Press Releases
Over half of UK gamblers view betting funds differently to money in their bank accounts, new research reveals

During Safer Gambling Week, BetMGM reveals data that highlights UK gambling and betting habits
Over half of UK gamblers view the money in their accounts with betting websites as different to the money in their bank account, new research from BetMGM can reveal.
To mark Safer Gambling Week in the UK, BetMGM surveyed UK residents who have placed a bet or gambled within the last 12 months, with 51% of them saying they see money in gambling accounts differently to their personal funds. Despite the money holding the same value no matter where it is held, the research highlights that there is an innate awareness of its true value.
Further highlighting this and the need for greater education and awareness around gambling, 19% admitted they usually or always chase their gambling losses, while 14% do not view their winnings as ‘real money’.
However, there is a positive trend among younger players, with those aged between 18-34 more likely (92%) to put a monetary restriction on their betting to ensure their safety.
BetMGM is committed to promoting safer gambling and providing an experience which is safe and enjoyable for all players – and undertook this research to educate the public about gambling habits and how to stay responsible while betting.
Sam Behar, UK Director at BetMGM, said: “The industry has come on leaps and bounds in the past decade – we know so much more about responsible gambling and everyone at BetMGM is devoted to ensuring our customers play safely.
“We’re a huge supporter of Safer Gambling Week but it is something that is core to our business throughout the year.
“We’re delighted to see the growing use of responsible gambling with younger players throughout the UK, but there is always more that can be done. We are striving to improve and introduce new methods to help potential problem gamblers.
“To those who have admitted chasing their losses and those who view the funds in their betting accounts as different to that of their bank accounts, we implore them to see that money as having real-world value.”
BetMGM has tools in place to support players who are feeling uncomfortable about their gambling, including human customer support available 24/7.
Also in place are deposit, loss, session and wagering limits, self-exclusion and ad-limiting tools as well as access to services like therapy, support groups and financial blocks.
Key findings from the report include:
- 51% of UK gamblers view the money in their gambling accounts as different from that in their bank accounts
- 92% of players 18-24 put monetary restrictions on their gambling
- 46% put money won from gambling into their savings
- 26% use gambling winnings to place another bet straight away
- 19% always or usually chase their gambling losses
For more information on safer gambling, please visit betmgm.co.uk/safer-gambling or the Safer Gambling Week website at safergamblinguk.org. You can also call the UK’s National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133.”
Press Releases
James O’Kelly Appointed Head of Corporate Development at SolutionsHub

SolutionsHub is pleased to announce the appointment of James O’Kelly as Head of Corporate Development, a newly established role that underscores the company’s commitment to strategic growth, innovation, and excellence in client service.
Since joining SolutionsHub, James has been instrumental in driving key initiatives across the organization. Over the past 18 months, James has headed high-impact growth intiatives, managed treasury and led sucessful licensing for clients. His contributions have also extended to representing SolutionsHub on the international stage, enhancing the company’s global presence.
In his new role, James will take the lead on a range of high-impact strategic initiatives in close collaboration with the Board of Directors. His primary focus will be on identifying and cultivating key partnerships, as well as spearheading the development of innovative product lines that align with the company’s long-term vision. To fully dedicate his efforts to these forward-looking priorities, James will be transitioning responsibility for day-to-day operations and compliance to other senior members of the leadership team. This shift will enable him to concentrate on shaping the company’s future growth trajectory and ensuring its continued success.
“James has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership and a deep understanding of our business and industry,” said Lee Hills, CEO of SolutionsHub. “His appointment as Head of Corporate Development is a natural evolution that aligns with our long-term strategic goals and further reinforces the strength of our leadership team.”
James will continue to play a pivotal role in advising and supporting clients through increasingly complex regulatory, licensing, and jurisdictional considerations. Leveraging his extensive experience and strong track record of delivering innovative, compliant, and forward-thinking solutions.
The post James O’Kelly Appointed Head of Corporate Development at SolutionsHub appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Industry Awards
ELA Games Receives Key Nomination at EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards

The studio is shortlisted for the “Brand of the Year – B2B” category
ELA Games, an innovative game development studio, has been shortlisted for the “Brand of the Year – B2B” category at the upcoming EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards 2025.
The EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards is an event that celebrates key figures and innovative brands within the iGaming industry. The ceremony recognises companies that demonstrate commercial success through game-changing creativity and contributions to the improvement of the industry. It gathers the brightest and most influential minds to reward those who have helped the online gaming sector grow.
ELA Games’ nomination for the “Brand of the Year – B2B” category highlights the company’s efforts in creating a portfolio that balances operator-centric growth with player-friendly gaming experiences. The studio has demonstrated a commitment to helping operators improve player acquisition and retention metrics through data-backed performance, making it a beneficial partner.
Marharyta Yerina, ELA Games’ Managing Director, commented on the nomination, “The ELA Games team is proud to receive a nomination for a significant category at a prestigious event. We’ve made considerable strides in 2025 to develop our portfolio and create games that both help operators grow and provide fun for players. We look forward to networking with all our peers at the ceremony, and congratulations to all nominees!”
The EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards 2025 will take place on June 19, 2025, at The Mermaid, London. The ELA Games team will attend the ceremony for a night of excitement, networking, and celebration.
The post ELA Games Receives Key Nomination at EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Giorgia Kasat
Reals Appoints Giorgia Kasat as New Head of HR, Strengthening Organizational Strategy in the Betting Industry
Leading Brazilian Betting Brand Reals Welcomes Former Itaú and Votorantim Executive to Drive Human Capital Development
Reals, one of Brazil’s leading regulated online betting and gaming platforms, has announced the appointment of Giorgia Kasat as its new Head of Human Resources. With over 20 years of experience in strategic people management, organizational transformation, and leadership development, Giorgia brings a wealth of expertise from her roles at major corporations such as Votorantim, Banco Itaú, Duratex, Capgemini, and Munksjö.
Recognized as a finalist in the 2024 “Most Admired CEOs and HR Leaders” awards by Grupo Gestão RH, Giorgia also holds an Executive Business degree from Fundação Dom Cabral, an MBA in Business Management from Fundação Getúlio Vargas (FGV), and certification in Group Psychodrama from PUC-SP.
“We believe that a company’s success is directly linked to its ability to foster the best in its people within a healthy, growth-oriented environment. Giorgia’s human-centered leadership style drives engagement and positive results. As a serious and regulated company, professionalism is a core value for us, and her arrival is a strategic step in our organizational growth,” said Hilton Andrade, CFO of Reals.
Giorgia expressed enthusiasm about joining Reals at a pivotal moment for the company and the industry: “I’m excited to take on this new challenge with a major player in the betting and online gaming industry. My passion lies in developing people who go on to inspire and empower others. Together, we’ll build a strong culture of growth, diversity, and performance in a sector that is rapidly consolidating in Brazil and globally.”
Reals Expands Workforce and Strengthens Market Presence
Amid rapid expansion, Reals is in the process of hiring approximately 1500 new employees and preparing to move into a new 6,000 m² headquarters in São Paulo. Already a standout in the market, Reals made headlines earlier this year by becoming the first Brazilian betting operator to sponsor a major European football club, AC Milan, as its Official Regional Betting Partner for Latin America.
Reals also holds a master sponsorship with Coritiba Foot Ball Club in Brazil and boasts an all-star ambassador roster led by TV personality Rodrigo Faro, alongside popular influencers Ítalo Sena, Edu Primitivo, and Gabi Nery.
With a 9.5 rating on Reclame Aqui, Reals is among the top-rated licensed betting operators in Brazil, reinforcing its reputation for reliability and customer trust.
The post Reals Appoints Giorgia Kasat as New Head of HR, Strengthening Organizational Strategy in the Betting Industry appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
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