Norway could lose millions if it ends gambling monopoly
A new report shows that there would be major consequences if Norway terminates its gambling monopoly system.
Norway.- A new report from Oslo Economics on behalf of the Norwegian Sports Federation and ExtraStiftelsen has revealed that sports and NGOs can lose €130 million a year if the government decides to terminate the current gambling monopoly in Norway.
The gambling monopoly in Norway establishes that games are organised by Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto. However, that system is being challenged by operators that wish to obtain licences to offer their games in the local market.
The report says that there would be serious consequences if the gambling monopoly is wound up. Oslo Economics Senior Partner Asbjørn Englund said: “We conclude that the exclusive rights model works well and that a licensing model will entail a significant risk of increasing the scope of problem gambling and reduced contributions to the voluntary and ideal work for companies.”
The report also found that if a licensing model results in increased gambling in Norway, more Norwegians would become dependent on gambling. Norwegian Confederation of Sports Berit Kjøll said: “In practice, selecting a licence model means opting out of a model that works, in exchange for a model with the highest uncertainty for the beneficiaries of the surplus and for the risk players.”
Gambling ads ban in Norway could affect broadcasters’ revenue
Earlier this week, it was reported that the proposed ban on gambling ads from foreign companies could end up hurting broadcasters’ revenue by €25 million to €50 million.
The report says that Discovery Networks Norway (DNN) and NENT Group could end up losing revenues from advertising around €25 million to €50 million if the bill obtains passage. The companies are the third and fourth largest broadcasters in the country, respectively.
The Ministry of Culture noticed that comment on the report will be received until August 31. After that date, it will review all feedback in order to decide how to proceed.
