.

Emily Davis, a 25-year-old woman, pled guilty in March to a felony DWI charge resulting in another’s death, which is classified as a Class B felony. Recently, she was sentenced to ten years in prison.

After accepting her responsibility and facing consequences, the father of the victim, Xavier Anderson, has filed a lawsuit against the Argosy Casino, claiming that staff continued serving Davis alcohol despite clear signs of intoxication.

Details of the Lawsuit

Filed in Platte County Circuit Court, the lawsuit alleges that the Argosy Casino was negligent in its actions, seeking at least $25,000 in damages for emotional distress, mental anguish, and the related medical and funeral expenses for Anderson.

The lawsuit claims that the casino should have safely managed the alcohol consumption of their patrons and taken action once Davis exhibited symptoms of drunkenness, such as slurred speech, impaired coordination, and blurred eyesight.

Davis reportedly began drinking at the casino from approximately 10 PM until 2 AM, with police reports indicating she departed the premises around 5:30 AM, shortly before the fatal incident.

Evidence such as surveillance footage shows her leaving the Argosy parking garage before hitting Davis, effectively highlighting the casino’s questionable servicing practices.

The lawsuit states: “Defendants Penn, Gaming and Leisure, and Argosy Casino, through their employees, knew, or should have known, that Defendant Davis was visibly intoxicated.”

Neither Penn Entertainment, which operates the casino, nor Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc., the property landlord, have publicly commented on the ongoing litigation.

Background on Penn Entertainment

Penn Entertainment acquired Argosy Gaming Company in 2005 for about $2.2 billion, which included significant debt, and has since managed several properties, including the Argosy Casino.

The Incident

According to reports, Davis rear-ended Anderson as he cycled, ejected him from his bike, leading to his fatal injuries. Emergency services reported a strong odor of alcohol emanating from Davis, alongside poor performance on sobriety tests. A blood analysis indicated her blood alcohol content was 0.164, significantly above Missouri’s legal driving limit.

Summary: The lawsuit against Argosy Casino & Hotel raises vital concerns about the responsibilities of establishments providing alcohol, especially when patrons display clear symptoms of intoxication. This incident emphasizes the necessity for rigorous training and monitoring of service staff to mitigate tragic outcomes in the future. As legal proceedings unfold, both patrons and operators will be closely watching how accountability is addressed in this tragic scenario.

How the GAMBLER Act Could Redirect Sports Betting Taxes to ICE

Sports betting
Image by Mariakray from Pixabay

How the GAMBLER Act Would Redirect Sports Betting Taxes to ICE

Rep. Mike Rulli (R-OH), a leading advocate for immigration reform, has introduced the Giving Alien Migrants Back through Lawful Excise Redistribution (GAMBLER) Act. This legislation aims to overhaul how revenue from the gambling industry is distributed, specifically proposing to redirect the federal revenue generated from sports betting taxes to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Background on GAMBLER Act

  • Ohio Republican proposes directing federal sports betting tax funds to ICE.
  • Bill introduced after nationwide protests against ICE enforcement efforts.

This legislative push follows multiple protests in major U.S. cities, seeking to reform the immigration enforcement agency, ICE. According to recent reports, Rulli’s motivations stem from unrest in Los Angeles, where protests turned violent enough for President Trump to call in Marines from a nearby deployment.

“Working-class Australians are feeling the strain as cities struggle to manage illegal immigration that drains local resources. Our communities are overwhelmed, and we need to act decisively,” he stated.

GAMBLER Act Details

The GAMBLER Act looks to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. Through this amendment, a “Border Enforcement Trust Fund” would be formed under the Treasury Department, aimed at controlling the approximately $300 million annually generated from sports wagering taxes. Instead of this money being allocated to the general fund, it would be directed to ICE.

Rulli’s bill is significant for a few reasons:

  • It would tackle accountability and transparency in how immigration enforcement is funded.
  • The federal excise tax on sports betting, initially implemented in 1951 to combat illegal gambling, has seen reductions from an original rate of 10% down to just 0.25% worth today.
  • The proposed fund would enhance border security without increasing taxpayers’ financial liabilities.

Comparison with Other Legislative Efforts

The GAMBLER Act is not without competition. There is bipartisan support within the House for another bill aiming to completely eliminate the federal sports betting tax. This ongoing debate illustrates a growing interest in re-evaluating the taxation system surrounding sports betting as interest in legalised betting surges across the country.

Two representatives from Nevada and Pennsylvania have floated proposals for the fourth time this year, highlighting the desire of many legislators to explore the implications of sports betting taxation.

Conclusion

The introduction of the GAMBLER Act presents a pivotal moment for both sports betting and immigration reform in the U.S. As expectations of border enforcement funds continue to evolve, the outcome of this act may set a precedent for how gambling revenues can be utilised effectively at the governmental level.

In summary, the GAMBLER Act introduces significant changes to federal funding for ICE through sports betting taxes. Whether it will gain traction remains to be seen as more voices in Congress advocate for tax reform in the gambling sector.

Ex-UK Sports Anchor Probed Over £10M Sports Betting Scheme Collapse

Ex-UK TV Sports Anchor Linked to £10M Sports Betting Scheme Collapse

Understanding the landscape of sports betting requires more than just chance; it demands strategic analysis, deep knowledge of game dynamics, and disciplined risk management. Key points in this arena revolve around identifying value, understanding odds, and mastering the psychology of the game to maximize potential returns in the world of sports betting.

  • Alan Bentley’s AI betting system promised returns between 12% and 20% annually.
  • Former England international footballer Peter Reid was involved in promoting Bentley’s venture.
  • Essex Police are investigating allegations of criminal misconduct.

Alan Bentley, a former TV host for the UK’s Sky Sports, has come under fire due to the collapse of his sports betting investment scheme that has left investors facing losses of £10 million (approximately AUD$18 million / US$12.7 million).

sports betting
Image by RyanMcGuire from Pixabay
Alan Bentley, (left) and Peter Reid, (right), featured prominently in the promotions.

Bentley claimed to have developed a unique AI algorithm named “Algol88,” which was said to reliably predict the outcomes of soccer matches by continually refining and innovating upon its strategies.


Investors were lured into purchasing high-yield bonds from Bentley’s company, Bentley Global, which was marketed as generating guaranteed annual returns of 12% to 20% irrespective of match results. Promotional materials even went so far as to position the scheme as an asset class “wholly uncorrelated to external economic factors,” suggesting it was a safe investment rather than a risky gambling venture.

Star Endorsements and Implications

To enhance credibility, Bentley’s firm featured former England footballer Peter Reid in promotional brochures. This association with a sports celebrity, combined with the use of financial jargon and AI branding, helped Bentley raise more than £10 million from investors between 2016 and 2020.

However, an investigation by the UK government’s Insolvency Service revealed that Bentley Global had not placed any soccer bets between late 2019 and early 2020, despite having collected approximately £1.6 million from investors during this time frame. Furthermore, the company reported no trading income and incurred losses exceeding £9 million over the preceding two years.

Algorithm Claims and Legal Scrutiny

Further examination by the insolvency consulting firm Begbies Traynor determined that the “Algol88” algorithm described in promotional pitches did not exist in any form resembling what was marketed to investors. The report noted that Bentley was simply using a rudimentary set of trading rules rather than an advanced software platform.

Interestingly, in 2019, £3.5 million was disbursed to early investors, which was a significant portion—41%—of what bondholders had invested up to that point. This pattern of repayments raised alarms among observers, who began to identify potential signs of a Ponzi scheme.

The high volume of payments going to early investors could indicate a classic Ponzi scheme,” highlighted the report.

Recently, Bentley was barred from serving as a company director in the UK for a period of 11 years under British corporate governance regulations. While fraud charges have not been formally laid, the criminal investigation into his activities by Essex Police is still ongoing, leaving many potential investors wary of the ramifications surrounding this case.

Summary

The unfolding of Alan Bentley’s betting scheme highlights serious concerns about the intersection between celebrity endorsement, false promises of guaranteed returns, and the complexities of financial investments masquerading as gambling ventures. As investigations continue, many investors are left grappling with significant losses and the uncertainty of any restitution efforts.

iGaming sports betting: How LVS, Flutter, and OSB Stock Reflect the Future of the Market

iGaming Sports Betting: How LVS and Flutters Growth Impacts the Industry

  • Las Vegas Sands ranked as the largest gaming company in the world according to Forbes
  • Flutter Entertainment stands out as the only dedicated iGaming/sports betting stock included

Las Vegas Sands (NYSE: LVS) has emerged as the premier gaming company, driving massive growth within the iGaming sports betting sector, as reflected in the latest Forbes Global 2000 rankings. This list evaluates the world’s 2000 largest publicly traded companies based on revenue, profit, assets, and market value, highlighting the immense financial scale of the iGaming sports betting industry.

gaming stock
Image by Severinson from Pixabay

Standout rankings reveal that Las Vegas Sands occupies the 836th position, leading the gaming sector and surpassing MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) by 112 spots. It ranks ninth overall in the hotels, restaurants, and leisure category, which McDonald’s and Starbucks lead.

Among the 2,000 companies listed, 621 are based in the United States, representing the most substantial geographic representation. This figure is nearly double the 317 companies from China, with Japan, India, and the UK completing the top five.

Of the six gaming companies highlighted in the list, three are American corporations, including Sands and MGM, one hails from the UK, and the remaining two originate from the Asia-Pacific region.

Why Las Vegas Sands Leads the List

Investors tracking gaming equities are likely aware that Flutter Entertainment (NYSE: FLUT) holds the distinction of being the industry’s largest publicly traded entity based on market capitalization. As of the latest market close, Flutter, the parent company of FanDuel, boasts a market valuation of $47.93 billion against Sands’ $29.61 billion. However, Sands’ high placement on the Forbes list can be attributed to its ranking methodology.

“For the past 23 years, Forbes has compiled the Global 2000 list, ranking the largest companies globally by revenue, profit, assets, and market value, assigning equal weights to each of these metrics,” as detailed in their publication.

Currently, Flutter ranks 967 on the Global 2000, behind Sands and MGM. Notably, it remains the sole dedicated iGaming/sports betting stock on the list. The investment thesis for Flutter is bolstered by its significant market share in mature markets like Australia and Europe, combined with its strategic acquisitions that facilitate entry into higher growth regions such as Brazil.

In the US, where Flutter officially changed its primary stock listing last year, FanDuel stands out as the largest online sportsbook operator and is increasingly influential in the burgeoning iGaming sector.

Other Key Gaming Stocks on the Forbes List

While Sands, MGM, and Flutter dominate the gaming niche among the Forbes Global 2000 rankings, three additional industry players also made the list. The highest-ranked among these is Australia-based Aristocrat Leisure, positioned at 1,340. Following closely is Galaxy Entertainment (1,419), a significant Macau operator, similar to Sands.

Finally, Caesars Entertainment (NASDAQ: CZR), which operates the most domestic casino properties, landed at 1,561 on the list.

The overall list is led by banking giant JPMorgan Chase, followed by Berkshire Hathaway, a leading Chinese bank, Saudi Aramco, and Amazon.

With Las Vegas Sands leading the pack and Flutter emerging as a collaborative force in the iGaming market, the gaming industry continues to evolve with significant potential for growth and investment opportunities.

Key Takeaways

  • Las Vegas Sands has ranked highest in the Forbes Global 2000 list as the largest gaming company.
  • Flutter Entertainment remains the only dedicated iGaming/sports betting stock represented.
  • The majority of the top 2000 companies are based in the US.
  • Understanding the trends and movements in these rankings is crucial for investors and industry stakeholders.

This brightens perspectives for the future of gaming as it reinforces potential opportunities for investment and growth in both established and emerging markets.