Roblox, the popular online gaming platform, is implementing stricter measures to protect young users. New age-based restrictions, a rating system, and increased content moderation aim to address concerns regarding child safety and inappropriate interactions. These changes come amidst scrutiny from regulators and reports of potential risks to younger players.
DraftKings Inc. (DKNG) is set to report its third-quarter earnings on Thursday, with analysts expecting strong revenue growth driven by the NFL season and new state legalizations. Key areas to watch include the company’s performance in the NFL betting market, guidance on the future of sports betting, and updates on its recent acquisition of Jackpocket.
DraftKings Inc. (DKNG) stock has soared in recent weeks, driven by strong customer growth, new product features, and a bullish outlook for the online gaming industry. The company is benefiting from increased new customer sign-ups and improved product offerings like in-house player prop bets and broader progressive parlays. Despite its strong performance, DraftKings is facing challenges from rising marketing and promotional costs, which could impact short-term profitability.
The GST Council will meet today, September 9, to discuss crucial issues including the taxation of insurance premiums, rate rationalization, and a status report on online gaming revenues. Key topics include potential GST reductions on health and life insurance premiums, a review of the ongoing crackdown on fake GST registrations, and the effectiveness of the 28% GST levied on online gaming platforms.
The 53rd Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council meeting, chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, is scheduled for Saturday. The meeting will discuss crucial topics like GST rates on fertilizers, online gaming, and telecom, along with potential amendments to the GST law regarding Extra Neutral Alcohol and corporate guarantees.
AI and GenAI are proving to be catalysts for digital transformation across a wide range of industries in India, from finance to manufacturing and pharmaceuticals. Executives from various sectors shared their experiences with AI and GenAI at the recent Mint Digital Innovation Summit, highlighting the benefits they’ve seen in areas such as workflow automation, robust decision-making, drug safety, cost reduction, and innovative product design.
The consumer affairs ministry has taken action against indirect and surrogate advertisements promoting illegal betting and gambling, especially during cricket matches and election campaigns. The ministry has identified violators and is imposing penalties, including banning the operations of betting and gambling apps. Online gaming falls under the purview of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, which will review compliance issues with gaming apps and prepare a list of violators. The ministry is also supporting a study by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences to understand the risks associated with online gaming and frame guidelines for protecting consumers.
Prime Minister Modi’s aspirations to transform India into a global gaming hub have gained momentum with his recent interactions with leading gamers. The discussions explored the industry’s trajectory, challenges, and the need for a clear distinction between skill-based gaming and gambling. The industry’s rapid growth, fueled by India’s IT prowess, holds immense potential for job creation and economic development. Despite challenges in self-regulation and taxation, the government’s efforts to address these issues and tap into India’s cultural heritage position the country to emerge as a prominent global gaming hub.
Deepu Ojha, a car mechanic from Bihar, has become an unlikely rags-to-riches story after winning a staggering 1.5 crore rupees (approximately $192,000) playing fantasy cricket on the Dream11 app. Despite having little knowledge of the game, Ojha’s lucky selection of Andre Russell as his captain earned him the top prize. This win highlights the potential for anyone to strike it rich through online gaming, even without formal education or expertise.
