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8.17 million people at risk of exclusion in a cashless society
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At least 8.17 million people are at risk of digital exclusion in the UK, including the elderly, homeless and mentally ill, new research shows.
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Global Payment Trends reveals the financial and societal impacts of going cashless, as society shifts towards exclusively digital transactions in 2018.
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320,000 people are estimated to be homeless in the UK, while another 1.3 million adults don’t have access to bank accounts.
Cash usage is in decline in every region around the world, with eWallets, credit cards and bank transfers becoming the most popular payment methods in 2018, new research shows.
Analysis has revealed that if current trajectories towards digitisation continue, 8.17 million vulnerable members of society would suffer due to their dependence on physical payment methods. This includes 5.2 million households, or 80% of elderly homes, that rely on cash.
Also at risk of digital exclusion in the UK are the 320,000 estimated people living rough on the streets, 1.3 million adults without bank accounts and 1.352 million people with physical or mental health issues.
Global Payment Methods collates official reports to reveal the potential societal repercussions of digital exclusivity, whereby coins, banknotes and cheques are replaced by eWallets, cryptocurrencies and bank cards.
This rise in alternative payment methods has also led to a decline in ATMs, with the number in the UK dropping from 54,000 to 49,700 between January 2018 and July 2019 alone.
Since 2015, digital payment methods have risen to meet the needs of online shoppers, with eWallets and bank transfers the most popular in 2018. Cash is forecasted to be replaced by debit card as the leading payment method by the end of this year.
Percentage of transactions paid for with cash in the UK
Country |
2016 |
2017 |
2018 |
Total % change |
UK |
9% |
9% |
7% |
-2% |
This predicted shift would have detrimental societal impacts worldwide, with 1.7 billion adults without access to a bank account, 100 million people reported to be homeless and 617 million people aged 65 and over around the globe – many of whom will struggle to go digital.
There are 450 million people currently suffering from mental or neurological disorders according to the World Health Organization (WHO), with one in four people predicted to be affected by mental illness at some point in their lives.
These figures mean that a staggering 1.875 billion people could be isolated from a digitised society at any one time, due to mental health problems alone.
WHO has pleaded for governments to provide affordable treatments for mental health, as two-thirds (67%) of people with a known disorder never seek help from a health professional. Currently, at least 40% of countries have no mental health policy and over 30% have no mental health legislation.
Establishing affordable and equal access to mental health treatments is more important now than ever before, with the latest figures implying that debit cards, credit cards and eWallets will eradicate cash usage by 2022.
Helen Undy, Chief Executive of the Money and Mental Health Institute, said: “When you’re struggling with your mental health it can be much harder to stay in work or manage your spending, while being in debt can cause huge stress and anxiety – so the two issues feed off each other, creating a vicious cycle which can destroy lives.
“Ensuring that money advice is routinely offered to people using mental health services would increase recovery rates, as well as improving the financial wellbeing of the 1.5 million people currently dealing with this terrifying combination of problems.”
To read more about the impacts of digital exclusion in Global Payment Methods, visit: https://a2zcasinos.org/global-payment-trends
Source: Latest News on European Gaming Media Network
This is a Syndicated News piece. Photo credits or photo sources can be found on the source article: 8.17 million people at risk of exclusion in a cashless society

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James O’Kelly Appointed Head of Corporate Development at SolutionsHub
SolutionsHub is pleased to announce the appointment of James O’Kelly as Head of Corporate Development, a newly established role that underscores the company’s commitment to strategic growth, innovation, and excellence in client service.
Since joining SolutionsHub, James has been instrumental in driving key initiatives across the organization. Over the past 18 months, James has headed high-impact growth intiatives, managed treasury and led sucessful licensing for clients. His contributions have also extended to representing SolutionsHub on the international stage, enhancing the company’s global presence.
In his new role, James will take the lead on a range of high-impact strategic initiatives in close collaboration with the Board of Directors. His primary focus will be on identifying and cultivating key partnerships, as well as spearheading the development of innovative product lines that align with the company’s long-term vision. To fully dedicate his efforts to these forward-looking priorities, James will be transitioning responsibility for day-to-day operations and compliance to other senior members of the leadership team. This shift will enable him to concentrate on shaping the company’s future growth trajectory and ensuring its continued success.
“James has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership and a deep understanding of our business and industry,” said Lee Hills, CEO of SolutionsHub. “His appointment as Head of Corporate Development is a natural evolution that aligns with our long-term strategic goals and further reinforces the strength of our leadership team.”
James will continue to play a pivotal role in advising and supporting clients through increasingly complex regulatory, licensing, and jurisdictional considerations. Leveraging his extensive experience and strong track record of delivering innovative, compliant, and forward-thinking solutions.
The post James O’Kelly Appointed Head of Corporate Development at SolutionsHub appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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Week 19/2025 slot games releases
Here are this weeks latest slots releases compiled by European Gaming
CryptoSlots, a leading cryptocurrency casino, is celebrating its 7th birthday this May with exciting new game launches and player rewards. To mark the occasion, CryptoSlots is unveiling a brand-new slot: Safari Sunsets, taking players on a breathtaking journey through the African savannah at golden hour. With swaying acacia trees, and a sky glowing in sunset hues of orange and purple, the game immerses you in the wild beauty of the grasslands. Majestic animals like zebras, lions, buffalos,and the powerful elephant Scatter symbol bring the reels to life!
PG Soft has unleashed its latest big-hitting title, Knockout Riches. The new addition is a 5-reel (1 to 3 rows in reel 1 and 5, 4 to 20 rows in reels 2, 3 and 4) slot that delivers an action-packed slot experience with grit, determination, and big rewards. Ruby, known as the ‘Flaming Rose’, steps into the ring as a rising star in the boxing world whose fists must do the talking.
Relax Gaming, the iGaming aggregator and supplier of unique content, is challenging players to tame Fang the dragon in its fiery new release, Fang’s Inferno. The dragon with an insatiable appetite for riches returns in this 5×4 slot where big wins can come via Blazin’ Wilds, Flamin’ Respins, Fang’s Bonus Picks, Fiery Free Spins and Fang’s Bonus Picks.
FBMDS is thrilled to announce the launch of its newest slot game of Asian inspiration – “Panda Treasure – Sublime Series”. This is the inaugural title in its ambitious plan to reinvent its slots portfolio with new, rewarding online casino game releases throughout the year, that speak to different players’ profiles and competitive operator’s demands. The release of a new slot game aligns with FBMDS’s 2025 narrative, focusing on market expansion, innovation, and leadership in key iGaming segments.
Spinomenal has released its latest game to join the Wildlife series, Majestic Silverback. Players are welcomed to the untamed, lush jungle for an adventure. Verdant fauna surrounds the 5×3 reel frame, brought to life by an array of jungle animals, including jaguars, parrots, crocodiles, and iconic silverback gorillas.
Push Gaming has launched Olympus Unleashed, a futuristic take on a mythological-themed slot that combines the timeless appeal of classic slots with bold, modern gameplay. Created for players who enjoy the familiar rhythm of traditional titles but crave something fresh, Olympus Unleashed delivers a compelling blend of nostalgia and innovation.
Play’n GO’s latest 6×4 slot, Crabby’s Gold, washes ashore with gold-grabbing mechanics, evolving Wilds and a crustaceous companion who’s got more attitude than treasure maps. Set in a sun-bleached pirate cove where coins glint beneath the waves, Crabby’s Gold brings comic chaos to the high seas. With its curmudgeonly mascot Crabby hoarding multipliers and heckling from the reels, this 4096-ways slot isn’t just another maritime theme – it’s a tidal wave of personality.
Inspired Entertainment, Inc., a leading B2B provider of gaming content, systems, and solutions, is thrilled to announce the release of Piggy Winner™ – a pig-themed descendant of Inspired’s popular omni-channel slot Gold Winner™. This 10-win line slot game is packed with thrilling features including Wild Symbols, Cash Collecting Free Spins, a gamble option and Fortune Spins mode, designed to deliver slick gameplay and endless excitement.
Booming Games turns up the temperature with Inferno Fortune Power Hit, the explosive first title in the brand-new Power Hit Series. Set on a blazing 6×4 grid with 4096 ways to win, Inferno Fortune Power Hit is designed for players who crave nonstop action and high win potential. At the core of the game lies the powerful Power Hit feature, which can be triggered in both the base game and Free Spins.
The post Week 19/2025 slot games releases appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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ELA Games Receives Key Nomination at EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards
The studio is shortlisted for the “Brand of the Year – B2B” category
ELA Games, an innovative game development studio, has been shortlisted for the “Brand of the Year – B2B” category at the upcoming EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards 2025.
The EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards is an event that celebrates key figures and innovative brands within the iGaming industry. The ceremony recognises companies that demonstrate commercial success through game-changing creativity and contributions to the improvement of the industry. It gathers the brightest and most influential minds to reward those who have helped the online gaming sector grow.
ELA Games’ nomination for the “Brand of the Year – B2B” category highlights the company’s efforts in creating a portfolio that balances operator-centric growth with player-friendly gaming experiences. The studio has demonstrated a commitment to helping operators improve player acquisition and retention metrics through data-backed performance, making it a beneficial partner.
Marharyta Yerina, ELA Games’ Managing Director, commented on the nomination, “The ELA Games team is proud to receive a nomination for a significant category at a prestigious event. We’ve made considerable strides in 2025 to develop our portfolio and create games that both help operators grow and provide fun for players. We look forward to networking with all our peers at the ceremony, and congratulations to all nominees!”
The EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards 2025 will take place on June 19, 2025, at The Mermaid, London. The ELA Games team will attend the ceremony for a night of excitement, networking, and celebration.
The post ELA Games Receives Key Nomination at EGR Marketing & Innovation Awards appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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