(AsiaGameHub) - In a move that has surprised many, prediction market platforms Kalshi and Polymarket have opted out of the Kentucky Derby this year, despite a recent history of offering contracts on a wide range of events from politics to sports. Both firms declined to list a market for the annual Derby, a premier horse race held at Churchill Downs that consistently attracts enormous betting activity. “There Is a Door That Could Be Opened” Polymarket made a short-lived attempt to open a market for the Derby last week, but it was quickly taken down. Churchill Downs confirmed the platform removed the offering following a request. “We contacted Polymarket and requested the removal of the wagers,” Churchill Downs spokesperson Breck Thomas-Ross informed ESPN. “Polymarket agreed to the request.” Kalshi, for its part, did not announce any intention to facilitate trading on the race. This reluctance appears unexpected considering the aggressive expansion of prediction markets into sports. Industry analysts, however, cite a major legal obstacle: the Interstate Horseracing Act. This federal law grants racetracks and state authorities considerable authority over horse race betting. “The law is currently quite explicit about what [prediction markets] can do without obtaining consent from our sport,” stated Tom Rooney, president of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association. “Consent from a racetrack, a state gaming commission, or a horseman's group could open a door. That consent has not been granted at this time.” “The Wagering Is the Event” Rooney has also cautioned federal regulators that permitting these markets could damage the horse racing industry, which depends on betting income to fund purses, track operations, and breeding initiatives. “The betting activity is the central focus of the Kentucky Derby,” commented John Holden. “The primary reason most attendees go to the Derby is to wager on the race.” The previous year's Derby saw record-breaking betting volume, with wagers totaling hundreds of millions of dollars. This revenue is channeled directly back into the sport via taxes and revenue-sharing deals. According to experts, prediction markets pose a threat to this financial model. A migration of betting to these platforms would reduce the amount of money returning to the horse racing industry. “If a significant number of people turn to these prediction markets, the racetracks would face severe financial difficulties,” explained economist Thomas Lambert. The Derby, held on May 1-2, 2026, was won by the longshot Golden Tempo, a horse with 23-1 odds. Renegade, Ocelli, and Chief Wallabee finished behind the winner. Cherie DeVaux, the trainer of Golden Tempo, became the first woman to train a Kentucky Derby winner. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
New York Takes Steps to Examine Risks and Growth of Prop Bets
(AsiaGameHub) - In New York, lawmakers are advancing a new legislative measure to investigate a rapidly expanding area within the sports betting industry. Introduced in late April, the proposal aims to establish a special task force to assess proposition bets—particularly so-called “under” wagers. Task Force Plan Aims to Examine Growth of Prop Betting Senate Bill S10153, sponsored by Jeremy Zellner, is currently under review by a Senate committee responsible for gaming and wagering matters. If enacted, the bill would create an independent panel to analyze how these bets function and the potential risks they present. Proposition betting diverges from standard betting by focusing on specific in-game events rather than the overall result. “Under” bets allow bettors to place wagers that an athlete will fall short of a predetermined statistical threshold, such as achieving fewer points or assists than anticipated. The legislation would form a four-member task force selected by senior state officials, including the governor and legislative leaders. Task force members would serve without compensation but would be reimbursed for necessary expenses. Appointments must be finalized by mid-2026. The panel’s responsibilities include evaluating the frequency of “under” bets, their financial impact, and their broader economic influence on New York’s legal sports betting sector. It will also examine potential threats to sports integrity, specifically whether such bets could encourage match manipulation. Prop Bet Oversight Effort Set to Address Integrity and Safety A key focus of the review will be the effects on athletes, amid rising reports of harassment and online abuse directed at players when their performance influences betting outcomes. The task force will investigate how this pressure affects both professional and collegiate athletes. The study will also address consumer protection and problem gambling. The law underscores the importance of understanding public perceptions of these bets and determining if enhanced safeguards are warranted. It calls for an assessment of systems designed to detect unusual or suspicious betting activity. To fulfill its mandate, the panel will collaborate with regulators, industry stakeholders, researchers, and sports organizations. The process may include public hearings and solicitation of input as needed. Relevant data will be supplied by state agencies and licensed betting operators, provided it remains within legal boundaries. A final report containing findings and recommendations is due by the end of 2026. The results will be made available to the public and may inform future decisions regarding stricter oversight or expanded restrictions on proposition betting in New York. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
Prediction Markets Urge CFTC to Narrow Gaming Rules
(AsiaGameHub) - The Coalition for Prediction Markets, an organization representing prediction market platforms, has urged U.S. regulators to clarify how federal regulations define "gaming," expressing concern that a broad interpretation could hinder industry growth. The Need for a Narrow Definition In a letter addressed to Christopher Kirkpatrick at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), the group contended that current rules may incorrectly classify activities that should not be considered gambling. Companies such as Kalshi assert that their offerings are financial instruments, not gambling services, maintaining that event contracts enable users to trade on real-world outcomes in a manner that generates valuable market insights. Central to the debate is a CFTC regulation that prohibits contracts related to “terrorism, assassination, war, gaming, or any activity unlawful under state or federal law,” as well as other actions deemed contrary to the public interest. The core issue lies in the interpretation of the term "gaming." The coalition is requesting the agency to define the term narrowly, restricting it to casino-style games rather than encompassing sports-related contracts. They argue this distinction is crucial to differentiate prediction markets from conventional gambling. “The Coalition advocates for a formal rule defining ‘gaming’ to include only casino-style games traditionally regulated by states. This would clearly distinguish event contracts traded on designated contract markets,” the letter stated. The matter has already arisen in court. Judges in the Ninth Circuit recently questioned why casino gaming would exclude sports betting, noting that wagering on sports is a common feature in casinos. The “Economic Significance” Factor The coalition emphasized that prediction markets function differently. “Event contracts on DCMs are linked to real-world events with potential financial, economic, or commercial implications. Wagers on casino games lack any economic significance beyond the bet itself.” In contrast, state regulators maintain that contracts tied to sporting outcomes fall under state sports betting laws, which require licensing and are administered locally. Additionally, professional sports leagues are seeking more stringent oversight, contending these markets present risks similar to traditional betting but currently lack comparable safeguards. Among proposals submitted during the public comment period, which concluded on May 1, are recommendations to raise the minimum participation age to 21, implement real-time monitoring for suspicious trades, and restrict certain contract types involving injuries or officiating decisions. Now, the CFTC must determine whether to revise its rules—a decision that could influence the trajectory of prediction markets in the United States and clarify whether they will continue expanding into sports-related contracts. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
Companies Dissolve Underground Betting Operation Before Report Release
(AsiaGameHub) - UK-focused offshore gambling giant dismantles major corporate entities days before new probe report is released, sparking renewed concerns over accountability and regulatory gaps. Black Market Betting Network Dissolves Key Companies Before Investigative Report The results, due to be published by GAMRS and Deal Me Out, examine a group that has been widely linked to brands including MyStake, GoldenBet, DonBet and Rolletto. It is believed to have taken billions of pounds of bets from UK users without a proper license to operate in the market. Ahead of publication, details show that two key companies in the structure, Santeda International B.V. and GTW B.V., have formally been closed down. The timing has attracted interest, given the increased scrutiny created by prior investigations into the group’s activities. In late 2025, the last GAMRS report described a sprawling, multi-jurisdictional system for concealing ownership and avoiding regulation. The Curaçao-based entities acted as licensing fronts, with operational control largely traceable to Georgia, and technical and financial hubs throughout Europe. In this way, the network was able to operate in both regulated and unregulated markets with low transparency. The backbone of the ecosystem is platform provider Upgaming, which, investigators said, was more than just a software supplier. The earlier report provided evidence that multiple gambling sites had shared backend infrastructure, hosting environments, and even customer service systems, indicating that they were centrally managed behind the scenes. Millions of UK Bettors Use the Websites Despite Crackdown The traffic analysis also revealed the scale of the operation. Associated platforms drew millions of visits, with the UK being the largest source of users. Enforcement efforts have cut off some access to content, but engagement levels remained high. The companies, which have recently been dissolved, were run by corporate services provider IGA Group. Following the entity’s cessation of involvement, directorship was reported to have passed to an individual called Xianbo Wei before the entity was ultimately deleted from official registers. Investigators suggest legal entities are dissolved, and operations continue through active websites, leaving consumers exposed. However, there is no clear corporate body to deal with disputes, so users may face significant problems in recovering funds. The latest report was briefly delayed by legal correspondence from a leading UK law firm, but the report’s authors have confirmed it will be published after a short right of reply period for named parties. The paper that follows will likely extend these results, looking in more detail at how the network responds to pressure. These include altering corporate structures, keeping shared technical systems, and continuing to target restricted markets. With billions of alleged UK betting volume and increasing media attention, the case is likely to spur calls for tougher enforcement against offshore operators and those who provide their infrastructure. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
Formula 1 Onboards FanDuel as Multi-Year Official Betting Operator Partner
(AsiaGameHub) - Formula 1 has announced FanDuel as its newest Official Betting Operator. By partnering with a leading online gaming entity, the top motorsports series aims to bolster its footprint in the United States and the broader North American entertainment sector. Formula 1 and FanDuel Aim for Deeper Integration to Provide Racing Fans with Enhanced Experiences This collaboration promises mutual benefits for both organizations. FanDuel’s 17 million users in the United States and Canada will gain access to real-time data and betting scenarios throughout every race weekend. Simultaneously, Formula 1 plans to feature the operator’s content, such as the Betting Guide and various editorial pieces, on its official app and website. Jonny Haworth, Director of Commercial Partnerships at Formula 1, celebrated FanDuel’s appointment as the new Official Betting Operator, noting that this move serves to deepen the connection between fans and the Formula 1 brand. “With sports betting playing an ever-growing role in how fans—particularly those in the US—engage with sports, it is essential that we collaborate with a robust, strategic partner to drive our market momentum. FanDuel, with its vast user base, provides another channel through which eligible fans can engage with and feel the excitement of Formula 1,” Haworth concluded. FanDuel Looks Forward to Enhancing Fan Engagement via Its Sportsbook Platform Karol Corcoran, Managing Director of FanDuel Sportsbook, expressed similar enthusiasm regarding the formation of this partnership and the designation as an Official Betting Operator, highlighting the potential for more interactive fan experiences. “Formula 1 produces a vast amount of real-time data, and our platform is designed to convert that information into compelling betting opportunities. Through this partnership, we will be able to offer even more immersive, data-rich experiences for fans throughout the race weekend,” he concluded. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
陶朱新造局雙店聯動 首程控股（697.HK）機器人生態加速走向消費端
香港, 2026年5月4日 - (亞太商訊 via SeaPRwire.com) - 首程控股（697.HK）旗下機器人科技體驗品牌「陶朱新造局」正在加速進入核心消費場景。4月30日，陶朱新造局北京 apm 門店正式開業營運；5月1日，北京朝陽合生匯門店接續亮相。兩家位於核心商圈的門店聯動落地，不僅擴大了品牌在線下消費場景中的觸點，也標誌著首程控股機器人產業佈局從投資端、產業端進一步延伸至大眾消費端。陶朱新造局圍繞「古意新造」的品牌理念，面向機器人科技體驗和未來生活消費場景，構建了一個融合機器人展示、沉浸式體驗、互動交流、產品銷售、售後維保與產業生態交流等多重功能的複合型智能生活空間。在北京 apm 門店現場，機器狗行走展示、陪伴機器人問答、智能穿戴試用等環節，也讓前沿科技從靜態展示轉化為真實消費體驗，推動消費者從「看科技」走向「試科技」「買科技」。繼北京 apm 門店以沉浸式互動打開消費觸點後，北京朝陽合生匯門店的落地，則進一步將這一體驗模式引入高頻商業場景，放大其商業轉化與場景驗證價值。合生匯位於 CBD 核心區域，具備高客流、年輕化和家庭消費頻次高等優勢。此次合作並非單一開店，而是商圈營運方與機器人產業平台的跨界升級。雙方將通過機器人展演、科創互動體驗、節日限定優惠、科普課程和主題活動等內容，打造「商圈+科技」的流量新引擎。對商圈而言，陶朱新造局有助於製造話題、聚合客流、延長停留；對機器人企業而言，則提供真實用戶反饋、市場驗證、銷售轉化和售後觸達渠道，推動前沿機器人產品從展會、實驗室走向高頻消費場景。從首程控股整體機器人版圖看，陶朱新造局的意義在於補齊商業化閉環。近年來，首程控股圍繞具身智能、人形機器人、醫療機器人、服務機器人等方向持續加碼，投資組合已涵蓋宇樹科技、銀河通用、雲鯨智能、星海圖、松延動力、未磁科技、羅森博特等多家企業。機器人產業當前正處於從技術突破走向規模應用的關鍵階段，企業普遍需要真實場景、銷售渠道、用戶數據和售後體系支撐，而陶朱新造局正承擔著「產業出口」和「消費入口」的雙重角色。更值得關注的是，首程控股依託自身在基礎設施資產營運、產業空間管理、基金投資及 REITs 生態方面的積累，公司正在構建「投資+應用+消費」的產業模式：前端通過基金投資鎖定優質機器人企業，中端通過產業空間和應用場景推動技術落地，後端通過陶朱新造局等消費渠道觸達用戶、形成交易和服務閉環。對於資本市場而言，陶朱新造局的擴張提供了觀察首程控股機器人戰略成色的新窗口。機器人產業的長期價值，不僅取決於技術先進性，也取決於產品能否進入真實生活、形成穩定訂單和持續複購。隨著首鋼園、首都機場、apm、合生匯等多元場景逐步鋪開，首程控股正在把機器人生態從「投得早、投得準」推進到「賣得出、用得上、服務得到」。市場人士分析指出，陶朱新造局有望成為首程控股機器人產業佈局中最貼近現金流、用戶和場景的一環。 Copyright 2026 亞太商訊 via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
陶朱新造局落子北京核心商圈 首程控股（697.HK）機器人生態加速破圈
香港, 2026年5月4日 - (亞太商訊 via SeaPRwire.com) - 機器人產業的商業化競爭，正在從技術展示進入真實消費場景。首程控股（697.HK）旗下機器人科技體驗品牌「陶朱新造局」近期在北京核心商圈加快落地，繼 4 月 30 日北京 apm 門店正式開業後，朝陽合生匯門店也接續於 5 月 1 日正式亮相，進一步完善公司機器人線下體驗網絡。在北京 apm 門店，陶朱新造局延續品牌「古意新造」理念，打造集展示體驗、互動交流、產品銷售及維保服務於一體的沉浸式智能生活空間。消費者可近距離接觸人形機器人、陪伴機器人、智能穿戴設備等產品，在家庭服務輔助、娛樂互動體驗、智能生活試用等場景中，感受機器人技術從「可看」走向「可用」。朝陽合生匯門店進一步強化了陶朱新造局的商圈消費屬性。圍繞「科技賦能商業、創新引領消費」，門店將引入宇樹科技、加速進化、Vbot 等生態夥伴產品，覆蓋四足機器狗、教育編程機器人、智能穿戴、智能家居等智能設備，並通過機器人展演、科創互動、科普課程、主題活動及節日限定活動等形式，吸引年輕客群、親子家庭和科技愛好者參與體驗與消費轉化，打造機器人科技消費體驗標杆項目，推動傳統商圈向「科技+商業」融合場景升級。從北京佈局看，陶朱新造局已覆蓋首鋼園、首都機場、北京 apm、朝陽合生匯等點位，形成連接產業地標、交通樞紐和核心商圈的立體化機器人消費網絡。首鋼園承接產業展示與科技體驗，機場門店觸達高流動旅客客群，北京 apm 與合生匯則切入城市核心商業消費場景，不同點位共同構成首程控股機器人產品的展示、體驗和銷售前台。與此同時，陶朱新造局也在推動全國化複製。其此前已亮相成都春熙路商圈，借助西南核心消費地標測試「沉浸交互+現場體驗+即時購買」的消費路徑。隨著未來向更多核心城市商圈拓展，陶朱新造局有望把北京經驗複製到全國市場。對於首程控股而言，陶朱新造局將進一步補齊其機器人產業商業化鏈條。公司前端投資優質機器人企業，中端導入園區、機場、商圈等多元場景，後端通過門店完成體驗、銷售、維保和服務閉環。隨著機器人產業進入應用落地加速期，陶朱新造局正成為首程控股最貼近用戶、訂單與現金流的機器人消費入口。 Copyright 2026 亞太商訊 via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
郵艇爆發造成3人死亡 官員延誤醫療疏散並調查hantavirus威脅
(SeaPRwire) - 世界衛生組織（WHO）在X（前身為Twitter）上發布的一份聲明中表示，大西洋上的一艘郵輪疑似爆發漢他病毒疫情，已造成三人死亡，數人染病。聯合國衛生機構表示，已實驗室確診一例漢他病毒感染，另有五例疑似病例正在等待確認。六名受影響者中，三人已死亡，一人目前在南非接受加護治療。世衛組織表示，正與各國政府及該郵輪營運商協調，安排兩名出現症狀的乘客進行醫療後送，同時持續評估船上人員的公共衛生風險。世衛組織表示：「詳細調查正在進行中，包括進一步的實驗室檢測和流行病學調查。」「正為乘客和船員提供醫療照護和支持。病毒定序工作也正在進行中。」此次疫情與停泊在大西洋西非海岸的荷蘭籍郵輪 m/v Hondius 有關。營運該船的 Oceanwide Expeditions 公司證實，有三名乘客在航程中死亡，另有一名乘客正在約翰尼斯堡接受加護治療。該公司表示，船上還有兩名船員需要緊急醫療照護。根據該公司表示，截至週日晚間，維德角當局尚未授權讓需要醫療處理或更廣泛醫療篩檢的乘客下船。當地衛生官員已登上該船評估情況，但尚未批准將出現症狀的個人轉移到陸地設施。該公司表示：「Oceanwide Expeditions 的首要任務是確保船上兩名出現症狀的個人獲得充分且迅速的醫療照護。」Oceanwide Expeditions 表示，荷蘭當局正努力協調將受影響者從維德角遣返荷蘭，但此舉取決於當地官員的批准。漢他病毒感染通常與接觸受感染囓齒動物的尿液或糞便有關，可能導致嚴重的呼吸道疾病。世衛組織表示：「漢他病毒雖然罕見，但可能在人與人之間傳播，並可能導致嚴重的呼吸道疾病，需要仔細的病人監測、支持和應對。」目前沒有針對該病毒的特效藥，但早期治療可以提高存活率。世衛組織表示，已根據國際法規通知全球衛生當局，並將繼續支持應對措施。Oceanwide Expeditions 表示：「我們目前正在確立全部事實，並致力於提供適當的醫療照護、篩檢和後續步驟。」本文由第三方廠商內容提供者提供。SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/)對此不作任何保證或陳述。 分類: 頭條新聞,日常新聞 SeaPRwire為公司和機構提供全球新聞稿發佈，覆蓋超過6,500個媒體庫、86,000名編輯和記者，以及350萬以上終端桌面和手機App。SeaPRwire支持英、日、德、韓、法、俄、印尼、馬來、越南、中文等多種語言新聞稿發佈。
索馬里海盜與胡塞聯盟以重新採用扣劫手法攻擊價值1兆美元油路線
(SeaPRwire) - 索馬利亞海盜活動激增，引發各界對紅海「安全真空」的憂慮，分析師警告，一場與伊朗支持的胡塞武裝有關的海上犯罪手法正死灰復燃。據路透社報導，這一警告發布之際，葉門海岸警衛隊5月2日報告稱，武裝人員在沙布瓦外海劫持了一艘油輪，並將其駛向亞丁灣，目前該船隻已被定位，營救行動正在進行中。"There is a fundamental shift in the maritime center of gravity amid a new phase of maritime instability in the region," Ido Shalev, chief operating officer at RTCOM Defense, told Digital."Somali and Houthi-linked groups are teaming up — using skiffs and new tech to strike ships with coordination not seen in a decade — while Saudi crude rerouted from the Strait of Hormuz has created a ‘target-rich environment for them,’" he added."There is an opportunistic alignment, with the Houthis providing geopolitical cover and advanced GPS and surveillance, and Somali groups providing the boots on the ground or skiffs on the water," Shalev said.With the MT Eureka taken off Shabwa, Shalev, a former Israeli naval officer, suggested what he called the "Somali model" had returned "with a vengeance.""This is a transactional collaboration, and in the exact area where the Houthis are active and would like to cause damage and support their IRGC sponsor," he said before describing how pirates would hijack the entire ship and cargo, taking them to a secure anchorage "like Qandala or Garacad.""They then demand a ransom for the entire package: the vessel, the tens of millions of dollars in oil, and the crew," he said.The surge in regional risk is also exacerbated, Shalev said, by the volatility of the Strait of Hormuz. As Iranian-backed threats persist in the Persian Gulf, global energy flows are shifting."Due to the closure and instability of the Strait of Hormuz, Saudi Arabia has diverted millions of barrels of crude per day through its East-West pipeline to the Red Sea port of Yanbu," the former Israeli naval officer said."This creates a target-rich environment in a sector that was previously a backbound route. With Brent Crude prices surging — peaking near $115/bbl this quarter — the prize for a successful hijacking has never been higher."The risk level in waters off Somalia was recently upgraded to "substantial" following a wave of hijackings and attempted attacks that began April 21, according to Windward AI and alerts from the U.K. Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).At least three vessels were hijacked within days: a Somali-flagged fishing boat on April 21, followed by the Palau-flagged tanker Honour 25 (IMO 1099735), and, by April 26, a general cargo ship seized and redirected to Garacad.Shalev, who served as the lead architect for Nigeria’s "Falcon Eye" project — a surveillance system that successfully reduced piracy in those waters to 0% — warned that the distraction of global warships is being exploited."Because international naval forces are preoccupied with missile threats, a ‘security vacuum’ has now opened in the region, so pirates can travel vast distances in skiffs to board vulnerable commercial vessels," he said."Somali piracy, which had been suppressed for years, has seen this sharp resurgence that also correlates perfectly with the Houthi crisis in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden," Shalev said.The Red Sea carries 12% to 15% of global trade and about 30% of container traffic, moving over $1 trillion in goods annually, including oil and LNG, according to reports."The current crisis proves that you cannot ‘patrol’ your way out of this; you have to see the threat before it ever reaches the ship," Shalev said.本文由第三方廠商內容提供者提供。SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/)對此不作任何保證或陳述。 分類: 頭條新聞,日常新聞 SeaPRwire為公司和機構提供全球新聞稿發佈，覆蓋超過6,500個媒體庫、86,000名編輯和記者，以及350萬以上終端桌面和手機App。SeaPRwire支持英、日、德、韓、法、俄、印尼、馬來、越南、中文等多種語言新聞稿發佈。
三十年後，一部邪典恐怖電影仍具影響力
Archive Photos/Moviepix/Getty Images(SeaPRwire) - 2026年，少女們在恐怖電影方面的選擇比以往任何時候都多。最近，《Forbidden Fruits》就是專門為這個曾經被忽視的族群製作的，正如我在《Inverse》對該片的評論中所提到的。但在「女孩恐怖」成為Diablo Cody眼中的靈感閃現之前十年，有一部恐怖電影在各地喜愛巫術的少女心中獨占鰲頭。《The Craft》於1996年5月3日上映，大多數男性評論家對其反應冷淡。然而，它在票房上成為一匹黑馬，並建立了一群死忠粉絲，1997年夏天以VHS和DVD形式發行後，粉絲群體進一步擴大。我第一次接觸《The Craft》是在90年代末的一次睡衣派對上，看完電影後我們嘗試玩「輕如鴻毛，硬如木板」的遊戲。沒人像電影中的Rochelle（Rachel True）那樣飄離地面幾英尺，但我敢發誓，隨著我們不斷吟唱，我感覺朋友的身體變得越來越輕。是我的手指麻木了嗎？也許吧。但無論如何，那感覺很神奇。這就是《The Craft》如此特別的原因之一：電影中的睡衣派對場景（其中包含一個著名片段，Robin Tunney飾演的Sarah使用魅力魔法將頭髮從赤褐色變成金髮）激發我們重現螢幕上的畫面，而電影中描繪的儀式也成為了有抱負的巫師的入門指南。透過一位擁有神秘學商店的朋友——位於洛杉磯市中心的Lirio’s Occult Shop，電影中幾個場景顯示女孩們在那裡瀏覽——導演Andrew Fleming請Dianic女祭司Pat Devin協助處理電影中的魔法元素；身為前少女巫師的她同意了。由於Devin的參與，《The Craft》實際上相當準確地描繪了90年代中期威卡教（Wiccan）咒語和儀式的樣子，但有一個重大例外：Mannon並不是真實的威卡教神祇。（Devin曾表示，她不希望「成群的青少年跑到海灘或森林裡召喚任何真實存在的神祇」。）All sleepovers end this way. | Peter Iovino/Columbia/Kobal/Shutterstock在互聯網的早期，這類資訊更難尋找，尤其是在那些沒有自己的神秘學商店的小城鎮。這為電影增添了一層魅力，儘管激勵想成為哥德女孩的人過著最詭異的生活並不是吸引青少年觀眾的唯一原因。《The Craft》給年輕觀眾的另一個慰藉是它描繪了許多青少年（即使是那些不熱衷於巫術的人）經歷的痛苦成長儀式：朋友群體的破裂。儘管大多數高中壞女孩沒有女巫團領袖Nancy（Fairuza Balk）那樣的破壞力，但當你的朋友突然決定不喜歡你時，感覺就像那樣，這使得電影的超自然恐怖情節紮根於真實世界的情感。為什麼多代青少年都能與這些角色產生共鳴是有原因的：當你感覺與同儕不同時，你擁有的朋友就是一切。如果那樣的關係消失了，感覺就像這部電影的高潮一樣戲劇化。Rachel True in 2023. | Arnold Turner/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty ImagesRochelle這個角色特別有影響力。儘管1996年她被排除在電影的宣傳活動之外，但Rachel True對一位擁有力量的年輕黑人女巫的描繪——以及她對自己作為演員在好萊塢面對種族主義經歷的坦誠——使她成為巫師和少數族裔恐怖粉絲中的偶像。作為現實生活中的修行者，她甚至在2020年推出了自己的塔羅牌《True Heart Intuitive Tarot》。所有這些因素結合在一起，賦予《The Craft》一種魔法氛圍，此後許多以巫師為主題的電影和電視劇都試圖重現這種氛圍。偶爾，它們會成功。但如果你想要一部整個女巫團都能欣賞的電影，仍然沒有什麼能比得上《The Craft》。《The Craft》可在Prime Video和其他數位平台上租借。本文由第三方廠商內容提供者提供。SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/)對此不作任何保證或陳述。 分類: 頭條新聞,日常新聞 SeaPRwire為公司和機構提供全球新聞稿發佈，覆蓋超過6,500個媒體庫、86,000名編輯和記者，以及350萬以上終端桌面和手機App。SeaPRwire支持英、日、德、韓、法、俄、印尼、馬來、越南、中文等多種語言新聞稿發佈。
South Korea Police Arrest Over 6,000 in Crackdown on Illegal Gambling Pubs
(AsiaGameHub) - Police report that numerous South Korean gambling experience pubs are allowing patrons to place real-money bets on poker and other casino games, just before a new crackdown targeting the so-called “Texas Hold ’em pubs.” Law enforcement officials nationwide will increase their oversight of pubs that provide casino-style experiences in exchange for a cover fee. For four consecutive years, police have launched similar initiatives, driven by complaints that these pubs enable some customers to gamble using cash. Between 2023 and 2025, police carried out three “intensive” crackdowns, resulting in the arrest of 6,285 individuals on charges related to running unlicensed gambling venues or engaging in illegal betting. During the same timeframe, detectives seized approximately 24 billion won (equivalent to $16.3 million) in suspected gambling proceeds, according to South Korean news outlet Newsis. Authorities state they will closely monitor these pubs from May through August, noting that illegal operators are employing “growing secrecy” to hide their unlawful activities. Per South Korean law, only one casino—the state-run High1 in Gangwon Province—is allowed to welcome domestic passport holders. Nevertheless, this has not curbed the growth of illegal gambling, as officials put the size of the underground industry at $65 billion. Illegal gambling operations at a so-called “Texas Hold ’em pub” in South Korea. (Image: Busan Metropolitan Police Agency) South Korean Gambling Experience Pubs: ‘Intense’ Enforcement Campaign The National Police Agency noted that its newest crackdown is a reaction to criminals’ growing use of “advanced and secretive operational tactics.” The agency highlighted an increase in “highly secure social media platforms” like Telegram. Police report that some illegal operators utilize encrypted messaging applications to organize private real-money betting events. According to police, many operators are cautious of law enforcement oversight and implement strict “membership and reservation systems.” Some use CCTV networks and hire security personnel to ensure only trusted patrons access their locations outside regular business hours. Police state that many operators covertly swap the gaming chips used at their venues for cash. Additionally, some earn commissions for referring customers to real-money gambling spots. Police have discovered that numerous venues host illegal Texas Hold ’em tournaments requiring entry fees from participants. Officers added that many of these tournaments “award substantial cash prizes to winners.” Appeal for Whistleblowers In certain instances, groups of operators may face organized crime charges if prosecutors can demonstrate that the group “systematically assigned” roles to its members. Legislators have supported police efforts through new laws. In 2024, members of parliament passed an amendment to the Tourism Promotion Act. This new provision permits the penalization of “quasi-casino operations” at Texas Hold ’em pubs. Police have informed potential whistleblowers that they could receive a reward of up to $34,000 for information that results in an arrest. The agency also noted that illegal gamblers who surrender themselves during this period will qualify for “discretionary leniency.” Police stated that officers will avoid “random crackdowns on businesses that comply with legal regulations.” According to data from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, South Korea had 1,200 Texas Hold ’em pubs across the country in 2023. Despite their name, numerous South Korean Texas Hold ’em pubs provide a broad range of casino-style games beyond poker, such as roulette, blackjack, craps, and baccarat. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
Thai Police Crack Down on $15.3M Online Casino Money Laundering Operation
(AsiaGameHub) - Thai authorities report dismantling a money laundering operation that served a well-known online gambling network. In an official statement, the Thai Department of Special Investigation (DSI) announced the freezing and seizure of funds from multiple bank accounts amounting to more than 500 million baht, equivalent to $15.3 million. Law enforcement stated they conducted a raid on a factory location in Chom Thong District, Bangkok, on the afternoon of April 27. There, they apprehended a man identified as Chaiyuth (surname withheld) based on a warrant from March. The Wat Raja Orasaram monastery in Chom Thong District, Bangkok. (Image: Hdamm/Heinrich Damm [CC BY 2.0]) Police confirmed the suspect faces three distinct charges related to money laundering. Authorities further stated that Chaiyuth has been detained pending a hearing at a criminal court in the Thai capital. Investigators allege Chaiyuth created a series of shell accounts, which he used to process illicit funds originating from several online casinos. According to police, all these casinos are run by the same online gambling syndicate. The case is still ongoing as officers pursue their probe into the broader criminal group. Thai Police Pursue Gambling Den Operators This arrest coincided with a government announcement about extending a major crackdown targeting illegal gambling dens, transnational crime syndicates, and forgers of immigration papers. As reported by Thai outlet The Better, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the media on April 30 alongside cabinet members and security agency representatives. The Prime Minister explained that the initiative, dubbed Operation Dragon’s Scales, has already led to the shutdown of a large network of illegal gambling dens in Nakhon Ratchasima province and Bangkok. Officials verified that police executed raids at numerous locations in both areas. The crackdown in Nakhon Ratchasima led to the arrest of 89 people and the confiscation of millions of dollars from the alleged den operators. Police estimate the provincial dens generated roughly 60 million baht (over $1.8 million) monthly. Simultaneously, raids on two Bangkok gambling dens resulted in 100 arrests. Police indicated both venues also earned "tens of millions of baht" each month. Officials stated that police will now broaden the investigation across the country. As part of the same operation, more than 900 police units will work to locate and close many additional illegal betting dens, the officials added. Thailand's social media landscape was recently shaken when “Beer” Anusorn Pothong, an influencer with more than 7.2 million TikTok followers, ended a long hiatus to reveal his addiction to online gambling. Pothong stated that addiction to online casinos had destroyed his personal life and derailed his business ambitions. The influencer confessed to accumulating gambling debts totaling $621,000. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.