Weekend Conversation Corner – May, 09
Welcome to the most recent instalment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we provide a brief overview of the week’s most significant headlines that have captured global interest. We will summarise the key stories that have impacted policies, shaped the narrative, and sparked conversations. Join us as we sift through the noise to bring you a condensed summary of the week’s crucial developments, keeping you informed on what truly counts in the fast-paced world we live in.
Stay informed, stay motivated, and continue gaming. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!
Fernando Saffores – Founder and CEO at Focus Gaming News
Focus Gaming News strengthens global reach with African expansion
Focus Gaming News has launched a new dedicated African website, Focus Gaming News Africa, to provide specialised coverage of the continent’s growing gaming industry. The site will cover a wide range of topics, including land-based and online gaming, sports betting, regulation, and technology. With a team of local reporters, the site aims to offer insights, analysis, and exclusive interviews with key players in the African gaming sector. This expansion is part of Focus Gaming News’ global growth strategy, following recent accolades and the launch of other regional sites. Africa’s igaming industry is booming, driven by factors like smartphone penetration and evolving regulations. Focus Gaming News aims to continue covering developments in the region and now reaches a global audience of over 95,000 readers monthly.
British online gambling yield rises despite new restrictions
The British Gambling Commission reported a 7 per cent annual growth in the online gambling sector, reaching £1.45bn in gross gambling yield. Online slots yield increased by 11 per cent, with a record of 4.5m active monthly accounts. Real-event betting saw a 5 per cent rise in GGY to £6.5m. However, overall GGY across all segments decreased by 5.2 per cent due to a decline in the land-based sector. The consultation on land-based gambling reforms has been extended to June 3 to gather more feedback from stakeholders. The regulator emphasised the importance of achieving policy objectives for consumer safety in any proposed alternatives. The previous quarterly record for GGY was in Q4 2020 at £1.66bn during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Ohio online casino and poker bill in the works
Rep. Brian Stewart is working on a proposal to legalise online casinos in Ohio, allowing for online poker and other casino games. Stewart, the chair of the House Finance Committee, aims to generate additional revenue for the state through House Bill 96. A report by the Study Commission on the Future of Gaming in Ohio recommended online gaming legalisation, with Republican lawmakers supporting the idea. Concerns about the impact on existing land-based casinos and racinos have been raised. Several US states have already legalised online casino gambling, including New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Michigan, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Nevada allows online poker but has not yet authorised other forms of online casino gaming.
Gambling Commission “keen to hear workable alternatives” on land-based gambling reforms
In a speech at the Bingo Association’s AGM, Tim Miller, the executive director of the Gambling Commission, discussed land-based gambling reforms. The deadline for the consultation has been extended to June 3 to allow stakeholders more time to provide feedback. Currently, bingo arcades and gaming halls operate under an “80/20 rule” regarding gaming machines, with a proposal to relax this rule put on hold. Miller emphasised the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring consumer safety in gambling decisions. The possible restructuring of government departments, including the Department of Culture, Media, and Sport, may further delay the implementation of these reforms. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide alternative proposals that align with the policy objectives of consumer safety.
GRAI: “Licensing is a key priority and we will be opening for phase one licence applications later in the year”
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) recently began operations, focusing on licensing and consumer protection. The GRAI has achieved milestones such as enacting the Gambling Regulation Act and establishing itself as an independent regulatory body. They are now preparing for licensing applications and seeking input through a public consultation. The GRAI plans to vet executives, collaborate with international regulators like the UK Gambling Commission, and promote safer gambling practices through a Social Impact Fund and the National Gambling Exclusion Register. Their goals for 2025 include developing codes of practice, technical standards, and research, as well as increasing sector awareness and compliance. Success will be measured by achieving legislative mandates and fulfilling regulatory obligations.
iGaming Ontario: “As we enter our fourth year, we are now seeing the true scope of Ontario’s igaming market”
iGaming Ontario has seen significant growth in the regulated online gaming market in Ontario over the past three years, with $82.7bn in wagers and $3.2bn in revenue reported for the year ended March 31, 2025. The market has matured, offering player protections and a variety of games. The focus remains on responsible gaming, with tools and programs in place to prevent harm. A centralised self-exclusion platform is in development to further enhance player protection. The entity is also open to collaborating with other provinces to elevate online gaming standards. Challenges for the upcoming year include understanding player preferences and launching the self-exclusion system under new leadership following the retirement of the executive director.
