Author: Josh Andrews

As an avid follower of the crypto world from the beginning since early 2010, Josh has experienced and covered every drop, turn and rise of Bitcoin from the first halving to the countless attempts of regulation. Over the years Josh has developed a keen interest in the different applications and uses of Bitcoin and its current movement within the gambling industry. It's safe to say very few can match Josh's passion for the growth and development of Bitcoin.

Crypto Meets Combat Sports: Cloudbet Partners with Karate Combat to Revolutionize Betting

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In a move that is set to blur the lines between cutting-edge technology and high-octane sports entertainment, Cloudbet, the world’s longest-running crypto casino and sportsbook, has announced an exclusive partnership with Karate Combat. This collaboration designates Cloudbet as the “Official Online Casino and Sportsbook” of the martial arts league, introducing crypto betting as a core feature of Karate Combat’s digital ecosystem starting in 2025.

The partnership officially kicks off on January 24th at KC52, featuring a showdown between reigning Lightweight Champion Shahzaib Rind and former titleholder Edgars Skrivers. Fans can live-stream every Karate Combat event for free on Cloudbet.com, with integrated betting options for a seamless watch-and-bet experience.

What to Expect

Karate Combat, known for its immersive CGI environments and commitment to Web3 innovation, has always aimed to push the boundaries of fan engagement. This collaboration with Cloudbet aligns perfectly with its vision. The two organizations will integrate live betting odds, bespoke content, and real-time stat tracking into broadcasts, offering fans enhanced and interactive entertainment.

Cloudbet’s platform supports over 40 cryptocurrencies, including BTC, USDC, and HBAR, the latter powering Karate Combat’s $KARATE token. This token plays a central role in the league’s Web3 ecosystem, enabling fans to vote on matchups, participate in prize pools, and access exclusive content via the Karate Combat app.

Karate Combat’s unique position as “Web3’s First Sport” makes it a natural partner for Cloudbet, a pioneer in crypto gaming since 2013. With a roster featuring Olympic medalists and top fighters from disciplines like MMA, Muay Thai, and kickboxing, Karate Combat is broadcast in over 120 countries and streamed live without paywalls, setting a new benchmark for accessibility and engagement.

Both brands aim to establish themselves as leaders at the intersection of sports, technology, and cryptocurrency, which are dynamic and fast-growing sectors. Fans can also look forward to the rollout of more new features, including $KARATE token betting and real-time odds, further enhancing their connection to the action.

Setting The Standard for the Future of Crypto Sports Betting

Beyond betting, this partnership aims to deepen fan interaction through exclusive features. Cloudbet’s VIPs will enjoy branded seating and hospitality at events, while branded fighter standings and pre-show analysis ensure premium visibility for the casino. Pete Vesey, Karate Combat’s Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized that this collaboration goes beyond traditional sponsorships, aiming to “redefine combat sports entertainment.”

This will not only provide fans with instant access to odds but will also enable betting directly within the broadcasts. Cloudbet’s CEO highlighted how crypto-based betting aligns with the ethos of innovation that Karate Combat champions, marking a new chapter for both industries.

Exploring Some of 2025’s Top Betting Markets on Polymarket

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As the world ushers in the new year, Polymarket has once again positioned itself as the premier hub for bettors eager to explore 2025’s most compelling narratives. Its diverse prediction markets are all geared up to remain a key venue for strategic thinkers, casual bettors, and seasoned players alike, making it a cornerstone of both speculation and foresight in our rapidly changing world.

Sports Betting Is Still King

Unsurprisingly, sports betting has firmly established itself as the crown jewel of Polymarket’s offerings for 2025, capturing the lion’s share of activity. The NFL Draft leads with $465,998 in wagers as bettors scrutinize quarterback prospects and scouting developments. Meanwhile, the Champions League market has surged to $699.4 million in bets, with British clubs like Liverpool (18%), Arsenal (14%), and Manchester City (10%) dominating predictions.

In the NBA, the Boston Celtics hold a commanding 26% chance of clinching the championship, with the Eastern Conference title market heavily favoring them at 46%. Soccer markets continue to thrive, with Liverpool positioned as a 71% favorite to win the Premier League, far ahead of Arsenal’s 13%.

Modest Engagement Expected for Financial and Cryptocurrency Markets

Despite their traditionally high stakes, financial and cryptocurrency contracts have seen quieter activity compared to the bustling sports markets. Federal Reserve policy remains a hot topic, with a 29% chance assigned to two rate cuts in 2025 and a 15% probability of a rate hike. Such predictions underscore the uncertainty surrounding monetary policy as markets navigate the potential shifts of a new administration.

Bitcoin, a perennial favorite in the prediction market, reflects moderate optimism. Traders peg the cryptocurrency’s price at $120,000 by year-end with a 70% probability, while its odds of sliding to $70,000 stand at 55%. With Bitcoin starting the year near $94,000, the market anticipates continued volatility but remains bullish on its upward trajectory.

Corporate prediction markets highlight Apple’s 36% likelihood of retaining its position as the world’s largest company by market capitalization, followed closely by NVIDIA at 26%. Stablecoin discussions are less pronounced, with Tether’s value-shift probability sitting at 16%, reflecting niche but significant interest in cryptocurrency stability.

Increased Interest in Geopolitical Shifts

In the geopolitical sphere, Polymarket’s contracts are capturing attention with their focus on global leadership and potential flashpoints. A ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine conflict carries a notable 71% probability, reflecting cautious optimism among traders. Meanwhile, leadership transitions in Iran and Israel see probabilities of 44% and 27%, respectively, as bettors weigh regional dynamics.

Notably, a chilling 22% probability has been assigned to the detonation of a nuclear weapon, whether through testing, offensive action, or accident, highlighting the gravity of global security concerns. Contracts like these offer a stark reminder of the interconnected nature of geopolitical events and their potential ripple effects on markets and policies.

All in all, 2025 will certainly look very interesting for bettors considering such a start.

Crypto.com Combines Sports and Blockchain with New Innovations for US Players

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As 2025 approaches, Crypto.com is gearing up to redefine the online betting experience for sports enthusiasts and crypto users alike. With the launch of its sports prediction market in the U.S., the platform combines digital assets and real-world sports outcomes, offering users a forward-looking way to engage with their favorite games. This new feature allows customers to wager on major sporting events like the Super Bowl using supported cryptocurrencies, including Crypto.com’s native Cronos token, through its app.

Set to go live alongside one of the year’s most iconic events, the Super Bowl, the sports prediction market builds on Crypto.com’s established reputation for innovation and trustworthiness in both the cryptocurrency and sports industries. The platform’s seamless integration with its app, fast transactions, and privacy-forward design make it a compelling choice for those looking to explore blockchain-powered betting.

Expanding the Crypto Frontier

Crypto.com’s ambitions for 2025 extend beyond sports betting. The platform recently announced the launch of Crypto.com Custody Trust Company, an institutional cryptocurrency custody service designed for U.S. and Canadian markets. This newly chartered trust provides secure storage solutions for institutions and high-net-worth individuals, reinforcing the platform’s growing presence in North America.

In a statement, CEO Kris Marszalek highlighted this development as a significant milestone, reflecting Crypto.com’s confidence in the North American market. The service is part of a broader plan to establish Crypto.com as a key player in the two active and influential crypto markets of the U.S. and Canada. Over the coming weeks, digital assets held by Crypto.com’s U.S. and Canadian customers will migrate to the new custody platform, offering enhanced security and trust.

A Keen Eye for Growth

These initiatives align with the surging demand for crypto-integrated services. In 2024, sports betting in the U.S. reached $14.3 billion in revenue, showcasing the rapid growth of the market. Yet, crypto-based betting remains a relatively untapped opportunity. Crypto.com’s prediction market addresses this gap, leveraging its extensive sports partnerships with leagues like Formula 1, UFC, and the NBA to attract a dedicated user base.

Simultaneously, the launch of Crypto.com Custody Trust Company positions the exchange as a leader in institutional crypto services, offering robust infrastructure for asset custody while advancing its expansion roadmap.

Cambodia Tightens Crypto Laws in New Regulatory Effort

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Cambodia has ramped up its regulatory efforts in the cryptocurrency market, targeting major players like Binance, Coinbase, and OKX. The Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia (TRC) recently restricted access to 16 prominent crypto exchanges, signaling a stronger push to bring the digital assets sector under control.

Under the directive signed by acting TRC chairman Srun Kimsann, 102 domains were blocked, most of which were tied to online gambling platforms. The affected exchanges were flagged for operating without licenses from Cambodia’s Securities and Exchange Regulator (SERC). While desktop access to these platforms has been restricted, many users have continued to access them via mobile apps, highlighting potential enforcement gaps.

The restrictions on unlicensed crypto platforms reflect Cambodia’s intention to establish a more regulated framework for digital assets. The lack of operational licenses remains a critical issue despite previous partnerships, such as a 2022 memorandum of understanding between Binance and SERC to support crypto regulation.

Currently, only two operators are licensed under SERC’s FinTech Regulatory Sandbox, allowing them to trade digital assets but prohibiting the conversion of cryptocurrencies into fiat currencies like the Cambodian riel or the US dollar. This regulatory gap contrasts with Cambodia’s significant retail crypto adoption.

The relationship between cryptocurrency and illicit activities has further fueled Cambodia’s regulatory actions. The UN Office of Drugs and Crime previously linked crypto to the country’s dark-web transactions and money laundering schemes. Similarly, over the past three years, nearly $50 billion in crypto transactions were facilitated through Huione Guarantee, a popular marketplace in the country.

The Implications

These challenges demonstrate the country’s intent to balance the potential of digital assets with the need for effective oversight. However, the continued accessibility of banned exchanges through mobile apps has raised questions about the actual impact of these restrictions.

Now, the tightened regulations could have a ripple effect on casinos and online gambling platforms, which have increasingly relied on cryptocurrencies for smooth, secure transactions. The restrictions may force operators targeting Cambodian users to adapt their strategies.

Stricter controls could enhance trust in the market, but overly restrictive measures risk alienating legitimate operators in both the gaming and crypto sectors. As the global appetite for crypto-enabled gaming grows, Cambodia’s regulatory approach will likely serve as a case study for striking a balance between fostering innovation and ensuring compliance. For those in the casino industry, the evolving landscape serves as a reminder to stay ahead of regulatory changes to remain competitive in the fast-paced world of crypto-driven gaming.

 

New Bitcoin Reserve Proposal Signals U.S. Commitment to Digital Assets

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State legislators in the United States are preparing to investigate the possibility of a national “Strategic Bitcoin Reserve” in the wake of electoral victories to strengthen the country’s position in the dynamic digital economy. Supporters see this move, which is gaining traction under the new government, as a chance to diversify financial reserves and give Bitcoin a place among more conventional assets in strengthening national security. Now that politicians are consulting crypto specialists to figure out what to do, the idea has grown in popularity since Donald Trump announced his support for digital assets and Bitcoin during his campaign.

Reports indicate that lawmakers are increasingly seeking advice from prominent members of the crypto community, such as Dennis Porter, CEO of the Satoshi Act Fund. Porter confirmed that several state authorities are investigating the potential economic benefits of a Bitcoin reserve and urged Bitcoin advocates around the country to encourage their elected leaders to take action.

Moreover, according to Porter, more and more politicians are getting on board with the reserve plan every week, which shows that people from all political stripes are curious about the possible advantages of bitcoin.

A New Digital Era?

As part of his campaign pledge to position the United States as a global leader in cryptocurrency adoption, Donald Trump recently called for the establishment of a Bitcoin reserve. Trump, in his keynote address at the Bitcoin Conference in Nashville, emphasized the role that digital currency may play in increasing financial independence while outlining promises to make the American economy more resilient.

Another notable supporter of the idea is U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming. Senator Lummis has been an outspoken supporter of Bitcoin-friendly laws and views the idea of a reserve as an organic continuation of her efforts to back digital assets.

The United States government now has more Bitcoin on hand than any other country, with over 208,109 BTC. This amount was mostly amassed via asset seizures in the past. In contrast, China has 190,000 BTC, while the UK comes in at number three with around 61,245 BTC. If the incoming administration’s monetary policies go on as planned, analysts predict that the United States will become an even more influential player in the global digital economy and that Bitcoin will become an integral part of this framework.

Impacts on Bitcoin and Crypto Gambling

The crypto gambling business stands to gain a lot from a U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, which would boost Bitcoin’s credibility and make it more appealing to the gaming market. While crypto casinos would be subject to more stringent regulations, the public might have more faith in them. Still, operators have an opportunity to create unique prizes and transparent, provably fair gaming experiences under this initiative, which might attract new customers interested in Bitcoin-backed gambling.

Crypto Casinos Shifting to Offshore Havens as Australia Enforces New Gambling Ban

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In a world where digital currency adoption is rapidly expanding, the gambling sector is at the forefront of the shift – from decentralized finance to crypto casinos – digital currencies are disrupting industries. However Australia’s new regulatory stance on crypto gambling has sparked widespread debate.

Implemented on June 11, 2024, the Interactive Gambling Amendment Bill 2023 bans the use of cryptocurrencies and credit cards for online gambling on domestically licensed platforms. This move aims to address gambling addiction and ensure consumer protection, yet it sidesteps offshore crypto casinos, highlighting a regulatory gap that raises questions about the future of digital assets in Australia’s gaming sector.

“Our government takes seriously our responsibility to prevent and reduce harm from online wagering. Our ban on credit cards will help with this goal. You can’t use your credit card to place a bet for land-based gambling. Now the same rules apply for online gambling.” Australia’s minister for social services, Amanda Rishworth.

But is this guaranteed to work out as expected especially considering the developments happening in both the crypto and online gambling worlds?

The Implications

While the Interactive Gambling Amendment Bill 2023 restricts crypto and credit card payments on Australian-registered gambling sites, it leaves a loophole for offshore platforms, creating an interesting dynamic. Many offshore crypto casinos, regulated by entities like the Malta Gaming Authority, remain accessible to Australians without violating local laws since they are not directed specifically at Australian players.

For many crypto casino users in Australia, this means a continued avenue for digital betting, as offshore casinos often offer enhanced user experiences with a wider selection of games, increased bonuses, and secure, anonymous transactions.

Other jurisdictions, like Malta, have even already integrated cryptocurrency into their regulatory frameworks, reaping economic rewards while maintaining regulatory oversight.

Looking Ahead

As blockchain technology and digital currency continue to reshape the gaming sector, other nations are exploring frameworks that combine regulatory oversight with the potential of new technologies. Australia, however, risks falling behind if it does not adapt its approach to balancing consumer protection with the growth of digital assets.

Should the country consider regulatory reforms that embrace technological advancements, it stands to unlock significant economic benefits and position itself alongside leading crypto-friendly nations in the gaming industry. A future-facing approach could enable Australia to attract global players and investments, setting the stage for a dynamic, responsible crypto gaming landscape in the region.

EVO.io Gets $3M Boost from SABA Sports to Lead Crypto iGaming Revolution

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SABA Sports, a leading Asian sportsbook provider, has invested $3 million in cryptocurrency-focused online casino EVO.io. With this commitment, SABA Sports is demonstrating its confidence in the expanding junction of blockchain technology and the international iGaming sector. A statement from SABA Sports shared the company’s optimism about the potential of blockchain in the gaming space, saying there’s no doubt that crypto will be pivotal in iGaming’s evolution.

“While it currently facilitates seamless deposits and withdrawals, blockchain’s potential extends far beyond that. Think transparency in casino games, on-chain betting data, and more innovative applications,” he said.

Why It Is Special

Backed by the potential of a decentralized Web3 network, EVO.io is positioning itself as a next-gen gaming platform, transforming how players interact with the iGaming world. The platform, scheduled to officially launch in September 2024, is currently in beta testing and undergoing a branding overhaul to prepare for its entry into the market. But what does it bring to the table?

Well, EVO.io is not just your typical crypto casino. While offering a full suite of casino games and betting options with digital currencies, it aims to go beyond the conventional model by leveraging decentralization to empower its players.

SABA Sports believes EVO.io is on a mission to revolutionize the industry by giving users more control—whether they want to “be the house” or challenge it, create their own games, control their funds, or bring in friends for a truly immersive and transparent experience.

More on Web3 Gaming and the Future of iGaming

Already, Web3 gaming is creating a stir with play-to-earn models, the selling of metaverse land, and the emergence of gaming DAOs. Whether it’s via in-game NFT income or secondary market asset selling, players may now make money in virtual worlds. Web3 betting has a promising future ahead of it, as blockchain transactions will make up a significant amount of gaming activity in recent years.

One of the many advantages of Web3 gaming is the increased security it provides. Thanks to blockchain technology, in-game data and assets are less likely to be compromised. Players may soon be able to transfer skins, equipment, and characters based on NFTs from one game to another, thanks to impending interoperability.

On the other hand, broad adoption continues to face significant obstacles, such as regulatory issues and the need for blockchain solutions that are scalable, quick, and secure. While full-scale cross-platform integration remains a challenge, early efforts are underway, offering a glimpse of the future. But as more developers and publishers, such as Ubisoft, experiment with distributed ledger technology (DLT), Web3 gaming’s footprint is set to grow.

Iggy Azalea Takes on Crypto Gaming with Motherland Casino Launch

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Australian rapper and global sensation, Iggy Azalea, is taking the online gambling world by storm with the announcement of Motherland, her new crypto casino, set to debut in November 2024. Unveiled at the exclusive Solana Breakpoint event in Singapore, this casino venture is powered by Azalea’s memecoin, MOTHER, promising to bring a fresh, exciting twist to the iGaming scene.

Motherland will offer a comprehensive array of casino favorites, including slots, blackjack, roulette, and poker while featuring live dealer games, tournaments, sports betting, and other community-driven gambling activities. Whether you are a lover of high-stakes action or prefer community-based challenges, the site strives to cater to the interests of everyone who joins.

Strong Backing

Motherland’s adviser and creator of Asymmetric, a cryptocurrency hedge fund, Joe McCann, praised Azalea’s vision for the future. He emphasized that MOTHER is not like other celebrity-backed tokens, but rather an integral component of a larger and more deliberate plan to create a robust memecoin community and provide it practical use in the online gambling industry.

“We’re seeing something bigger here. Iggy’s vision goes beyond just creating a coin – she’s building a real-world application for her memecoin that integrates with a fully-fledged online casino,” McCann said, highlighting the depth and potential of the project. Additionally, he dropped hints about future, more extensive features for MOTHER holders, although details are still being kept under wraps.

Presently, MOTHER token users have exceptional privileges such as a 20% discount on entrance tickets to the American music festival Breakaway, where Azalea has collaborated with event organizers to provide fans with unique experiences. With this, we can see the ongoing trend of digital ecosystems prioritizing user value by combining entertainment with cryptocurrency.

The Motherland launch is just one more example of Azalea’s entrepreneurial spirit. She relaunched the cellular startup Unreal Mobile three months ago, offering MOTHER token holders mobile plans with reduced prices according to their tiers.

Navigating Challenges

Despite its ambitious scope, the MOTHER token has faced challenges, particularly in the competitive world of memecoins. Since its launch in May the token reached a peak valuation of $260 million within just 10 days but has since experienced a notable decline. Currently, the market capitalization stands at $56.6 million, according to Dexscreener data.

In response to claims that Solana is just a “memecoin casino” network, McCann emphasized that the platform’s flexibility and practical uses are shown by its wide range of blockchain projects, especially in the areas of decentralized finance (DeFi) and decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN).

Binance Coin Investors Eye 100X Gains with Mpeppe (MPEPE) Token

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Binance Coin (BNB) has long been a powerhouse in the crypto market, but even its most experienced holders are always on the lookout for the next breakthrough investment. Lately, a new gambling-focused token, Mpeppe (MPEPE), has been generating buzz among BNB investors. Promising up to 100X returns, Mpeppe is quickly gaining attention as a potential game-changer in the crypto-gambling space.

What’s driving this surge of interest? Mpeppe is capitalizing on the growing integration of cryptocurrencies into online gambling platforms, offering enhanced privacy, security, and efficiency. Its decentralized structure appeals to investors prioritizing cutting-edge solutions with high growth potential.

For Binance Coin holders, Mpeppe presents a strategic opportunity, especially given the token’s focus on blockchain technology. With blockchain at its core, Mpeppe guarantees transparency, traceability, and security in every transaction—key factors for building trust in crypto and gambling communities. As a result, BNB holders see Mpeppe as an investment that offers more than just high returns; it provides a secure and innovative way to participate in the rapidly expanding online gambling industry.

The Crypto Appeal

One of Mpeppe’s standout features is its commitment to privacy and decentralization. In an industry where privacy is paramount, Mpeppe’s framework ensures that users’ data and transactions are secure, and protected from potential breaches. This added layer of security makes the token especially attractive to Binance Coin investors looking for reliable, forward-thinking projects.

Another appeal lies in Mpeppe’s global accessibility. Unlike traditional banking systems that impose fees and restrictions on cross-border transactions, Mpeppe enables seamless, low-cost payments worldwide. This borderless currency structure opens up new opportunities, particularly for investors interested in the global market.

Taking on the Kings

The crypto gambling market has grown significantly, with heightened interest since 2021. Valued at $250 million, this segment still represents a small portion of the larger online gambling market, which surged from $37 billion before the pandemic to over $70 billion by 2024. The market is expected to reach $150 billion by 2030. Sports betting leads the way, accounting for 43% of online gambling revenue, while casino games make up 32%.

Bitcoin dominates crypto gambling, accounting for 73.3% of transactions in 2023, followed by Ethereum at 9.9%. Crypto gambling’s appeal lies in enhanced privacy, security, and faster transactions. However, it remains under-regulated in many countries. The typical crypto gambler is young, male, tech-savvy, and interested in speculative investments. Despite its growth, fiat currencies still dominate the broader online gambling industry. Altcoins like Mpeppe may now be changing the script all over again.

Whale.io Leading the Way for Crypto Casino Gaming on the TON Network

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Whale.io is creating quite a stir in the gaming business as the newest craze in online casinos and sportsbooks. This TON Network-based new platform is more than just another online casino as it is designed to provide customers with a dependable and thrilling location to play. Whether you want to play on the web or over Telegram, it has crypto gaming enthusiasts covered with top-tier games, smooth gameplay, and a focus on security and transparency.

Core Features

Game options at Whale.io’s crypto casino and sportsbook are extensive and varied, including everything from slots and roulette to blackjack and baccarat. Looking forward, Whale.io has grand ambitions to launch brand-new games that will provide players with exciting and novel experiences. Adding even more diversity to the platform, these new games want to push the limits of what is presently available in the crypto gaming sector.

And that is where the fun begins especially for crypto enthusiasts looking for hassle-free gaming.

Thanks to the platform’s support for a variety of payment methods, such as TON, NOT, USDT (ERC-20), mBTC, and cUSD, users are provided with the freedom to easily manage their cash. This diversity makes it easy for players to use their chosen cryptocurrency for both deposits and withdrawals, which improves the entire experience.

As if that was not enough, Whale.io is also offering Whale Coin, a cryptocurrency that will serve to both reward dedicated gamers and support the community. This new feature enhances the benefits for users, allowing them to gain even more from their engagement and loyalty to the platform.

Anyone interested in claiming $Whale tokens via the EARN program will find a quick and easy approach on Whale.io. Using a Telegram account, players may register at whale.io or @whale to get their exclusive referral code and link There is a daily update for both referral earnings and $Whale tokens; USDT earnings are accessible for daily claims, while $Whale tokens will be available later.

Investing in Gamers

One thing that makes Whale.io special is the way it compensates players. Rather than the usual welcome incentives, Whale.io has launched the #SometimesloseAlwaysWIN program, which provides cashback of up to 20% per day. Because players may still get some of their money back even when they lose, gambling is never really a drag. In addition to keeping players interested, this approach lessens the crushing feeling of defeat.

Along with cashback, Whale.io has a refer-a-friend program that pays out for life for both direct and indirect referrals. Players are encouraged to invite friends and benefit together via this unique initiative, helping to improve the entire gaming experience and developing a sense of community in the growing world of crypto gaming.