Turkey Seizes $500 Million in Crypto and Assets from Alleged Illegal Betting Financier Şeref Yazıcı
Turkish prosecutors have ordered the seizure of the entire asset portfolio, including an estimated $500 million in cryptocurrency, belonging to Şeref Yazıcı. Yazıcı, identified as the owner of Darkex, is allegedly linked to illegal betting kingpin Veysel Şahin and is suspected of providing infrastructure for illicit gambling operations and money laundering. This action is part of a wider crackdown on illegal betting in Turkey.
China Pledges Deeper International Cooperation Against Cross-Border Fraud and Online Gambling
China has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing international law enforcement cooperation to combat cross-border telecom fraud, online gambling, and related criminal activities. This initiative targets criminal networks operating primarily in Southeast Asia, with recent crackdowns leading to thousands of arrests and repatriations, and the execution of key syndicate leaders.
South Africa Introduces Sweeping New Connectivity Regulations for Affordability and Accessibility
South Africa's Independent Communications Authority (ICASA) has published new regulations aimed at making communication services more affordable and accessible. Effective January 2027, these rules mandate data rollover, allow bundle transfers, and curb unexpected out-of-bundle charges, significantly enhancing consumer protection.
Iceland Moves to Toughen Residence Permit Regulations, Aligning with Nordic Neighbors
Iceland is set to implement stricter residence permit rules, with proposals published for public consultation. The changes aim to align the country's immigration policies with those of neighboring nations, addressing a significant increase in residence and citizenship applications observed between 2020 and 2024.
Over 64,000 Irish Players Win Prizes in EuroMillions Draw as €99.6 Million Jackpot Rolls Over
More than 64,000 Irish EuroMillions players secured prizes in the January 23, 2026 draw, despite the substantial €99.6 million jackpot remaining unclaimed. One lucky Irish ticket holder won €31,075 by matching five main numbers, while 10 others won €5,000 each in the Ireland Only Raffle.
Portugal Orders Polymarket Block Amid Illegal Political Betting and Licensing Violations
Portugal's gambling regulator, SRIJ, has ordered crypto prediction platform Polymarket to cease operations and be blocked nationwide. The directive, issued on January 17, 2026, stems from Polymarket's lack of a Portuguese license and the country's strict prohibition on political betting, particularly after over €103 million was wagered on the recent presidential election.
Brazil's Finance Minister Proposes Central Bank Oversight of Investment Funds Amid Regulatory Concerns
Brazil's Finance Minister Fernando Haddad has proposed expanding the central bank's regulatory mandate to include supervision of investment funds, a role currently held by the securities regulator CVM. The move follows the liquidation of Banco Master and aims to strengthen financial system oversight and address regulatory gaps. Discussions are underway within the government.
Mega-Sena Jackpot Reaches R$ 41 Million After No Winner in Latest Draw
The Mega-Sena lottery prize has accumulated to R$ 41 million for the next draw, scheduled for Saturday, January 17, 2026. This follows the Concurso 2960 draw on Thursday, January 15, where no player matched all six winning numbers.
Brazilian State Football Championships Witness Shift in Naming Rights from Betting to Retail
A notable shift is underway in the naming rights landscape for Brazilian state football championships in 2026. Betting companies are reducing their overall presence, while retail sector brands are significantly increasing their sponsorship, doubling their participation compared to the previous year. This change reflects evolving market dynamics and regulatory considerations within Brazil's sports sponsorship ecosystem.
Flutter Brazil Restructures PR Operations for Pivotal 2026
Flutter Brazil has announced a significant restructuring of its Public Relations operations, engaging Giusti Comunicação for corporate reputation and Sherlock Communications for brand PR. This move aims to strengthen its presence in Brazil's evolving regulated betting market and ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, integrating with other key agencies.
Construction of Japan's First Integrated Resort in Osaka Advances
Construction is advancing on Japan's first integrated resort, the MGM Osaka, located on Yumeshima island. The multi-billion dollar project, a joint venture between MGM Resorts International and Orix Corporation, features a 27-story core facility, casino, hotels, and convention spaces, targeting a 2030 opening.
Australian Government Introduces Bill Granting Tertiary Education Commission Power to Cap International Student Enrollments
Australia's Albanese government has introduced the Universities Accord (Australian Tertiary Education Commission) Bill 2025, which includes provisions to establish the Australian Tertiary Education Commission (ATEC) and grant it powers to impose caps on international student enrollments at the minister's direction.
Greece Introduces Sweeping Regulations for Glamping Industry
Greece's Ministry of Tourism has enacted new regulations on January 6, 2026, to standardize the burgeoning glamping sector. The comprehensive framework focuses on sustainable development, high-quality services, and enhanced accessibility, classifying sites into 4-star and 5-star categories.
South Africa Implements New National Cash Withdrawal Limits to Combat Financial Crime
South Africa has introduced new national banking regulations, effective January 7, 2026, restricting daily and weekly cash withdrawals from ATMs and debit cards. Spearheaded by the South African Reserve Bank, these measures aim to combat fraud, money laundering, and promote digital transactions across all major banks.
Turkey Implements Sweeping Financial Reforms to Combat Illegal Betting and Organized Crime
Turkey has enacted stringent new financial transfer rules, effective January 1, 2026, to intensify its battle against illegal betting, money laundering, and organized crime. The measures, spearheaded by MASAK, include enhanced scrutiny for large transactions and expanded prosecutorial powers under the 11th Judicial Package, aiming to close financial loopholes and safeguard public revenues.
India Implements New Tobacco Tax Regime from February 1, 2026
India's Ministry of Finance has announced a new taxation regime for tobacco products, effective February 1, 2026. The overhaul includes revised excise duties, a new Health and National Security Cess on pan masala, and adjusted GST rates, replacing the previous GST compensation cess. The move aims to deter consumption and generate revenue for public health and national security.
Mega da Virada 2025 Drawing Rescheduled to January 1, 2026, Amid Record Bets and Operational Challenges
Brazil's Mega da Virada 2025 lottery drawing, with a record prize of R$1.09 billion, was postponed from December 31, 2025, to January 1, 2026, by Caixa Econômica Federal due to unprecedented betting volume and operational adjustments. The draw took place at 10 AM Brasília time.
Kuwait Enacts Strict Law Criminalizing Unlicensed Money Exchange Activities
Kuwait has issued a decree-law criminalizing unlicensed currency exchange and hawala operations. Effective January 28, 2026, the new legislation imposes penalties including up to six months imprisonment and fines of up to KD 3,000 for individuals, with businesses facing larger fines and potential closure, aiming to bolster financial stability and combat illicit financial activities.
Turkey's Football Betting Probe Expands, Former Galatasaray Executive Among 29 Detained
Turkish prosecutors have ordered the detention of 29 more suspects, including former Galatasaray executive Erden Timur, in a widening investigation into illegal football betting and match manipulation. The probe has already led to hundreds of suspensions and arrests across Turkish football.
Chilean Senator Proposes New Bill to Restrict Offshore Gambling Advertising Ahead of Presidential Runoff
Independent Senator Karim Bianchi has introduced a bill in the Chilean Congress to penalize advertising for unlicensed offshore betting sites. The move comes just days before the country's presidential runoff election, aiming to address the proliferation of unregulated online gambling and enhance consumer protection amidst ongoing legislative efforts.
