German gaming sector welcomes rise in minimum stake limit for online slots
The German gambling regulator has replaced the previous flat stake limit for online slots with a new tiered system.
Germany.- The licensed gambling sector in Germany has welcomed the federal regulator’s decision to raise the stake limit for online slots. The GGL introduced a new tiered system at the start of the month to replace the previous flat maximum stake limit per spin from €1 per spin.
The previous €1 limit now applies only to players aged under 21. Those aged 21 and above can wager up to €3 per spin, while those who demonstrate no signs of problematic play over a 90‑day review period qualify for a maximum stake of €5.
Operators had criticised the stake limits since they were introduced with the launch of the licensed German igaming market in 2021. They argued that the limits made the licensed market unattractive for players, increasing the risk of customers turning to unlicensed offerings.
Simon Priglinger‑Simader, senior regulatory affairs manager at Entain and vice‑president of the German Online Casino Association (DOCV) said the GGL’s decision to adjust the limit “sends a positive signal for the regulated gambling market in Germany”.
The GGL’s 2025 report estimated that 77 per cent of gambling in Germany takes place on the licensed market, but operators have disputed that figure. The regulator is currently undertaking a review of the impact of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling signed off in 2021.
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Meanwhile, the DOCV is calling for an update to criminal law to target the black market. It says that Sections 284 of the German Criminal Code date back to a time before online gambling and are ineffective in the case of cross-border online offers. “In the future, the crime scene must be at the place of residence of the players in Germany, otherwise effective prosecution will remain theoretical,” it argues.
