Weekend Conversation Corner – March, 28
Welcome to the newest instalment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we delve into the week’s top headlines that have captured global interest. As we break down the flurry of events into a coherent summary, we will highlight the significant stories that have impacted the narrative, influenced decisions, and sparked conversations. Join us as we cut through the chaos and provide a concise overview of the week’s key advancements, keeping you informed on what truly counts in today’s ever-changing world.
Stay informed, stay motivated, and keep gaming on. Wishing you a fantastic weekend ahead!
Fernando Saffores – Founder and CEO at Focus Gaming News
British Gambling Commission to ban bonus cross-selling
The Gambling Commission in the UK has announced new rules for gambling promotions, effective from December 19. Operators will no longer be allowed to offer bonuses that combine different types of gambling products, with a cap on bonus requirements set at 10 times the bonus amount. The aim is to prevent harmful marketing practices and make bonus terms easier to understand for customers. The ban on ‘bonus mixing’ will prohibit promotions that require the use of different product types. While 50% of respondents supported the ban, some licensees opposed it, citing concerns about business flexibility. Additionally, new rules on direct marketing will require customers to opt in to receive marketing by product and channel, with existing preferences transferable once opted in. These changes aim to protect consumers from gambling harm and provide clarity on offers.
Ukraine to replace gambling regulator with new state agency PlayCity
The Ukrainian Commission for Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (KRAIL) will be dissolved on April 1 and replaced by a new state agency called PlayCity, as confirmed by the Ministry for Digital Transformation. The move aims to optimize state bodies and improve regulatory efficiency due to KRAIL facing various problems and controversies since its establishment in 2020. PlayCity will inherit KRAIL’s staff and office but will strengthen oversight, combat illegal gambling, and digitalize the issuance of licenses. The government expects legal gambling to generate up to UAH 10bn a year in taxes for defense spending. The reforms aim to establish transparent rules, bring the industry out of the shadows, and strengthen the Ukrainian economy. Gambling was re-legalized in 2020, with KRAIL overseeing online and land-based casinos, sports betting, and lotteries.
European gambling revenue rose 5% in 2024
The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) reported a rise in gross gambling revenue (GGR) in Europe to €123.4bn in 2024, with online gambling revenue increasing by 11.7%. Online gambling accounted for 39% of total GGR, with mobile devices contributing 58% of online GGR. Despite the growth of online gambling, land-based gambling still represented 61% of all GGR in Europe. The report also highlighted regional differences in online gambling penetration, with the UK leading as Europe’s largest gambling market. The forecast for European gambling predicts a market growth to €127.7bn in 2025, with online gambling expected to reach a 40% market share. EGBA Secretary General, Maarten Haijer, emphasized the increasing momentum of online channels driven by consumer preferences and technological advancements. The EGBA also welcomed a statement by the EU Court of Justice on international gambling law, emphasizing the need for EU members to submit proposed changes in technical regulations for gambling services to the European Commission.
Martin Bohoš, ÚRHH: “The reason for this high interest in online gambling is mainly due to a change in consumer behaviour”
Martin Bohoš, director general of the ÚRHH, discusses the growth of online gambling in Slovakia, with a report showing a 14% increase in gambling spend reaching €24.2bn in 2024. Online gambling generated €12.8bn in bets, while land-based gambling reached €8.92bn. The rise in online gambling is attributed to changing consumer behavior, particularly among Generation Z. The ÚRHH ensures operator compliance with responsible gaming measures, with a focus on consumer protection. Sports betting saw a boost from major events in 2024, with future trends expected in e-sports and virtual sports. Land-based gambling faces challenges due to local restrictions, with a predicted reduction in gambling halls. Technology like AI will play a significant role in the future of online gambling, enhancing responsible gaming measures. The ÚRHH aims to promote balanced regulation and combat illegal gambling in Slovakia.
Norwegian counties launch campaign to defend Norsk Tipping gambling monopoly
The article discusses how four counties in Norway are campaigning against proposals to liberalize gambling and defend the state-owned Norsk Tipping’s monopoly on gambling. The counties of Agder, Østfold, Rogaland, and Finnmark are highlighting the funding they receive from Norsk Tipping for sports and cultural activities, emphasizing the importance of the current model. The article also mentions the push from some members of the conservative Høyre party to introduce a competitive regulated gambling market. Norway is set to become the last Scandinavian nation with a state gambling monopoly, as Sweden, Denmark, and Finland have already introduced licensed online gambling or plan to liberalize gambling. Despite the current support for the monopoly system, some Høyre members are positive about a change, suggesting that opening the market could become more feasible after elections in September.
