Gaming Sector Updates: New Licences, Extension Bans and Payment Probes

Stake has launched a regulated online poker room in Mexico while Google Chrome restricts real-money prediction tools. These developments coincide with regulatory reviews in Ireland and user growth for point-based forecasting platforms in Japan.

Regulatory Developments in Mexico and Ireland

Stake operates its newly licensed poker offering under the existing SEGOB permit that covers its casino and sportsbook operations. The launch expands the operator's regulated presence in Latin America during the World Cup period. In Ireland, an audit revealed that Soft2Bet and five affiliated entities processed €600m from offshore casinos on a blacklist. The funds were routed through shell companies. Two Irish payment processors were also identified as handling transactions for unlicensed European sites, with one operating under an Anjouan licence.

Platform Restrictions and Growth in Japan

Google will enforce a ban on real-money prediction market extensions in the Chrome Web Store starting August 1. The policy affects tools similar to Polymarket and Kalshi, following a June market volume of $291bn. In Japan, Miraima recorded nearly one million monthly users within seven months by distributing points rather than cash. Competitor Poyp uses an identical reward structure. Both companies are seeking real-money operating licences pending potential regulatory approval.