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Shakira Announces First Run Of Dates On ‘Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran’ World Tour

On the heels of her chart-topping new album, GRAMMY®, and Latin GRAMMY® Award-winning artist Shakira has just announced the first string dates on her highly anticipated world tour, “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour,” promoted by Live Nation, with 14 arena shows across North America kicking off this fall. The tour’s first leg will start on November 2 in Palm Desert, CA, and includes stops in Los Angeles, Miami, Toronto, Brooklyn, Chicago and more. See below for full tour routing. Known for her dynamic and high-energy performances, Shakira will bring tracks from her new album and her legendary catalog of hits to life on stage.

Shakira first hinted at the tour during her appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon last month. On Friday, the global superstar surprised fans at Coachella when she appeared during Bizarrap’s set to perform their global smash hit “Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53” and “La Fuerte,” both featured on her new album. Before exiting the stage, Shakira teased the tour news to a roaring crowd.

Coachella marks the second time in the last month that Shakira has surprised fans with a showstopping performance. Last month, following the album release, Shakira shut down New York City’s Times Square giving a crowd of 40,000+ fans a peek into the energy of her live shows when she performed at the TSX Stage. The performance included her iconic hits like “Hips Don’t Lie,” “Te Felicito/TQG,” and “Session 53,” as well as “Puntería” and “Cómo Dónde y Cuándo” from her new album.

The tour is in support of her new album, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran, which in 24 hours of its release became the most streamed album of the year with over 10 billion, and was certified 7x platinum. The album debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Latin Album and Latin Pop Album Charts, while “Puntería” with Cardi B holds the #1 spot on both the Billboard Latin Airplay and Latin Pop Airplay charts. Listen to the album HERE!

This is Shakira’s first tour since 2018, when she wowed fans at sold out stadiums and arenas around the planet with the El Dorado World Tour, cementing her reputation as “an international pop goddess” (Rolling Stone).

Shakira is a Colombian singer-songwriter and multi-GRAMMY® award winner. She has sold over 95 million records worldwide and has won numerous awards including three GRAMMYs®, twelve Latin GRAMMYs®, and multiple World Music Awards, American Music Awards and Billboard Music Awards, to name a few. She is the most-viewed female Latin artist, and one of the top-10 artists of all time on YouTube with over 27 billion cumulative views, and the most-streamed female Latin artist of all time on Spotify.

Most recently, Shakira released her twelfth studio album, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran to rave reviews. The album is a dazzling testament to her resilience and strength, as well as music’s power to transform the most trying experiences into precious moments. In the first 24 hours it was released, the album became the most streamed album 2024 and was certified 7x Platinum.

Shakira’s previous album El Dorado ranked #1 on iTunes in 37 Countries, won Best Pop Vocal Album at the 2017 Latin GRAMMY® Awards, and Best Latin Pop Album at the 2018 GRAMMY® Awards. With over 12 billion streams, it is one of the most-streamed female albums of all time. In 24 hours, “SHAKIRA || BZRP Music Sessions #53” made history both on Spotify with over 14 million streams and on YouTube with over 52 million views. The song debuted at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and is another historic moment for Shakira as she is the first solo woman to debut in the Top 10 on the chart with a song recorded in Spanish. It is also the Spanish language song with the most streams in a single day in Spotify history. In September, Shakira received the MTV Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the MTV Video Music Awards and in honor of her award put on a breathtaking performance of her greatest hits.

Less than a week after releasing her critically acclaimed new album, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran, Shakira surprised a crowd of over 40,000 people, the largest audience for a performance in Times Square, with a mesmerizing performance at the TSX Stage.

Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour Routing
Sat Nov 02 – Palm Desert, CA – Acrisure Arena
Thu Nov 07 – Phoenix, AZ – Footprint Center
Sat Nov 09 – Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum
Sat Nov 16 – San Antonio, TX – Frost Bank Center
Sun Nov 17 – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center
Wed Nov 20 – Miami, FL – Kaseya Center
Sat Nov 23 – Charlotte, NC – Spectrum Center
Mon Nov 25 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena
Sat Nov 30 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
Thu Dec 05 – Brooklyn, NY – Barclays Center
Sun Dec 08 – Boston, MA – TD Garden
Tue Dec 10 – Montreal, QC – Bell Centre
Sat Dec 14 – Chicago, IL – United Center
Sun Dec 15 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena

Matisse Announces ‘Bella Nostalgia’ World Tour

Matisse, the acclaimed pop music group, has just announced their first WORLD TOUR named “Bella Nostalgia,” commemorating a decade of musical inspiration. This tour marks a milestone in the pop group’s career as they continue to captivate new audiences around the world with their unique style and passion for music.

The tour kicks off its US leg on June 15th in El Paso, Texas. This portion of the tour is produced by Live Nation and will also visit New York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, before wrapping up in Sacramento on September 17th.

The band, formed by Melissa Robles, Román Torres, and Pablo Preciado, will visit a total of 50 cities across the United States, Europe, and Latin America. Their fans will have the opportunity to relive the most iconic moments of their careers, such as the hit “Como Lo Hice Yo,” winner of the Latin Grammy Award 2022 for Best Regional-Mexican Song, which marked a turning point in their musical trajectory and helped position them internationally.

Since its beginnings, Matisse has left a unique mark on the music industry with their contagious melodies, emotional lyrics, and energy on stage. With big hits such as “La Misma Luna,” “Todavía,” and “Acuérdate de Mí,” they have conquered the hearts of millions of fans around the world.

On April 4th, Matisse released their latest single “Luis Miguel,” returning to the pop genre from which they originated, after their successful stint in the regional music genre, marking a new era in their career. “Luis Miguel” is a sentimental and rhythmic ballad in which their voices utilize new sounds with a certain nostalgia for the emblematic pop of the 80s and 90s.

This year, Matisse is celebrating 10 years of a music career and has prepared a show dedicated to love and heartbreak, making a musical journey through their pop and regional Mexican hits. The world tour kicks off in Mexico City on May 17th at the third edition of the Tecate Emblema Festival at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. Don’t miss the opportunity to join the celebration of a decade of passion and musical talent with Melissa, Román, and Pablo.

“We are very excited to start this great tour and to come back to the origin. We have plenty of surprises for this year, such as the return to Auditorio Nacional. We are certain that this tour will be unforgettable and will conquer more hearts all over the world,” said Matisse.

Matisse is a pop music group formed by Melissa Robles, Pablo Preciado and Roman Torres in August 2014. With a career spanning 10 years, they have captivated audiences around the world with their emotive music and distinctive style. Recognized for hits such as “La Misma Luna” and “Todavía”, Matisse continues to leave a mark in the music industry with their latest production, “Bella Nostalgia”.

BELLA NOSTALGIA US TOUR DATES:
Sat Jun 15 El Paso, TX Plaza Theatre
Sun Jun 16 Austin, TX Emo’s
Tue Jun 18 Houston, TX House of Blues
Wed Jun 19 Dallas, TX House of Blues
Sat Jun 22 McAllen, TX McAllen Performing Arts Center
Sun Jun 23 San Antonio, TX The Aztec Theater
Tue Jun 25 Chicago, IL House of Blues
Fri Jun 28 New York, NY Irving Plaza
Sun Jun 30 Charlotte, NC The Fillmore Charlotte
Wed Sep 11 Phoenix, AZ The Van Buren
Fri Sep 13 El Cajon, CA The Magnolia
Sat Sep 14 Las Vegas, NV House of Blues
Sun Sep 15 Los Angeles, CA Belasco
Tue Sep 17 Sacramento, CA Ace of Spades

That Time Coca Cola Marketed OK Soda To The Alt.Rock Crowd In 1994

In 1994, Coca-Cola launched OK Soda, a beverage specifically targeted at the post-modern and alternative youth culture of the early ’90s. The marketing campaign for OK Soda was unlike anything seen before from a major corporation. It was characterized by its ironic, self-referential advertising that deliberately avoided the typical feel-good messaging associated with soda commercials. The commercials featured surreal and often cynical narratives, reflecting the disillusionment and skepticism of the target demographic. The branding included slogans like “Everything is going to be OK” and “What’s the point of OK? Well, what’s the point of anything?” which resonated with the era’s grunge and Generation X sensibilities.

Peter Falk, John Cassavetes, Ben Gazzara, Charo, Adrienne Barbeau, Marty Allen At The Easter Seals Telethon In 1972

The 1972 Easter Seals Telethon featured a remarkable lineup of celebrities, including Peter Falk, John Cassavetes, Ben Gazzara, Charo, Adrienne Barbeau, and Marty Allen. This event, aimed at raising funds for the Easter Seals charity, which supports individuals with disabilities, brought together a diverse group of stars from television, film, and music. Peter Falk, known for his role as Columbo, brought his distinctive charm to the stage, while his frequent collaborator, John Cassavetes, added a touch of artistic credibility and intensity. Ben Gazzara, another member of the Cassavetes circle, lent his suave and commanding presence to the event.

3 Hours Of Footage From New Jersey’s Public Access Anti-TV At The Warped Tour In 1997

The three-hour footage from New Jersey’s public access show “Anti-TV” at the Warped Tour in 1997 captures a raw and unfiltered look at one of the most iconic music festivals of the late ’90s. “Anti-TV” was known for its unconventional and often gritty approach to broadcasting, focusing on subcultures and alternative lifestyles. The Warped Tour, with its mix of punk rock, ska, and extreme sports, was a perfect fit for the show’s ethos. This extensive footage provides an immersive experience, featuring interviews with bands, live performances, and candid moments with festival-goers. Highlights include up-close performances from bands like Blink-182, No Doubt, and The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, along with behind-the-scenes interactions that reveal the vibrant and chaotic energy of the tour

Behind-The-Scenes Footage Of The Spider-Man TV Series From 1978

The behind-the-scenes footage of the 1978 “Spider-Man” TV series provides a fascinating glimpse into the production of one of the earliest live-action adaptations of the beloved Marvel superhero. Starring Nicholas Hammond as Peter Parker/Spider-Man, the series combined practical effects, stunt work, and early special effects technology to bring the web-slinger to life on the small screen.

Watch Bob Geldof And More Perform on May 11, 1980 Edition Of Australia’s “Countdown” Show

The May 11, 1980 edition of Australia’s iconic music television program “Countdown” was a memorable episode that showcased the vibrant and eclectic music scene of the time, including Bob Geldof of The Boomtown Rats. “Countdown,” which aired on the ABC network, was renowned for its influential role in promoting new music and artists, both Australian and international. This particular episode featured performances and music videos from a diverse array of artists, reflecting the dynamic trends of the early ’80s. The show, hosted by the charismatic Molly Meldrum, included interviews and behind-the-scenes glimpses that added depth and personality to the music, making it a beloved staple for viewers. The May 11 episode exemplified the show’s unique blend of entertainment, music promotion, and cultural commentary, solidifying “Countdown’s” legacy in Australian pop culture.

Rhythms of the Cards: Jazz, Blues, and Other Musical Genres Inspired by Casino Culture

By Mitch Rice

In the world of casinos, music isn’t just background noise; it’s an essential part of the experience. Walk into any bustling casino, and you’ll feel the pulse of the place, driven by the rhythms of jazz, blues, and other genres. Jazz has this magical ability to capture the excitement and spontaneity of the casino floor, making it the perfect soundtrack for a night of gaming and fun. Blues, with its soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, speaks to players’ emotions, echoing the highs and lows of their gambling adventures. And let’s not forget about other genres like rock and pop, adding their own flair to the mix and catering to a diverse audience. This article dives into the fascinating relationship between music and casino culture, focusing on how jazz, blues, and other musical styles influenced by casinos enrich the overall experience. It’s not just about the games; it’s about the atmosphere, the energy, and the memories created through music in these vibrant entertainment hubs.

Echoes of the past: The vibrant history of casino music

The roots of casino music run deep, reaching back to the lively nightlife of the early 20th century, particularly in the 1920s and 1930s. During this era, jazz bands found their groove in the bustling casinos, captivating audiences with their dynamic performances. These bands weren’t just background noise; they were an integral part of the entire casino experience, adding an extra layer of excitement to the gaming atmosphere. With their improvisational style and infectious rhythms, jazz bands created a vibrant energy that perfectly complemented the thrill of the casino floor. These musicians weren’t just performers; they were masters of their craft, captivating audiences and enhancing the overall quality of entertainment. 

As time passed, the musical landscape of reliable casinos with 5 dollar deposits evolved, but the influence of jazz and other early genres remained a defining feature. Today, live music still holds a special place in the heart of casinos, with performers spanning a diverse range of styles to cater to every taste. Whether it’s the soulful melodies of blues or the contemporary beats of pop, the legacy of casino music continues to thrive, providing a timeless soundtrack to the exhilaration and glamour of gambling.

Blues: Expressions of luck and loss

Blues music paints a vivid picture of the ups and downs that come with gambling. It’s like a musical journey through the highs of winning and the lows of losing. Think of classics like “The House of the Rising Sun” or “Blackjack”—they capture the essence of taking risks and chasing luck in a casino. Blues musicians have this knack for telling stories that hit close to home for gamblers. Their songs are like snapshots of the excitement and despair that come with each roll of the dice or flip of a card. You can feel the emotion in every note as if they’ve lived through those moments themselves. And it’s no wonder—many blues artists draw inspiration from the gritty reality of the casino floor. They bring that raw energy and passion into their music, making it feel authentic and relatable. Whether you’re riding a winning streak or hitting a rough patch, blues music is there to capture the essence of the gambling experience. It’s like having a soundtrack for every twist and turn of your journey through the casino.

Pop and rock: Incorporating casino imagery

Pop and rock music have always had this fascination with the glitz and glamour of casinos and gambling. It’s like they’re tapping into this whole world of risk, luck, and indulgence that just screams excitement. You’ve got these classic tunes like “Viva Las Vegas” by Elvis and “Luck Be a Lady” by Sinatra that really capture the thrill of hitting the casino floor. But it’s not just the classics; even modern hits like Lady Gaga’s “Poker Face” and Maroon 5’s “Lucky Strike” dive into the allure of games of chance, using casino imagery to convey this sense of temptation and desire that’s so captivating.

And it’s not just in the music; pop and rock artists love bringing the casino vibe to life in their music videos and album covers too. Just look at Katy Perry’s “Waking Up in Vegas” or Rihanna’s “Russian Roulette”—they’re like mini-movies set in these lavish casino settings, with all the flashing lights and high-stakes drama you’d expect. Even album covers get in on the action, with bands like The Killers and Arctic Monkeys using casino-inspired imagery to create these visually stunning artworks that really grab your attention.

Overall, it’s this whole package deal—from the lyrics to the visuals—that makes pop and rock music such a perfect fit for the casino scene. It’s like they’re taking you on this wild ride through the world of gambling, where every spin of the roulette wheel or flip of a card is packed with excitement and anticipation. And whether you’re listening to the classics or the latest hits, there’s just something about casino imagery in pop and rock music that keeps you coming back for more.

Musical legends and casino residencies

Musical legends have graced famous casino venues with long-term residencies, leaving a lasting impact on both the artists’ careers and the casino culture. Here’s a comprehensive list of renowned musicians who have had notable residencies:

  • Elvis Presley: The “King of Rock and Roll” revitalized his career with a residency at the International Hotel in Las Vegas during the late 1960s and early 1970s.
  • Frank Sinatra: Sinatra‘s performances at the Sands and Caesars Palace defined the classic Vegas lounge era, attracting A-list celebrities and elevating the city’s entertainment status.
  • Celine Dion: With a record-breaking residency at Caesars Palace, Dion captivated audiences with her powerhouse vocals and international appeal.
  • Elton John: John’s residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace showcased his timeless hits and extravagant stage productions, becoming one of the most successful residencies in Las Vegas history.
  • Cher: Cher’s residency at the Park Theater at Park MGM brought her iconic style and chart-topping hits to the Las Vegas Strip, captivating audiences with her electrifying performances.

These residencies transformed the casino culture, bringing sophistication and star power to the gaming world. Memorable performances and collaborations emerged, setting the stage for unforgettable entertainment experiences. 

To sum up

In wrapping up, the blend of music and casino culture has birthed a rich tapestry of genres, each echoing the thrill and unpredictability of the gambling world. From the smooth rhythms of jazz to the heartfelt tunes of blues and from the catchy beats of pop to the raw energy of rock, musicians have found inspiration in the vibrant ambiance of casinos, creating timeless melodies and unforgettable performances. Music has truly become the heartbeat of the casino experience, infusing every moment with an electric energy that draws patrons into a world of entertainment and excitement.

As we gaze into the future, the possibilities for music in the gambling scene seem boundless. With technology advancing, we might witness even more immersive experiences like virtual reality concerts and tailor-made soundtracks that enhance the gaming thrill. And as tastes evolve, we can anticipate a continued exploration of diverse musical styles, ensuring there’s something for every casino-goer.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

Childish Gambino Announces ‘The New World Tour’

Donald Glover, better known as Childish Gambino, has unveiled plans for a global tour spanning North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.

In addition to the tour announcement, Gambino surprised fans with the release of “Atavista,” a reimagined version of his 2020 album “3.15.20,” boasting two fresh tracks: “Atavista” and “Human Sacrifice.”

‘The New World Tour’ North America 2024 dates
Sun Aug 11 – Oklahoma City, OK – Paycom Center *
Mon Aug 12 – Kansas City, MO – T-Mobile Center *
Wed Aug 14 – Milwaukee, WI – Fiserv Forum *
Thu Aug 15 – Columbus, OH – Schottenstein Center *
Sat Aug 17 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena *
Sun Aug 18 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena *
Tue Aug 20 – Pittsburgh, PA – PPG Paints Arena *
Wed Aug 21 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center *
Fri Aug 23 – Boston, MA – TD Garden *
Sat Aug 24 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena *
Mon Aug 26 – Brooklyn, NY – Barclays Center *
Tue Aug 27 – Brooklyn, NY – Barclays Center *
Thu Aug 29 – Washington, D.C. – Capital One Arena *
Fri Aug 30 – Raleigh, NC – PNC Arena *
Sun Sep 1 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena *
Mon Sep 2 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena *
Wed Sep 4 – Tampa, FL – Amalie Arena *
Thu Sep 5 – Sunrise, FL – Amerant Bank Arena *
Sat Sep 7 – New Orleans, LA – Smoothie King Center *
Sun Sep 8 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center *
Tue Sep 10 – Austin, TX – Moody Center *
Wed Sep 11 – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center *
Fri Sep 13 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena *
Sat Sep 14 – Salt Lake City, UT – Delta Center *
Mon Sep 16 – Phoenix, AZ – Footprint Center *
Wed Sep 18 – Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena *
Thu Sep 19 – Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena *
Sat Sep 21 – San Francisco, CA – Chase Center *
Mon Sep 23 – Vancouver, BC – Rogers Arena *
Tue Sep 24 – Portland, OR – Moda Center *
Wed Sep 25 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena *
Fri Sep 27 – Calgary, AB – Scotiabank Saddledome *
Sun Sep 29 – Edmonton, AB – Rogers Place *
Wed Oct 2 – St. Paul, MN – Xcel Energy Center *
Thu Oct 3 – Chicago, IL – United Center *
‘The New World Tour’ Europe/UK 2024 dates
Thu, Oct 31 – Lyon, FR – LDLC Arena #
Sat, Nov 2 – Milan, IT – Unipol Forum #
Mon, Nov 4 – Cologne, DE – Lanxess Arena #
Wed, Nov 6 – Hamburg, DE – Barclays Arena #
Fri, Nov 8 – Oslo, NO – Oslo Spektrum #
Sun, Nov 10 – Copenhagen, DK – Royal Arena #
Tue, Nov 12 – Prague, CZ – O2 arena #
Wed, Nov 13 – Berlin, DE – Uber Arena #
Tue, Nov 19 – Paris, FR – Accor Arena #
Thu, Nov 21 – Munich, DE – Olympiahalle #
Sat, Nov 23 – Brussels, BE – ING Arena #
Sun, Nov 24 – Amsterdam, NL – Ziggo Dome #
Tue, Nov 26 – Manchester, UK – AO Arena #
Thu, Nov 28 – Glasgow, UK – OVO Hydro #
Sat, Nov 30 – London, UK – The O2 #
Sun, Dec 1 – London, UK – The O2 #
Tue, Dec 3 – Birmingham, UK – Utilita Arena #
Thu, Dec 5 – Dublin, IE – 3Arena #
‘The New Worl Tour’ Australia 2025 dates
Tue, Jan 28 – Auckland, NZ –Spark Arena #
Sat, Feb 1 – Brisbane, QLD – Brisbane Entertainment Centre #
Tue, Feb 4 – Sydney, NSW – Qudos Bank Arena #
Wed, Feb 7 – Melbourne, VIC – Rod Laver Arena #
Sat, Feb 11 – Perth, WA– RAC Arena #
Support key
* with WILLOW
# With Aamarae

Online Casino UX Continues to Evolve, Partly Fuelled by AI

By Mitch Rice

The landscape of online casinos is constantly changing and evolving. This transformation is being driven by technological advancements and shifting user demands. One significant force behind this evolution is Artificial Intelligence (AI), which is revolutionising the user experience (UX) in ways previously unimaginable

Understanding User Behaviour

AI algorithms are sophisticated enough to analyse large amounts of data to understand player behaviour patterns. By tracking interactions, preferences, and gaming habits, AI can create personalised experiences for each user. Whether it’s suggesting games based on past choices or offering targeted promotions on other free spins casinos, AI enhances engagement and satisfaction.

Enhanced Customer Support

Gone are the days of frustrating wait times and generic responses. AI-powered chatbots are becoming more and more common in online casinos, providing instant assistance 24/7. These bots can handle a wide range of inquiries, from account issues to gameplay guidance, delivering prompt and accurate solutions. By resolving queries swiftly, AI-driven support increases the overall UX, promoting trust and loyalty among players.

Dynamic Content Adaptation

With AI, online casinos can dynamically adapt content in real-time to suit individual preferences. From website layout to game recommendations, every aspect can be customised based on user data. This level of personalisation creates a seamless and immersive environment, keeping players engaged for longer durations.

Preventing Problem Gambling

Responsible gambling should be a paramount concern for online casino operators. AI algorithms can detect signs of problematic behaviour, such as excessive spending or erratic betting patterns, and can intervene proactively. By flagging at-risk players and offering support resources, AI promotes a safer gaming environment for all users.

Fraud Detection and Security

In the digital world, security is non-negotiable. AI plays a crucial role in detecting and preventing fraudulent activities, such as identity theft and payment fraud. By analysing transactional data and user behaviour, AI algorithms can identify suspicious patterns and mitigate risks in real-time, safeguarding both players and operators.

Predictive Analytics

AI-powered predictive analytics enable online casinos to anticipate player needs and trends, enabling proactive decision-making. From forecasting demand for specific games to optimising marketing campaigns, AI-driven insights empower operators to stay ahead of the curve. By leveraging data-driven strategies, casinos can deliver targeted offers and promotions, enhancing user satisfaction and retention.

The Road Ahead

As technology continues to evolve, the possibilities for enhancing online casino UX are limitless. AI-driven innovations will continue to reshape the gaming landscape, offering unparalleled personalisation, security, and engagement. By embracing these advancements, online casinos can stay competitive in an ever-changing market, ensuring memorable experiences for players worldwide.

So, in conclusion, it is evident that the evolution of online casino UX is closely linked to the advancements in AI technology. From personalised experiences to enhanced security measures, AI is revolutionising every aspect of the online gaming industry. As we look towards the future, one thing is certain – AI will continue to drive innovation and shape the future of online casinos, ultimately redefining the way players engage with digital gambling platforms.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.