How GTO Analysis Tools Are Reshaping Business Strategy and Gaming

The world of data analytics and artificial intelligence is transforming how we approach decision-making across industries. Game Theory Optimal (GTO) tools, originally developed for gaming applications, are now revolutionizing business strategy, sports analytics, and competitive decision-making. These sophisticated analytical systems help organizations make mathematically optimal choices, turning intuitive processes into data-driven operations.

The evolution has been remarkable – from basic statistical analysis to advanced AI systems that can process millions of scenarios instantaneously. These tools are creating a new generation of analysts who combine traditional business acumen with cutting-edge mathematical precision. It’s a perfect blend of experience and innovation that’s reshaping how we approach complex decisions.

The rise of analytical gaming

GTO analysis represents the pinnacle of strategic decision-making – a methodology that’s theoretically unbeatable when properly implemented. Whether you’re looking to develop gaming strategies or corporate planning, these analytical principles can significantly improve outcomes. The implementation of GTO-based analysis consistently leads to better decision-making and improved strategic outcomes. These sophisticated approaches are becoming increasingly accessible through user-friendly training platforms.

Modern GTO tools incorporate sophisticated machine learning algorithms that can process vast databases of historical data to identify optimal strategies. These systems continuously learn and adapt, providing increasingly refined recommendations based on evolving patterns and trends. The integration of neural networks has particularly enhanced the ability to recognize subtle strategic opportunities that might be missed by traditional analytical methods. This technological advancement has created a new standard for strategic decision-making, where intuition is consistently validated against mathematical optimization.

Digital transformation in modern gaming

The impact of analytical tools extends far beyond gaming tables. Major corporations worldwide now incorporate GTO-style analysis in their strategic planning. These tools serve as round-the-clock strategic advisors, helping organizations identify and correct inefficiencies in their operations. With enterprise-grade AI solutions becoming more prevalent, businesses can receive real-time optimization suggestions. Cloud computing has democratized access to these powerful analytical capabilities.

You can experience these firsthand when you start playing at a bitcoin casino, an industry that has used these tools to great effect. They have used data on customers to provide everything from product recommendations, and GTO tools can now even be used to find fraudulent or even problematic gambling behavior. This has helped make the industry a lot safer and has been responsible for many countries changing their laws to allow online gambling operators to work in their country. 

Strategic implementation for success

Implementing GTO analysis requires a structured approach. Organizations need to dedicate significant time and resources to analytical tool utilization for optimal results. Success comes from effectively bridging theoretical models with practical application. Most implementations start with fundamental principles before progressing to more complex applications. Organizations that master GTO analysis consistently show improved performance across various metrics.

Technology’s impact on gaming evolution

The future of business and wealth making analytics looks increasingly sophisticated. Machine learning algorithms are enabling more nuanced and contextual strategic recommendations than ever before. Next-generation tools will feature real-time pattern recognition and strategy adaptation capabilities. This evolution promises more accessible and powerful analytical tools, elevating decision-making capabilities across industries and creating more dynamic competitive environments. The integration of advanced AI systems continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in strategic analysis and optimization.

Sycuan Casino Resort Donates $15,000 to Susan G. Komen San Diego

Sycuan Casino Resort Honors Pinktober With A
$15,000 Donation to Susan G. Komen San Diego

Tribal Council and Sycuan Team members also joined Susan G. Komen San Diego in their More Than Pink Walk on Nov. 3.

Sycuan Casino Resort Joined Hands with Susan G. Komen San Diego
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the U.S., accounting for 31 percent of newly diagnosed cancers, according to Susan G. Komen. In response, Sycuan Casino Resort donated $15,000 to Susan G. Komen San Diego on Friday, Oct. 4, to help combat breast cancer.

“Longstanding partnerships like ours provide a foundation to our vital work of spreading awareness, providing education, and inspiring our supporters,” said Leia Brune, Executive Director of Susan G. Komen. “Together, we’re saving lives!”

Sycuan Tribal Council members presented the donation to sponsors the nonprofit’s 2024 Komen San Diego MORE THAN PINK Walk, which raises funds and awareness for breast cancer research and support. The event also honors survivors and those fighting breast cancer with an opening ceremony, a walk and various educational activities.

Our support also continues to sustain the nonprofit’s groundbreaking research, community health outreach and patient support services, ensuring San Diegans have the necessary resources and support to prevent and cure breast cancer.

Sycuan Casino Resort Participates in the More Than Pink Walk
Members from Sycuan Casino Resort laced up their shoes to make a powerful statement of hope, unity and determination to fight against breast cancer during Susan G. Komen’s More Than Pink Walk on Nov. 3.

With each, Sycuan team members walked together at Balboa Park to support critical research, lifesaving treatments against cancer, and connected with cancer survivors who shared their inspiring stories and passion in fighting cancer.

The walk did not only bring awareness to fighting cancer; it was a pivotal moment to raise funds that will have a strong impact on the care available to all cancer patients. The proceeds help Susan G. Komen fulfill their mission of investing in research to improve cancer and the lives of cancer patients.

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer. If you would like to join us in fighting breast cancer, please click here.

About Sycuan Casino Resort
Sycuan Casino Resort began as a humble Bingo Palace in 1983. Now more than 40 years later, it has become a community landmark and one of San Diego’s premier casino and resort destinations. Guests can enjoy a wide range of onsite amenities including a variety of new restaurants from fast-casual to fine dining, meeting and event space, a full-service spa, fitness center and a state-of-the-art pool and gardens area with a lazy river and swim-up bar. Sycuan boasts a casino floor for a total of 2,800 slot machines and 54 table games in a variety of gaming options. Sycuan is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information visit www.sycuan.com or call 619-445-6002.

To stay up to date on Sycuan Casino Resort’s latest news, please click here.

About Susan G. Komen
Susan G. Komen is the only organization that addresses breast cancer through research, community health, global outreach and public policy—to make the biggest impact on preventing and fighting breast cancer. To date, the organization has invested approximately $3.6 billion in research and programs across 60 countries, reducing breast cancer mortality by over 42 percent and leading to the approval of 19 new medications for breast cancer.

Learn more about Susan G. Koman by clicking here.

Steel Century Groove: Everything We Know

Rhythm games have been a hoot in the gaming world for a long time and are still rising in popularity. From classic titles like Guitar Hero to PaRappa the Rapper and HarmoKnight, they are known for keeping gamers engaged for hours. Rhythm games seemingly follow a general pattern. However, solo developer Andrew Gaubatz managed to spice things up with his new game Steel Century Groove. It combines rhythm and RPG game elements. Published by Sloth Gloss Games, this title is already receiving astounding reviews on its design. In this article, we discuss everything we know about Steel Century Groove. 

What Is Steel Century Groove?

Steel Century Groove

Steel Century Groove is an exciting mix of rhythm and RPG that will bring a fresh perspective to the gaming world. It portrays an unexpected twist on the robot-battling genre. You would essentially expect robots to be war machines created to scour the planet, ridding it of evil. However, in this post-apocalypse world, humanity no longer has a reason to use war machines to prevent the end of the world. Instead, they decide to repurpose these bots and use them for a different kind of battle, dance battles. 

Players pilot steel monsters from their cockpit. They get to explore an amazing world full of musical adventures. You can create a team of different Lanzers with their dance routines to battle rivals. The goal is to become the world’s next dance champion. In this role-playing match, gamers enjoy the freedom of custom dance moves and music in addition to those already provided by the game.

Story

Story of the Game

The title tells a story filled with humor, charm, and heart. It begins in a modern cityscape thousands of years ago, where humans built powerful war machines to help them stop the apocalypse. Now with the war being won and the world reeling from a legacy of war, these war machines have already served their purpose. Rather than dispose of them, humans decided to use these machines to battle each other in dance competitions. These giant machines now roam the planet, and the worst you can expect from them would probably be a noise complaint when they strike up their dance battles. 

Gamers taking on the challenges must assemble a squad of mecha dancers to participate in the competitions. You challenge every foe you come across and compete for a championship trophy. Instead of wrecking each other, these majestic machines can utilize their unique moves to produce a winning combo. You uncover the secrets of a world where everything moves to the sound of feet made of steel. 

Gameplay

The Gameplay

In Steel Century Groove’s gameplay, you assemble a squad of skilled mechanical dancers and transcend through a magical musical adventure. On your journey, you take on rivals in dance battles and compete for the championship trophy. The dance battles get intense on a large scale as players groove to the many soundtracks in the game. Unlike typical rhythm games, Steel Century Groove does not require a specific button press sequence for each musical note. Rather, players have the mandate to select the best moves to defeat their opponents. You press buttons with good timing in order to showcase an amazing set of moves. Each mech embodies a unique set of moves with its mechanics and resources. 

Steel Century Groove has different war machines with unique skill sets. Players up their levels when they win the dance battles, earning them points as they step up the victory ladder. Moreover, they can combine a team of different war machines to craft dance routines. The combos give them a better chance of competing for the ultimate prize. 

A simple starter mech builds and spends energy. However, later mechs will have you maintaining an army of drones or swapping between cards in a mini deck builder. You can customize your character to suit your needs best and explore all corners of the post-apocalyptic world. Steel Century Groove offers you a free-form dance battle, a set of unique mech builds, and the option to add your soundtrack. All that, plus the promise of a mysterious post-apocalyptic world, is exactly the kind of thrill gamers anticipate. You get to dance your way through an exciting world with the perfect mecha crew and turn your humble beginnings into ultimate fame.

Development

Steel Century Groove

The solo indie developer Andrew Gaubatz is the creator of the new rhythm RPG game, Steel Century Groove. In the game, players take control of giant mechs and use them to compete in dance battles. You dive into a trivial journey from your seemingly small hometown to the big city championship. Along the way, you challenge every rival you encounter as you compete for the coveted trophy. Steel Century Groove has been in development for three years, and the announcement for its release was made only recently. It is designed for a gamepad, mouse, and keyboard. The title promises fun and adventure as players ride through this musical rollercoaster.

Trailer

The trailer depicts a visually appealing world overrun by robots and humans. It is a world full of intense sounds coming from all directions. The machines were built for war, but in this post-apocalyptic world, they battle in dance instead. It begins with an amazing display of a hoard of war machines flying through a beautiful bachdrop that is beaming with rhythm. They land on a dance stage where they bust out an amazing display of dance moves to a catchy tune playing in the background. Players pilot these robots in intense dance-offs on a massive scale, competing for points. 

Release Date and Time

Release Dates

Solo indie developer Sloth Gloss Games has set a release date for its new rhythm-RPG title Steel Century Groove, in which you pilot mecha in dance battles. Notably, the game is set to debut sometime in 2025. In addition, Steel Century Groove is to be released on the Windows PC (via Steam) platform.

So, what’s your take on the upcoming release, Steel Century Groove? Let us know your thoughts here on our socials.

Bravemansgame scared of no one at Haydock

William Hill ambassador Sam Twiston-Davies previews his rides on Saturday in Haydock’s Betfair Chase Day.

Haydock, Saturday

I’m very much looking forward to Haydock on Saturday for Betfair Chase Day. It’s an event I enjoy, even though I’ve never had much luck in the main race. Clan Des Obeaux came closest for me in 2018 when second to Bristol De Mai. It’s a race I know well, with a great crowd and buzz. I’m lucky to have some good rides this year, which I’ll go through below.

I kick off with Bowenspark (1:15pm) in a competitive handicap hurdle—the first of two rides I have for Henry Daly. I’ve never sat on this lad before, but he ran a nice race at Aintree in October, travelling and jumping well. Hopefully, that run has done him some good, and he can put in another decent performance. It looks like a competitive handicap hurdle, but his homework has been solid, and his schooling has been fantastic, so a slight improvement would be great.

Next up, I have the privilege of riding the fan-favourite Hillcrest (1:50pm) in the Graduation Chase, also for Henry Daly. The team has been incredibly patient with him, as he’s been off the track since the Albert Bartlett in 2022. This race presents a great opportunity to bring him back, and his schooling at home has been excellent. It’s a huge honour to ride a horse like Hillcrest, especially knowing how much effort Henry and the team have put into his recovery. Being even a small part of his journey is a privilege, but it also comes with great responsibility. I’m really looking forward to seeing all that hard work pay off.

I then have Push The Button (2:30pm) in what used to be the Fixed Brush Hurdle. He will have come on for his first run, and this is a race that Dad and Willy have always had in mind for him. It’s a very competitive handicap hurdle, as it should be given the prize money, but one we’re excited about. He has a good attitude and will enjoy the three-mile trip. He took a blow at Cheltenham last time but ran on well again, which was good to see. Hopefully, he runs a strong race at Haydock.

Then comes the big one, and it’s my first time on Bravemansgame (3:05pm). His record speaks for itself, and I’m very privileged to pick up the ride. Hopefully, the ground won’t be too soft—good-to-soft or soft would be fine for him. Blinkers have been applied, which adds another positive. At the end of the day, he’s a King George winner and a Gold Cup runner-up. The form is there for all to see. Paul (Nicholls) says he’s in great shape, and he’ll give it a proper go.

I close the day with Credo (3:40pm) for Anthony Honeyball, who was incredibly consistent last season. She placed in many big-field handicaps and definitely deserves her turn now. Things happened a bit quickly for her at Wincanton on her reappearance when she finished third, but it was a good run under her belt. I’m hoping she can improve further on Saturday in the final race.

Cheltenham November Meeting review

Looking back at the Cheltenham November Meeting, I was fortunate to have some nice winners across the three days with some smart horses I’m excited about. Potters Charm was very impressive. With his action, he would certainly still prefer slower ground. He’s very versatile, and while Cheltenham did a superb job, you can see why a handful of runners opted to go elsewhere. The horse will do most of the talking now. He’ll either go to Newbury for the Challow Hurdle or Aintree on Boxing Day for their Grade One (Formby Novices’ Hurdle). One is over two miles, and the other is two miles and half a furlong, so he has two options. It will likely depend on how wet and testing the ground becomes. The nice thing is he can go to either, hopefully get the job done, and then we can leave him really fresh for Cheltenham, which is very exciting.

East India Dock was also very good. He stayed very well on the Flat with slower conditions in some of his runs but handled the nice surface at Cheltenham. What really impressed me was how he crossed the line and finished off. He was very strong up the hill and has established himself as a very exciting prospect going forward.

Matata gave me another nice winner at the November Meeting. He got into a really good jumping rhythm out front, and you could see, by the middle of the race, he was stretching the field. He’s a very likeable horse who loves his job and wants to get on with it—he just wants to please. He left a slight question mark as to what type of race suits him best, but win, lose, or draw, you know Matata will always tough it out.

On another note, I was a little surprised when Harry (Cobden) said he would rather win the new Jockeys’ Cup than the Champion Jockey’s title, but at the same time, he’s already won that. My view is that for anyone growing up dreaming of being a jockey, becoming Champion Jockey would be the ultimate achievement. At the end of the day, the David Power Jockeys’ Cup is a fantastic initiative. Any jockey will tell you that riding top-class horses is a privilege, and the ultimate goal is to win prestigious races with significant prize money. However, above all, it’s the thrill of partnering with exceptional horses that we jockeys truly crave.

This incentive could be a great thing for the racing industry, not just for jockeys but potentially for trainers and owners too. I can understand why some feel it’s currently too focused on jockeys, but it could be the start of something much bigger for the sport as a whole.

“I would feel massively aggrieved if I were them or their families”

Grosvenor Sport ambassador Will Greenwood is back to discuss the fall-out from England’s disappointing loss against Australia and to preview the upcoming Autumn international tie with South Africa.

Reflecting on Australia

In the grand scheme of things, whilst England continue to bed in this defensive system that I don’t think they are naturally suited to, they will always run the risk of conceding an easy try and losing five or seven points.

The English team works so hard to score on one end, but it seems so easy for the opposing sides to score an easy five or seven points. To concede 42 points at home just goes to show that something is inherently wrong with this defensive system. It’s a matter of if they stick or twist with it, which listening to the press conference with Richard Wigglesworth and Henry Slade, the comments came across to me like they were still trying to align the team with the same defensive structure.

The team must be better at delivering the defensive plan quicker, that’s the be all and end all. If this is the plan that they are going to stick with, that’s what it comes down to, it’s not an overly technical answer. They need to pick it up quickly or people will keep coming back to it as something to blame.

England vs South Africa Preview

South Africa are the best team in the world, there’s no question. You only must look at the depth of their squad, when it gets to a point where they could put out a completely different team as they did against Scotland, every single player and supporter would still believe they will win the game. That’s some level of dominance, they’re a skilful side but the size of the team as well is a real edge for them.

Regarding England’s chances on Saturday, I’d say they’d have to score at least 25 points to have a chance of winning, which is tough to see judging on their last two efforts. What I would say is, rugby is a violent sport and be wary of a set of desperate human beings on a rugby field. They can win any game of rugby, but it’s what level of desperation are you prepared to go to, how hard are you willing to fight. There will be players in that England set up who will feel their career is on the line, if you’re part of a team that keeps losing, you’ll be thinking that soon you’re going to get replaced. Scotland have one of the best creative fly halves on the planet and they still weren’t able to get their scoring going.

As far as the England line up goes, I think George Furbank is a casualty of the fact that England can’t get their game going, he is the best attacking threat in the Premiership and England can’t seem to make it work with him. The aerial battle has been going against them, so you must go with Freddie Steward, they need to get that control back and have someone who can diffuse the aerial threat, Steward gives you that.

Ben Spencer is another unfortunate case, I think he’s got six caps now and he’s never won a game for England, that goes back to what I say about you only getting so many chances. It’s difficult to see how we can’t have made this work, Spencer in a Bath shirt is the best number nine in the country, Furbank in a Northampton shirt is the best full back in the country, we’ve seen a similar story with the England football team down the years! You throw Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard in the side together and suddenly they can’t play football, the system and set up is not getting the best out of these talented players.

I can totally see why these changes are made, but I would feel massively aggrieved if I were them or their families, because the system isn’t allowing for these players to show their talent.

Predictions & Tips

I think it will finish 28-22 to South Africa, I can see it being a great game and there’s a lot on the line for England, I think they will show a renewed effort, but the Springboks will prove just too strong.

England +6 handicap at 22/25 looks a good bet in that case and I think that South Africa’s Kurt-Lee Arendse is a good bet for first and anytime try at 8/1 and 11/8, I can see England getting the blitz wrong and he will take advantage.

All the best,

Will

BACK TO RUGBY SECTION

The wild story behind jokers

Bob Kane’s iconic comic book villain—who sometimes leaves a joker at the scene of his crimes as a calling card—is one of the most interesting evildoers of all time, with Oscar-winning actors including Joaquin Phoenix, Heath Ledger, Jared Leto, and Jack Nicholson finding fodder in his unique psychopathy.

The joker has also found its way into popular music, such as Stealers Wheel’s “Stuck in the Middle with You,” in which singer Gerry Raferty complains about being trapped between clowns and jokers—leaving him (and his unnamed friend) as the only trustworthy and dependable people in the room.

Still, the joker’s chief function remains that of a playing card. And in that capacity, it has many roles and a rich history.

The story of the joker

Playing cards have been around in various forms for more than a thousand years, but a joker is a relatively new addition to the deck.

Jokers were invented in America in the 1850s to be used as trump cards in Euchre, a trick-taking card game popular during the Civil War. At first, they simply carried instructions on how to use them in the game. But by the 1860s, some jokers had pictures of a court jester, meant to fit thematically alongside a deck’s kings and queens.

Eventually, the joker found its way into modern French-suited decks, which are the cards we know and use today. Getting two per pack became standard sometime around 1940. But, in a handful of countries, decks have three or more jokers for regional games that require them, such as German Rummy.

The joker’s many faces

As jokers were added to common decks, people began to figure out ways to use them in other games, such as Canasta, Crazy Eights, and Go Fish.

In some games, like Gin Rummy, the joker simply serves as a wild card that can be used to fill in gaps. In others, it may take on a specific value or rank and can be used to complete certain types of hands, such as flushes or straights. Sometimes it’s coveted—one variation of War makes it the highest value card—and sometimes players need to avoid it, as in Old Maid, where it represents the losing card.

 

There’s really no limit to the joker’s versatility! You can have them sub in for a card that’s either been damaged or is missing from the deck, magicians often like to incorporate them in card tricks, and many people have even taken to collecting jokers from different packs as a hobby.

The joker’s role at the casino

The joker isn’t used in most Ontario casino table games, but there are a couple of places where you may still see it pop up.

Pai Gow Poker, for example, incorporates a single joker and uses it as what’s sometimes called a “bug.” It generally serves as a fifth ace, which makes it very important since five aces is the best possible five-card hand there is in the game. However, it can also be used as a wild card in specific situations, such as taking the place of a single missing card in a straight or flush. This makes it an integral part of the game. You can learn more about Pai Gow Poker strategies here.

The only other place you’re likely to find a joker in an Ontario casino is in the slot aisles, where it might appear as a visual theme in some games. There’s no way to use it to your advantage in these games, though, since slot wins and losses are always pure chance.

Jokers may be welcome to clown around at home with your friends and family, but it turns out they’re just a little too wild for most casino games.

So where do all those unused jokers go?

Card decks used in Ontario casinos still come with two jokers per pack. What happens to the unneeded jesters? Funnily enough, casinos actually take the handling and disposal of jokers pretty seriously.

Whenever a fresh deck is opened on the casino floor, the jokers are removed by hand before being “cancelled” with a marker to ensure they can’t be used accidentally. Then they’re placed back in the box and stored until they can be delivered to a company that specializes in destroying and disposing of sensitive materials.

So if you’ve ever wondered why the joker never pops up while you’re playing Blackjack, now you know!

UFC 309: Jones vs Miocic Betting Handles & Trends

The UFC 309 odds haven’t moved too much over the last few weeks, but it’s still super interesting to see where all the betting action is ahead of Jon Jones vs Stipe Miocic on November 16.

Our friends at BetMGM have us covered for the UFC 309 betting handles in trends. Remember, each sportsbook will receive slightly different action, but here are the most popular Jones vs Miocic betting handles:

UFC 309: Jones vs Miocic Betting Handles

As of now, Stipe, the heavy underdog, is naturally commanding a higher ticket percentage, while Jones handles some heavier sharp bets. All told, the handle is close to even which could spell a big day for the sportsbooks.

Jones vs Miocic Handle %

Jones vs Miocic Ticket %

UFC 309: Oliveira vs Chandler 2 Betting Handles

This fiery rematch has garnered tons of action at BetMGM as Oliveira aims to position himself for a title shot with another win over Chandler. These fellas threw down a few years ago in a vacant title fight, with Oliveira winning by TKO in a thrilling battle. 

Check out our full Chandler vs Oliveira odds & picks here.

Most of the money is on Chandler at UFC 309, prompting his odds to shorten from +210 to +200.

Oliveira vs Chandler Handle%

  • Chandler: 58%
  • Oliveira: 42%

Oliveira vs Chandler Ticket%

  • Chandler: 79%
  • Oliveira: 21%

UFC 309: Most bet Fights (Tickets)

  1. Jon Jones (USA) – Stipe Miocic (USA)

  2. Michael Chandler (USA) – Charles Oliveira (BRA)

  3. Bo Nickal (USA) – Paul Craig (SCO)

  4. Oban Elliott (WAL) – Bassil Hafez (USA)

  5. Chris Weidman (USA) – Eryk Anders (USA)

UFC 309: Most Bet Props (Tickets)

  1. Stipe Miocic (USA) by KO/TKO or DQ +700

  2. Jon Jones (USA) by KO/TKO or DQ +100

  3. Jon Jones (USA) by Submission +200

  4. Paul Craig (SCO) by Submission +1000

  5. Jon Jones (USA) in round 2 +400

Stipe by KO is a silly bet in my mind, but I like bets on Jones to win by knockout or Jones to win in Round 2. We can assume Miocic will be better prepared than Ciryl Gane to handle Jones’ pressure, but at his current age (and rustiness), a finish is nigh. Jones in Round 2 at +400 is a fine bet. 

‘Get out there’: Shark Tank’s Barbara Corcoran said Fed rate cuts would cool mortgage rates, but there’s a downside — here’s why waiting to buy a home might not deliver the win you want

Following the Federal Reserve’s recent 25-basis-point interest rate cut this month, homebuyers may be feeling a renewed sense of optimism. While lower mortgage rates are anticipated, housing prices may not necessarily follow suit.

However, Shark Tank’s Barbara Corcoran recently advised on Bloomberg Television that it’s prudent to start house hunting now to avoid increased competition from other buyers who may flood the market if rates continue to decline.

Lower mortgage rates would fuel “tremendous demand,” Shark Tank’s Barbara Corcoran told Bloomberg Television on Aug. 13. Her advice?

“I would say get out there,” she said. Because if rates continue to plummet, that will “bring everybody out into the market, and what’s going to happen is you’re going to pay more for [a] house.”

The state of the housing market

Consumer prices rose by 0.2% in October, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, bringing annual inflation to 2.6%, close to the Fed’s 2% target.

On Nov. 7, Fed Chair Jerome Powell announced the second rate cut this year, slashing the benchmark federal funds rate by 0.25%. And on November 12 the rate stayed the course. “Overall, [we’re] feeling good about economic activity,” Powell said during the post-meeting news conference last week.

It’s the kind of news that may give prospective homebuyers pause. If you’re in the market but aren’t sure if now is the right time because of a Fed rate in flux, you can seek advice from professionals through Advisor.com.

They offset the legwork of finding an advisor with their exclusive network of fiduciary advisors who offer personalized strategies.

With Advisor.com, advisors are held to high ethical standards, keeping your best interests front and center.

You’ll receive tailored wealth management services, exclusive investment opportunities, and a dedicated team focused on helping you achieve your financial goals.

While rate cuts may not immediately lower mortgage rates, many experts expect they’ll boost housing demand, which could drive prices up. Freddie Mac noted that high mortgage rates had “led some prospective buyers to step back,” but a drop in rates could spark a “significant surge” in demand, especially from first-time buyers. They forecast home prices to increase by 2.1% in 2024 and 0.6% in 2025.

What can homebuyers do?

The starter home market is “crazy,” says Corcoran. “There’s so much competitive bidding, so much going over the price and so much fear going around because people feel like they can’t get ahead.” That’s why waiting to buy may not deliver the win you want.

“Wait until you see what happens with prices when interest rates come down another percentage point,” she told Bloomberg. If you are considering buying a new home, you need to know your options. Freddie Mac suggests getting mortgage quotes from three to five lenders. This will help you snag the best mortgage rate possible.

Borrowers who received two rate quotes saved up to $600 annually, according to 2023 research from Freddic Mac. That number rose to $1,200 annually for borrowers who visited at least four rate quotes from different lenders.

If you want a quick and efficient way to do this, Mortgage Refinance Center (MRC) can help you quickly compare rates and estimated monthly payments from multiple vetted lenders. All you have to do is enter some basic information about yourself, such as your zip code, your desired property type and price range and annual income.

Based on the information you provide, MRC will show you mortgage offers tailored to your needs so you can shop for a mortgage with confidence.

After you match with a desired lender, you can set up a free, no-obligation consultation to see if you’ve found the right fit.

Alternatives to buying property

Sadly, we don’t all have the money to jump into the housing market at a specific time like when the Fed rate drops. If what Corcoran is hinting at turns out to be true, and lower rates catapult market demand all over again, companies like Cityfunds offer a smart alternative for those hesitant to jump into an overheated housing market.

As a real estate investment platform, Cityfunds allows individuals to invest directly in the future value of owner-occupied homes without needing to buy property outright. As these homes appreciate, your Cityfunds equity investment grows alongside the homeowner’s.

Operating in sought-after major markets like Austin, Dallas, Miami, Tampa, Denver, Phoenix, and Nashville, Cityfunds even offers the potential to invest in homes close to you. With a minimum investment of just $500, you can access the $20 trillion home equity market — bypassing steep home prices, costly mortgages, and the complexities of property ownership.

In a Fed rate-cutting cycle that could drive up demand and make real estate harder to attain, the Arrived Private Credit Fund is another alternative real estate investment that gets you in on the lending side of the building business.

This fund invests in supporting professional real estate projects, such as property renovations, rehabs, and new construction, all secured by residential housing. Loan periods range from 6 to 36 months, and returns are generated through monthly interest payments distributed directly to investors.

With a low minimum investment of $100, the fund has historically yielded 8.1% annualized dividends and aims to deliver 7-9% in cash returns. It features quarterly liquidity, a diversified pool of real estate-backed loans, and monthly dividend payouts, making it an attractive income-focused option with security from real estate collateral.

Determined homebuyers, on the other hand, have two choices: wait and try to time the market, or jump in now, endure short-term challenges, and potentially refinance if rates drop.

If you do end going the refinance route, Mortgage Research Center can also help you shop for a better rate.

Just answer a few quick questions about your current home and loan, and MRC will you show you rates from multiple lenders so you can make a decision with confidence.

For those who can afford it, entering the market before demand spikes might make sense. Rising home prices would build equity, and even if prices stay steady, there’s a better chance of landing a desired home without a buyer frenzy.

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

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What is Slow Rolling in Poker?

Poker comes in different flavors. No matter what type you play, there will come a point where multiple players are left at the end of a particular hand. When it comes time to reveal the cards, taking an inordinate amount of time to show your hand is called slow rolling. And there is more to the act than meets the eye.

When playing poker in person – not at online casinos where movements are automated between all players – there are certain actions made by the player throughout. Some are just part of the game, but others can earn you the ire of your table mates.

There is one move known as the “slow roll” that is definitely frowned upon. It isn’t all that often that you see someone slow rolling, especially at casino tables, but you’ll know it when you see it. Let’s take a look at what slow rolling is, why it isn’t the best move to make, and when (if ever) slow rolling is okay.

What is a Slow Roll?

Poker is generally the same game, though there are variations. Some of the most common include five- and seven-card stud, Caribbean Poker, Texas Hold’Em, Omaha, and more. The rules change from game to game, but the goal is often to put together the best three- or five-card hand possible.

In poker, there is a move called the slow roll. This happens generally at the end of the hand but isn’t necessarily exclusive to that part in the game. It is the act of moving slowly before calling or revealing a hand.

You may see a player take a long pause before an important call, typically on an all-in bet. It even happens when the player has a very strong or potentially unbeatable hand. The player takes longer than normal to reveal their hand, typically occurring in some kind of showdown.

The act of slow rolling is a tricky one. Not only do they tend to wait before revealing their cards, but they tend to misrepresent their cards. They act as though they have lost or have a worse hand, only to reveal that they have the winning hand. It is a move that isn’t broken out often and is memorable – for the wrong reasons – when it does come up.

Why Slow Rolling isn’t Welcome

Slow rolling is typically not welcome outside of home games. The reason why it isn’t welcome is because it is considered to be poor etiquette at the poker table. Rules state that you should flip your hand over immediately after all bets have been settled whether you know you have the winning hand or not.

If you know that you have a winning hand – four of a kind, straight flush, royal flush, etc. – don’t keep your cards face down for very long. All it does is give your opponent false hope that they’ve won the hand when you basically know better.

It’s effectively rubbing salt in the wound. You know that you have the advantage and instead of simply showing the hand and taking your winnings, you drag things out and provide false hope. It can especially be tough in an all-in scenario where someone winds up getting knocked out.

Even doing it among friends is generally frowned upon. Doing it at a table of strangers is going to earn you their disdain, and the friendliness of the game will disappear. Think of it as effectively being sportsmanship in poker. We should all display good sportsmanship when playing poker.

Should You Slow Roll?

There are no strategies when it comes to the act of slow rolling. Simply put, you should basically never do so under any circumstances. In a home game with close friends may be fine because you know you will all be friends when all is said and done.

In order to avoid confusing your act with a slow roll, there are a few things to do at the end of a hand. Make sure to either muck or reveal your cards as soon as it is your turn to act. If you are calling a big bet, particularly an all-in, make sure you do it fairly quickly. You can think about it in truly tough situations, but not when you have a very strong hand.

Double-check your cards before you show your hand and never verbally misrepresent your hand. If you are relatively new to the game and aren’t quite sure, you can flip your cards over and let the dealer figure it out.

There are a few caveats where a slow roll may be understandable if not necessarily acceptable. As said before, it typically is only done among friends. Taunting is generally acceptable between friends and everyone will move on from the game with no hard feelings.

If you ever slow roll, don’t do it when there are major stakes on the line. The act of slow rolling will leave a bad enough taste in the mouth of the other person, let alone if there is a lot of money on the line. It is adding insult to injury and the other player will not soon forget what happened.

Live Poker Slow Rolls

When playing lie and in person, there is absolutely no excuse for slow rolling. You are only playing one hand at a time, so there is no excuse for not being focused on the hand being played. A slow roll will be seen as deliberate and (more than likely) insulting.

Playing online can change things, however. Most players are playing multiple tables at a time – known as multi-tabling – and their attention can be diverted elsewhere. That can mean a slower response than normal, which isn’t quite the same as slow rolling.

Don’t Confuse Slow Rolling with Hollywooding

There are certain actions that can look alike in the course of a poker game. It is all too easy to confuse slow rolling with something called Hollywooding. In poker, Hollywooding refers to a player who talks a lot when it comes time to make a decision.

A player who is Hollywooding is generally talking or acting in a way that is meant to garner a specific reaction from the other player. Essentially, it is a way of fishing for information to inform their decision as to whether to call or fold.

Make no mistake – both acts are frowned upon despite not being explicitly prohibited. Slow rolling is generally only done when you are the last to act, your opponent is all-in, and you’re head to head with that opponent.

Hollywooding can cover a few other bases. It can be done if your opponent isn’t yet all-in. Essentially, the player who is Hollywooding is looking for more information or trying to hide a timing tell. It’s acceptable but generally not a well-liked move by the player doing it.

You may also find Hollywooding in multi-way pots. This happens when you have the nuts, a player to your immediate right has gone all-in, there is one player left to act after you, and involves taking your time to act. Essentially, it is manipulating the hand to try to impact how the next player will act.

Players Hollywooding can appear weak in order to garner a call or attempt to seem strong in order to dispel another player from calling. Again, it isn’t explicitly illegal but you might not make a lot of friends by being a big talker, especially during big moments in the game.

Famous Examples of Slow Rolling

Throughout the long and storied history of big-stakes poker games, there have been a handful of memorable instances of slow rolling. Here are the three instances that tend to stand out in the minds of players everywhere.

1. Jack Ury, World Series of Poker Main Event (2009)

Though he is no longer with us, the late Jack Ury became the oldest player in the history of the WSOP Main Event at 97 years old. That year, Jack was in a hand with Steven Friedlander, seeing both players flop a full house. The flop was 6-6-7, giving Friedlander (6-7) sixes full of sevens, while Jack (7-7) had sevens full of sixes.

Jack bet on the flip, Steven raised immediately. He went all-in and said, “Why don’t we just get all the money in right now?” It was taunting but Jack immediately put his chips in and told Steven, “Bye, bye.”

The problem came after Steven showed his full house. Jack played dumb, asking, “What you got? You’re in trouble.” The dealer asked him to flip his cards but Jack kept pausing, waiting even longer before ultimately revealing his hand. It was essentially a strong statement that Jack had the much younger player dead to rights.

2. Aces versus Kings

In an online poker tournament with a $109 buy-in, two of the more renown players got into it before the flop. It became the ultimate pre-flop showdown, featuring pocket Kings versus pocket Aces.

A player by the name of Tonkaaaa 3bet at the button, with Jamie Staples 4-betting all-in with his Kings out of the small blind. Tonkaaaa slow rolled his Aces. What made it even more interesting is that both were streaming on Twitch at the time. The Aces stood up, sending Jamie packing early on in the tournament.

3. Sam Abernathy Gets Revenge

There were 15 players left in the 2016 Aussie Millions Main Event. Blinds were pricey, and a raise to 50K brought the action to Mikel Habb. He pushed from the button up to 112K on the strength of pocket Kings. What raised the ire of things was him taking his chips back and saying he only meant to call.

After the raise wound up standing, Sam Abernathy pushed all of her 514K into the pile with pocket sixes. Habb put on a slow roll that did not earn him any fans, taking his acting over the top. He wound up calling and had a commanding lead. But the poker gods struck him down for his slow roll, giving Abernathy a six on the river to send Habb packing.

The Final Word on Slow Rolling

Though there are probably ore egregious things to do in poker, slow rolling is definitely considered a no-no. It is considered to be disrespectful and adds unnecessary drama to the game where none was needed.

It’s fine to add a little insult to friends that you know and have an established relationship with. That aside, make sure to turn up your cards when prompted and to play with a level of respect for your other players. It will serve you better in the end.

72% of merchants report increase in chargebacks, leading to higher prices for consumers 

Almost three quarters (72%) of merchants have experienced an increase in chargebacks over the past three years, with many businesses raising prices to offset the growing costs.

These recently released findings from global chargeback tech company Chargebacks911 come as the payments industry grapples with the fact that illegitimate disputes by cardholders through card-not-present (CNP) transactions are outpacing the growth of eCommerce sales.

The findings from the 2024 Chargeback Field Report, which surveyed 300 retailers, from small businesses to enterprise merchants., emphasise that the rise in chargebacks—driven largely by first-party misuse (also known as “friendly fraud”)—is having a direct impact on pricing strategies across industries.

According to the report, presented in partnership with Edgar, Dunn & Company, 57% of merchants who observed changes in chargebacks noted an increase in frequency, with an average spike of 18%. As a result, nearly one-third of respondents admitted that the financial burden of managing these disputes has forced them to increase prices on goods and services.

To view the 2024 Chargeback Field Report in its entirety, click here

“The rise in chargebacks is becoming a vicious cycle,” saysMonica Eaton, CEO of Chargebacks911. “Merchants are raising prices to cover the cost of disputes, but in turn, this pricing pressure gives more incentive to those inclined to commit first-party misuse. The data clearly shows that friendly fraud is the real issue, far surpassing criminal fraud in many sectors.”

The report highlights a shift away from concerns over criminal fraud, with friendly fraud becoming the leading cause of chargebacks for many merchants. Nearly half of the respondents estimated that friendly fraud was responsible for at least 50% of their chargebacks, and 45% of those surveyed believed that customer misunderstandings—like not recognising transactions on billing statements—were a key driver.

Moreover, many merchants are struggling to effectively combat these illegitimate claims. While 75% of participants reported challenging some chargebacks, nearly half admitted that they don’t track second-cycle disputes, which suggests their recovery rates may be lower than expected.

In response to the rise in chargebacks, many merchants are turning to new technologies and strategies to mitigate losses. Two-thirds of survey respondents reported either using or planning to implement AI-powered fraud prevention tools. Despite these efforts, the report warns that businesses must do more to address the underlying issue of first-party misuse and better educate consumers on the proper use of chargebacks.

“Merchants need to be proactive, not just reactive,” added Eaton. “By employing better chargeback prevention tools and leveraging professional dispute management services, businesses can reduce their exposure to friendly fraud and regain control over their bottom line.”

To view the 2024 Chargeback Field Report in its entirety, click here

Online Roulette and Roulette Betting Systems for The Roulette Enthusiast

Being a roulette enthusiast, you’re probably already quite familiar with both online roulette and roulette betting systems. The Martingale, Fibonacci, and Labouchere each promise to deliver a structured way to win, drawing players like yourself in with the hope of a secret formula to beat the house. Ever since advanced betting systems existed, they’ve attracted both supporters and detractors, but here in the digital age, the question is whether these systems can work in the virtual environment.

So, let’s get started! Whether you’re an old hand at playing roulette games online or just getting into the field, the allure of using advanced betting strategies is strong. But, can they improve your odds or help you manage your bankroll more effectively? We’ll get to the bottom of that in this article — diving deep into the most popular systems and exploring the alternatives.

The Appeal of Betting Systems

Why is a system like the Martingale oh so appealing? Well, the answer’s pretty simple: they offer structure in a game with unpredictable outcomes. After all, roulette is a game of chance. Each spin of the wheel is independent, meaning what happened before or what will come after has no bearing on each result.

It’s only human to crave patterns and order, though, and a betting system offers a sense of control to gamers. They hinge on the promise that, with a specific plan, you can maximise winnings and keep your losses to a minimum.

So, does this structured approach really hold water when applied to online roulette?

Popular Roulette Betting Systems

To answer that, let’s first take a closer look at the most popular betting systems used in roulette gaming.

Martingale – The Classic Approach

Most gambling novices will have some awareness of the Martingale system, which indicates both its popularity and relative accessibility. The theory behind the system is quite simple — doubling your wager after a loss will eventually lead to a win large enough to cover all losses and generate an overall win.

While this system sounds logical on paper, using it comes with significant risks, especially in an online setting. For instance, most online casino platforms impose betting limits, which will cap both the value of your bets and the amount you can make in a single game. Plus, the Martingale assumes that you’ll have an unlimited bankroll to play with, which really isn’t the case for the vast majority of us.

Then, of course, there’s the issue of the dreaded house edge. Even when using this system, the house edge of the platform you’re playing at remains unaffected by your betting pattern.

Fibonacci – Slow and Safe?

Alternatively, the Fibonacci system, based on the mathematical sequence (where each number is the sum of the two preceding ones), offers a more gradual approach to roulette betting. Instead of doubling your wager post-loss, you instead apply the sequence of 1,1,2,3,5,8 and so on. After each loss, you move to the next number in the sequence, and after a win, you move back two steps.

It’s certainly a more palatable approach than the Martingale, but it’s not without its (very similar) flaws. Underlying the system is the assumption that you’ll eventually win, which is never guaranteed, sadly! While most people get lucky eventually, it’s important not to depend too heavily on that!

Labouchere – The Cancellation System

In comparison, Labouchere is a bit more complex and involves creating a sequence of numbers, e.g. 1 to 5. Your first bet is the sum of the first and last numbers in the sequence, say 1+4 = 5. If you win, you cross the numbers off and move on to the next pair. If you lose, you add the amount you just bet to the end of the sequence.

Labouchere is a flexible system that you can tailor to your bankroll and tolerance levels, which is what makes it appealing. However, it’s a strategy with a greater degree of risk, and need we remind you again of the house edge…?

Alternatives to Betting Systems

It’s really important to recognise that we’re dealing with randomness in roulette – whether you’re playing brick-and-mortar roulette with a randomised wheel or digital roulette with a Random Number Generator. The betting systems discussed can – for sure – modify the stakes of a game, but they’re not doing anything to the fundamental odds. Nothing can! So, what should you do instead?

Instead of relying on a single betting system, consider deploying strategies that can genuinely improve your chances of winning in online roulette, beginning with effective bankroll management.

Set strict limits for how much you’re prepared to spend per wager and per gaming session. And don’t forget to set a limit for how long you’re willing to play per session either.

Another way to maximise your winnings online is to play European roulette. The single-zero version of the game offers far superior odds to the American variant. Finally, make sure you’re taking advantage of all the bonuses and promotions available to you. Offers for existing customers can extend your playtime or even provide free spins — it’s not all about those new sign-up bonuses!

Big Guide To Bonanza MegawaysTM Slot

There are so many different online slot games available these days which boast a range of intriguing themes – and that sometimes means that both new and existing players won’t know which to try next.

However, we believe that there are some classic titles out there that everyone should have a spin on at least once. One which we recommend is the Bonanza slot, a game which has gone on to be hugely successful in the online slot world.

In this guide, we’re going to take a look at all of the key details you need to know before you play Bonanza slot on our Canadian online casino, including:

  • The history behind the game
  • The themes it embraces
  • How its gameplay ensures you have plenty of opportunities to win.

About The Bonanza Slot

The Bonanza slot is a gold mine themed game which was once described by developers Big Time Gaming as one of their “greatest creations to date”.

Why? The six-reel slot includes a layout which can shift and change as the game goes on. The big benefit of this? It creates literally thousands of ways for players to win prizes. This is the MegawaysTM mechanic, which we’ll talk about shortly.

The History Of Bonanza

Gamers got their first chance to play the Bonanza MegawaysTM slot at the end of 2016. Big Time Gaming launched the title in December that year and were immensely proud of the way that the game combined Reactive Reels and Megaways.

Interestingly, a little-known fact about the game is that Big Time Gaming developed it with the Twitch streaming platform in mind. Slots were really taking off on the channel in the months before Bonanza was released thanks to the Slot Stars trend, so the developer hoped to engage viewers and create an experience that was fit for the fun and commentary of the streaming channel.

The Inspirations Behind The Slot

But what are the key themes that you can expect to see when you begin to play Bonanza slot online? Well, the game takes you back in time to the 1800s and the California Gold Rush, when people became obsessed with the idea of heading to the state to seek out their fortune in gold.

The slot is set against a mountainous landscape with the rocky reels almost resembling a landslide, especially when the symbols cascading down with each spin. A wooden cabin sits on the left-hand side of the display, while on the right a stream keeps a water wheel gently spinning as the action unfolds. Keep your eye on the four mine carts that sit at the stop of the screen. These move across the tracks during spins to add new symbols to the central reels.

Some clever audio effects help to create an immersive atmosphere too, with the occasional tapping of hammers and picks giving you the impression that men are hard at work within the mine. In addition, when the spins begin, a lively country soundtrack kicks in and gives the game an upbeat, fast pace.

What Is Megaways?

The Bonanza slot is probably one of the best0known online slots which features the renowned MegawaysTM technology. The concept was invented by Bonanza’s developers Big Time Gaming and first debuted on the slot Dragon Born at the start of 2016. However, due to the immense popularity, they have gone on to give other developers access to it for their own titles too.

MegawaysTM is a reel modifier system which means that the amount of symbols on each reel can chance with each spin. So a reel may at one point feature just four symbols, while on the next spin it could have up to seven. This means that a whole host of different combinations of symbols can be created during the game, with the very emphasis of the action being transformed by just a single spin.

But why is it called MegawaysTM? Well, the shape-shifting abilities of the game mean that players have access to a grand total of 117,649 ways to win! It’s easy to see why Bonanza has proven so popular with many gamers.

How To Play Bonanza Slot Online

So now you have all of the key information about the story behind the Bonanza slot, it’s time to discover the basics.

Bonanza slot free play may be available at some online casinos, but here at LiveRoulette we’re all about playing for real money. Stakes can begin from €0.20 and can run all the way up to €500 a spin while wins could go up to 10,000x your stake!

Choose your stake, hit Spin and you’re off! A win is created by matching consecutive symbols from left to right, beginning with the left-most reel. The carts at the top of reels 2, 3, 4 and 5 add an extra symbol each.

Symbols

The Bonanza slot features a range of different symbols, including precious stones such as sapphires, emeralds, rubies and diamonds. Other symbols include the letters A, K, Q, J, 10 and 9, while during the course of your play you will also see Scatters and the explosive Wild symbols – which are shaped as dynamite.

The diamond is the most valuable commodity that you might see pop up on your reels. If you manage to land six of them, you’ll get a win multiplier of 50x your stake.

All your winning combinations on a single spin are added together, while winning symbols also go on to cause a ‘reaction’ during the game. This means that those symbols disappear, and new symbols drop from above onto the reels, creating more opportunities for you to win.

Wilds And Scatters

The wild symbols in the Bonanza slot only appear in the carts and they can substitute any symbol except for the Scatter icon. Speaking of scatters, players who are fortunate enough to get four GOLD scatters will win 12 free spins within the game, while any extra scatter symbol adds five more spins to your total.

Free Spins

The holy grail of slots, and Bonanza is no exception! An unlimited win multiplier becomes available during this round, and while it starts at 1, it increases by 1 when win reactions take place. Further scatter symbols may appear in the carts at the top of the screen and if they do, you will benefit even more free spins!

But what level of stake is used during a Free Spins round? It depends on what you were playing with before it began, as the stake which triggered the period will be used across its duration. Any winnings will be displayed at the end of the round and will then be credited to your account before the regular action begins once again.

Key Statistics

From max win to RTP and more, here are the game’s key facts and figures.

  • 96% – the theoretical return to player or RTP.
  • 117,649 – the maximum number of ways to win per each spin.
  • 120,000 – the maximum win available in coins.
  • 7 – the maximum number of symbols available on each reel.
  • €0.20 – the minimum stake to play.
  • 12 – the base number of free spins when you trigger the special round.
  • 10,000x – the max multiplier you could land in the game.

Why Play Bonanza?

Online slots may come in many different shapes and sizes these days, but few can match the experience that is on offer when you try your hand at the Bonanza MegawaysTM slot.

With its combination of dynamic gameplay, vibrant graphics and immersive audio, it has become one of the most popular games of its kind within the online casino world. In fact, after just a few spins, we think you’ll discover just why it has become regarded as classic of the genre just a few years after its launch.

So why not open an account with LiveRoulette and see for yourself why the Bonanza slot is so highly regarded? With 117,649 ways to win on offer, we’re sure you won’t regret it.

How Well Do You Know Bonanza?

When was the Bonanza slot released?

a) 2015
b) 2016
c) 2017

How many ways to win does this slot have?

a) 116,749
b) 117,649
c) 115,649

What is the most valuable symbol in Bonanza?

a) Diamond
b) K
c) Ruby

What do the GOLD scatter symbols award?

a) 12 free spins
b) a re-spin
c) a brand new symbol appears on the reels

How are wins awarded?

a) Left to right on consecutive reels
b) Right to left on consecutive reels
c) Any direction on the middle four reels


18+ | begambleaware.org | Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly. Terms & Conditions apply.

We Have a Winner!

Victor den Houting is The Festival in Malta Main Event Champion! He defeated Canadian Haven Taylor after an hour long heads-up battle to take the title and the €55,000 first prize.

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Haven Taylor

He went into the heads-up stage of the tournament with 10.675m chips versus Haven Taylor’s 6.3m. Taylor did manage to take the lead at one stage of the final session, however Victor who is usually a cash game player rallied and retook the lead and the final hand played out soon after.

In the final hand Haven moved all-in with K 6 on a flop of Q K 7 and after a brief delay Victor made the call, tabling K 7 for two pairs. This left Haven drawing thin, needing either running sixes to win the hand, or a queen to pair the board for a chop. The 4 on the turn and 9 on the river provided no help for the Canadian, who had been dutifully railed by her husband Tom Taylor throughout the final table.

Haven Taylor cashed for €32,800 for her runner-up finish while our champion Victor victoriously took down the €55,000 first place prize.

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Victor den Houting interviewed by Wiseguy

In his post tournament interview Victor revealed that he hasn’t played live for ten years and his journey here was the first time he has even been on an aeroplane in the same amount of time. Victor, originally from Spain plays cash online professionally and moved to Andorra six years ago, soon after the birth of his first child. He is now a proud father of three and has re-ignited his love of tournaments by securin this win.

Congratulations to The Festival in Malta Main Event Champion Victor den Houting! See you in Bratislava!

B9416402-141D-4E4B-966D-ED110F7F080D
Malta Main Event Champion Victor den Houting

The Final Table Result

#block-1b0dfeb3-1036-43ee-a460-97c28158d963 h2, #block-1b0dfeb3-1036-43ee-a460-97c28158d963 h3, #block-1b0dfeb3-1036-43ee-a460-97c28158d963 h4, #block-1b0dfeb3-1036-43ee-a460-97c28158d963 h5 , #block-1b0dfeb3-1036-43ee-a460-97c28158d963 { color: #000; }

Position Player Country Prize
1 Victor den Houting Spain €55,000
2 Haven Taylor Canada €32,800
3 Oliver Mihajlovski Macedonia €23,300
4 Mathias Jordi Switzerland €17,800
5 Bart Dil Netherlands €13,800
6 Mario Eder Austria €10,600
7 Krystian Nalepka Poland €8,300
8 Dragan Ignjatovski Macedonia €6,300
9 Jordi Ruiz Spain €4,800

How to Have the Best Las Vegas Halloween

Halloween in Vegas is one of the most fun experiences you’ll ever have. From classic haunted corn mazes and escape rooms to exciting costume contests and live shows, there’s no shortage of things to do at these Halloween attractions in Las Vegas. If you thought people watching in Vegas was fun, just wait until costumes are involved! Find where all the best attractions, parties, and events are here.

 

Fremont Street Rock of Horror

 

Celebrate Halloween in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas with the Fremont Street Experience’s epic festivities at the Rock of Horror Halloween Bash! This electrifying event brings the spooky spirit to life with free live entertainment, costume contests with $4000 in cash prizes, and the iconic Viva Vision light shows, all set in the vibrant atmosphere of Fremont Street. Enjoy themed performances, eerie street decor, and a thrilling parade of creative costumes as revelers come together for a night of spooky fun.

 

 

Rocky Horror Picture Show Screening

 

Get ready for a night of cult classic fun at the Rocky Horror Picture Show screening with Nell Campbell herself! Hosted at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, this interactive screening of the beloved 1975 film invites fans to relive the quirky, musical journey of Brad, Janet, and Dr. Frank-N-Furter. Complete with audience participation, costumes, and plenty of fun surprises, this event is a must for both longtime fans and newcomers. Whether you’re shouting along to iconic lines or doing the Time Warp, this lively Halloween celebration is sure to thrill and entertain!

 

Haunted Corn Maze in Nevada

 

Haunted Corn Maze

 

Prepare yourself for a heart-pounding adventure at the Moapa Valley Haunted Corn Maze! As darkness falls, the cornfield becomes a maze of terror, filled with creepy creatures, eerie sounds, and spine-chilling surprises at every turn. Navigate through twisting paths while trying to outrun ghosts, ghouls, and other terrifying beings lurking in the shadows. This haunted maze is perfect for thrill-seekers looking for a fright-filled experience that will leave you breathless. Enter if you dare, but beware – there’s no telling what might be waiting for you in the dark!

 

Horror Escape Rooms

 

Immerse yourself in spine-tingling thrills at some of Las Vegas’ most terrifying escape rooms. These scary-themed escape rooms offer heart-pounding experiences filled with eerie atmospheres, challenging puzzles, and haunting storylines. Whether you’re trying to escape from a deranged killer, solving the mysteries of a haunted house, or surviving a zombie apocalypse, these rooms are designed to test your wits under pressure. Some of the most popular Halloween escape rooms are inspired by horror films, including Escape IT, Escape Blair Witch, and SAW.

 

Freakling Bros. Horror Shows

 

Experience the ultimate scare this Halloween at Freakling Bros. Horror Shows in Las Vegas, featuring three terrifying haunted houses designed to push your fear to the limit. Enter The Gates of Hell, Nevada’s first and only R-rated haunted attraction, and descend into darkness for a shocking journey through demonic horrors. Or, you can face the Coven of 13, where witches and black magic will haunt your every step. Finally, brave Castle Vampyre, where ancient vampires await their next victim.

 

Friends Having Drink at Las Vegas Halloween Bar

 

Black Lagoon Pop-Up Bar

 

Step into a spooky and immersive world at Black Lagoon, a Halloween pop-up bar taking over Las Vegas this season. This bar invites you to sip on eerie cocktails while surrounded by dark, swamp-like decor inspired by classic horror. With creepy ambiance, gothic vibes, and devilishly good drinks, this pop-up offers a chilling escape from the ordinary. Perfect for those looking to celebrate Halloween with a spooky twist, Black Lagoon promises a night of eerie fun. Don’t miss your chance to raise a glass to the supernatural in this uniquely spooky setting!

 

Zak Bagans’ Haunted Museum

 

Step into a world of paranormal horrors at Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum in Las Vegas this Halloween. This spine-chilling attraction offers over 30 rooms filled with haunted artifacts, cursed objects, and eerie exhibits that will leave you questioning what’s real. Explore the macabre history behind items like the infamous Dybbuk Box and the creepy Crying Boy painting. With each room revealing terrifying stories of the supernatural, The Haunted Museum promises an unforgettable, hair-raising experience for thrill-seekers and ghost enthusiasts alike.

 

This spooky season, check out these Halloween attractions in Las Vegas to make it a holiday you’ll never forget. Whether you’re going for terror or fun, we have it all. Be sure to stay at the Golden Gate Hotel to be close to all the action. And, being the oldest hotel in Las Vegas, who knows what spirits might still linger in these halls to pay a visit to their favorite casino? Maybe a Las Vegas Halloween will bring them out!