PCH Unveils Prize Protection Program, Names New CEO Post-Acquisition

Publishers Clearing House (PCH) has launched a Prize Protection Program and appointed a new CEO following its acquisition by ARB Interactive. The program guarantees all future sweepstakes casino prizes, addressing past concerns over missed payments under the previous ownership.

PCH’s new direction comes just months after filing for bankruptcy and completing its sale through the U.S. Bankruptcy Court.

New Program Guarantees Prize Payments

Announced Tuesday, the Prize Protection Program secures future PCH payouts using FDIC-insured reserve accounts and a bank-managed investment vehicle. It covers all new prizes awarded after the acquisition and is backed by investment-grade assets.

ARB clarified that the program does not apply to unfulfilled prizes from before the acquisition. Those remain outside ARB’s financial responsibility.

Owen O’Donoghue Appointed CEO

PCH also announced the appointment of Owen O’Donoghue as CEO. O’Donoghue, a former Meta executive and co-founder of InfiniGods, brings over 15 years of experience in gaming, blockchain, and digital engagement.

His role will focus on revitalizing the PCH brand with a mobile-first, ad-supported model while preserving its sweepstakes legacy.

ARB’s Vision: Trust Meets Digital Innovation

This marks ARB Interactive’s first major initiative since acquiring PCH. Known for operating Modo Casino, ARB plans to integrate its free-to-play gaming engine and focus on transparency, user trust, and modern digital formats.

Despite PCH’s recent decline, ARB says the platform still reaches over 38 million verified users, positioning it for a strong rebuild.

Bankruptcy and Missed Payouts

PCH filed for bankruptcy in April 2025, reporting just $490,000 in cash against $40 million in debts. Some sweepstakes winners claimed they had stopped receiving prize payments.

While those past obligations remain unresolved, the Prize Protection Program aims to ensure all future winners are paid in full, regardless of ARB’s financial status.

References:

• CNN