Weekend Conversation Corner – April, 25
Welcome to the most recent instalment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we delve into the major headlines of the week that have captured global interest. As we break down the chaos of events into a concise summary, we will discuss the key stories that have moulded the narrative, impacted policies, and sparked conversations. Join us as we cut through the clutter and provide a condensed overview of the week’s important developments, keeping you informed on what truly counts in today’s fast-paced world.
Stay informed, stay motivated, and keep on gaming. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!
Fernando Saffores – Founder and CEO at Focus Gaming News
Svenska Spel reports drop in revenue amid casino closures
Svenska Spel, the state-controlled gambling operator in Sweden, reported a 4% decrease in revenue for the first quarter of the year due to the closure of two land-based casinos. Despite this, the operator saw a rise in online gambling revenue and hopes to offset the loss with its new Lyckoplatsen lottery product. The remaining Casino Cosmopol venue in Stockholm is set to close by the end of the year, marking the end of land-based casinos in Sweden. Svenska Spel’s quarterly operating profit increased by 96%, attributed to cost reductions from the closed casinos. Concerns remain about unlicensed gambling in Sweden, with the regulator highlighting sites in Curaçao, Anjouan, and skin betting as popular choices for Swedish players.
Holland Casino raises “serious doubts” over financial sustainability
Holland Casino Faces Uncertain Future Due to Dutch Gambling Tax Hike
Holland Casino, the state-controlled operator in the Netherlands, is expressing concerns about its survival following a significant increase in Dutch gambling tax. The tax is set to rise from 30.5 per cent to 34.2 per cent in 2025 and further to 37.8 per cent in 2026, despite the operator’s opposition.
After experiencing a drop in revenue and a net loss in 2024, CEO Petra de Ruiter has raised doubts about the company’s sustainability. Cost-cutting measures have been implemented, including layoffs and reduced operating hours at some locations. Despite efforts to improve player protection measures, the operator is facing challenges in funding responsible gambling initiatives.
Internal reorganisation has also taken place, with new leadership roles being established. The future of Holland Casino remains uncertain as it navigates these financial and regulatory challenges.
Legal gambling in the United States: where things stand state-by-state
Focus Gaming News reviews the legal status of sports betting and online casino gambling in various US jurisdictions in 2025. The American Gaming Association reported a record $71.92bn in commercial gaming revenue in 2024, with sports betting and igaming driving growth. Currently, 48 states offer some form of legal gambling, with only Utah and Hawaii prohibiting all forms. Sports betting is legal in 38 states, with online options available in 30. Online casino gambling is legal in states like New Jersey, Delaware, and Pennsylvania, with other states considering legislation. The article details the legal status of sports betting and online casino gambling in various states, highlighting recent developments and potential future changes in the industry.
Jana Mravíková to take the helm at Slovakia’s gambling regulator
Jana Mravíková has replaced Martin Bohoš as the director general of the Slovakian Gambling Regulatory Authority (ÚRHH). Bohoš emphasised the need for regulatory changes in response to the growth of online gambling and illegal offerings in the 2024 annual report. The report showed that Slovakian gambling spend reached €24.2bn in 2024, with online gambling generating bets of €12.8bn. Bohoš highlighted concerns about unlicensed gambling and the need to enhance self-exclusion controls. The online sector contributed winnings of €11.7bn, while online casino player losses reached €480m. Despite stable player engagement, land-based casinos and gaming halls faced challenges, with net losses of €340m in gaming halls. Bohoš expects the land-based gambling sector to continue facing challenges due to local government restrictions, while the growth of online gambling is expected to create more competition.
Time running out for Hawaii sports betting bill after House rejection of amendments
The Hawaii House of Representatives rejected Senate amendments to HB 1308, sending the bill to a conference committee for resolution. The proposed legislation allows for a minimum of four sports betting platforms and legalises fantasy sports, with a 10% tax rate on revenues. The Department of Law Enforcement would regulate the market instead of the Department of Commerce. Governor Josh Green supports the bill with adequate protections. If no agreement is reached by May 1, the proposal will wait for the next legislative session. Hawaii currently has no legal gambling, as a previous bill to legalise casino gambling was deferred in February due to opposition.
Brazil’s online gambling boom: a first quarter that exceeded expectations
The Brazilian online gambling market has awakened with the implementation of Law 19.740, leading to rapid growth and exceeding expectations. Operators and suppliers have adapted quickly to meet new standards, with mobile betting and Pix payment method dominating the market. Football sponsorship has had a significant impact, with operators focusing on localised, football-centric products. The market has evolved at breakneck speed, with a $10bn market predicted by 2029. The introduction of Sigap monitoring system ensures transparency and responsible gambling practices. The market’s readiness and engagement from players and operators indicate Brazil’s potential to become a key igaming market. Despite the rapid expansion, concerns about social responsibility and sustainability remain. The industry is closely monitored as Brazil transitions from a “sleeping giant” to a trailblazer in online gambling.
