Underdog Fantasy Names New GuardDog Fund Recipient

Michael Savio
By: Michael Savio
08/28/2024
Responsible Gambling
Underdog Fantasy
Photo courtesy of Underdog Fantasy

Key Takeaways

  • GSI will receive this year’s GuardDog funds
  • The funds are meant to support responsible gaming
  • Underdog has hired its first sports reporter, James Palmer

Underdog Fantasy is continuing its commitment to helping curb problem gambling.

The operator has announced that the Game Safety Institute (GSI) will be its next GuardDog fund recipient. The funds are meant to support responsible gaming initiatives across the US and collect crucial data to help provide insights into the rising problem.

GSI will receive $1 million from Underdog. They are the second company chosen since the GuardDog fund was set up.

GSI Brings a Fresh Look to an Old Problem

Underdog selected GSI because it is one of the newest companies to address the issue of problem gambling. GSI not only educates the public and raises awareness of the dangers of gambling but also studies data to help curb incidents of problem gambling before they begin. 

"The majority of investment and innovation in RG over the past 15 years has been centered on solutions focused on the player. As these initiatives start to mature, we anticipate increased regulatory and industry focus on product safety. A recent survey of major global operators showed that almost all understood the importance of product safety, however, only a third are satisfied with their current approach to understanding product risk,” said GSI co-founder Sarah Ramanauskas.

Underdog hopes that GSI can help offer its customers a safer and more responsible gambling experience.

Underdog Continues Strong Support for Responsible Gaming

While the GuardDog fund is Underdog's latest responsible gaming initiative, it is far from the first. The operators made a name for themselves when they first established the fund and awarded it to the first recipient. The results were promising enough to justify continuing the program, leading to GSI’s selection.

Underdog was also a vocal supporter of the GRIT Act, which would have earmarked 50% of US tax revenue to support responsible gaming programs. 

Underdog Hires First Sports Reporter

Just before announcing their new GuardDog fund recipient, Underdog took a significant step forward into the sports media world. They hired veteran NFL reporter James Palmer, who will run coverage for the league this season. While Underdog has a media network, they do not employ reporters.

Michael Savio covers the US online casino industry, giving readers insights and information they won’t find anywhere else. He has followed the retail industry since his time living in Las Vegas and has continued to do so as the online industry has taken off. Michael covers everything from online casino reviews to industry news, making him one of the most trusted insiders in the business. Check out Michael’s latest articles at casinos.com to see what he has to offer!