Genesis Global to appeal “disproportionate UK suspension”

Online gambling operator Genesis Global has confirmed it will appeal against the suspension of its operating licence in Great Britain.

UK.- Genesis Global has said it will appeal the Gambling Commission’s decision to suspend its licence to operate in Great Britain.

The Commission suspended the operator’s licence this week pending a review of its activities due to two suspected licence breaches. 

It said it was launching a review of Genesis Global’s activities under section 116(2)(a) of the Gambling Act 2005, which allows the Commission to review a licensee if it has reason to suspect that it is undertaking activities not in accordance with a condition of the licence.

The Commission said in a statement: “We suspect that Genesis Global Limited has breached a condition of the licence (section 116(2)(a) of the Act)) and is unsuitable to carry on the licensed activities (section 116(2)(c)(i)) of the Act).

“We therefore consider it appropriate to suspend the licence with immediate effect pending the conclusion of the review.”

The licence suspension makes it illegal for Genesis Global to offer services in Great Britain via websites including casinoplanet.com, casinojoy.com, genesiscasino.com and vegashero.com

Genesis says it has taken legal advice and considers the suspension “disproportionate” and “inconsistent with the Commission’s previous regulatory enforcement action in regard to other operators”.

The operator said it received a routine compliance assessment this month and had a similar previous review without any adverse findings.

It said that after the latest assessment, it voluntarily provided the Gambling Commission with an action plan, prior to the Commission announcing its suspension and review.

“Genesis has expressed its extreme level of disappointment with this determination and outcome and is therefore firmly committed to complying with the Commission’s extensive range of regulations.

“This means Genesis will continue with its own existing compliance systems, policies and procedures whilst also continuously improving upon them.

“This will ensure a responsible and safe gaming environment for all players, where Genesis is confident that this will be clearly reflected during the review process.

“To our loyal and trusting stakeholders; in particular our dedicated customers, team, suppliers, and others we assure you that it is business as usual in all other jurisdictions in which the company operates and we appreciate your continued support during these challenging times.”

The UK’s Gambling Commission is currently carrying out a consultation on the introduction of guidelines for online casino design.