Weekend Conversation Corner – May, 16
Welcome to the newest instalment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we provide a brief overview of the week’s most important headlines that have captured global interest. As we break down the flurry of events into a precise and concentrated summary, we will delve into the key stories that have impacted the narrative, influenced policies, and sparked conversations. Join us as we cut through the clutter and offer a condensed look at the week’s significant developments, keeping you informed on what truly counts in today’s fast-paced world.
Stay informed, stay motivated, and continue gaming. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!
Fernando Saffores – Founder and CEO at Focus Gaming News
Grosvenor Casino to up gaming machine count after UK tables land-based gambling reforms
Rank Group announced plans to add 882 new gaming machines at Grosvenor Casino venues in the UK following proposed land-based casino reforms. The increase will bring the total number of machines to 3,112 in the next few years. The reforms by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport include increasing gaming machine entitlements, adjusting machine-to-table games ratio, allowing sports betting at casinos, and removing casino membership requirements. Converted casinos in England and Wales will be allowed up to 80 gaming machines based on floor area. Rank Group’s share price rose by 15 per cent on the London Stock Exchange after the announcement, with plans to expand in Scotland as well. The industry has welcomed the reforms, which aim to simplify licensing processes and promote diversification in entertainment and hospitality.
British government outlines planned casino rule changes
The UK government’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport has proposed changes to casino regulations, including increased gaming machine entitlements and adjustments to machine-to-table games ratios. These changes aim to modernise the Gaming Act 1968 and Gambling Act 2005. The proposals also include allowing sports betting at casinos, expanding electronic table games, and removing casino membership requirements. The package aims to simplify licensing processes, diversify entertainment options, and align rules for converted casinos. Converted casinos in England and Wales may operate up to 80 gaming machines based on floor area, with a tiered scaling system in place. While the industry welcomes these changes, there is no proposed timeline for implementation. The Gambling Commission has extended the consultation period to gather feedback from stakeholders.
Oklahoma won’t see legal sports betting in 2025
The Oklahoma Senate has adjourned without considering sports betting legislation, specifically HB 1047 and HB 1101, which aimed to legalise sports betting in the state. HB 1047 would authorise sports betting with a 10 per cent tax rate for Native American tribes, while HB 1101 laid the groundwork for a voter referendum if HB 1047 did not pass. Despite strong bipartisan support in the House, the bills did not progress beyond the committee stage in the Senate. Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton mentioned the possibility of revisiting the bills in the summer. Governor Kevin Stitt has expressed opposition to giving tribes exclusivity over gambling in Oklahoma. The revenue from sports betting would contribute to gambling addiction treatment, education, and state funds.
Gambling in France: another record year for revenue
The French gambling regulator, L’Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), reported a 4.7 per cent increase in Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) in 2024, reaching a record €14bn. Online GGR accounted for 18.6 per cent of the total, with sports betting revenue rising by 19 per cent. The ANJ noted a rise in female sports bettors and an increase in active player accounts. However, the regulator warned of potential risks due to higher advertising budgets and a rise in French gambling taxes. Operators must submit their promotional spending plans for approval, with online sports betting tax set to increase to 15 per cent. The ANJ will monitor the impact of these changes on investment levels in the industry.
Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin, ANJ: “New innovative offers are emerging in France, challenging the traditional boundaries of the sector”
Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin, chairwoman of L’Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), discussed the regulator’s focus on transparency, integrity, and harm reduction in the French gambling sector. The ANJ instructed FDJ and PMU to enhance their strategies for preventing excessive and underage gambling. The regulator evaluates operators’ harm prevention tools and may impose stricter obligations on responsible gambling, advertising, and data monitoring. The ANJ is adapting to new gambling formats, such as ‘games with monetisable digital objects,’ and studying the impact of design on gambling behaviour. The French gambling market has grown steadily, with online activities showing growth. Unlike Sweden, France has many land-based casinos, with online casinos prohibited. The ANJ’s priorities include protecting minors, reducing excessive gambling, and maintaining sector transparency and integrity.
MPs call for review of gambling advertising rules in the UK
The Health and Social Care Committee in the UK is calling for a review of the British Gambling Act, specifically focusing on regulations for gambling advertising. They are concerned about the societal impact of gambling ads and want to address issues such as intrusive promotions and the collection of user data by gambling companies. The committee suggests involving the Office of Health Improvement and Disparity, the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, and the Advertising Standards Agency in the review process. They also recommend greater transparency in data held by the gambling sector and clarity on responsibilities for commissioning treatment. Overall, the committee believes that a review of the Gambling Act is necessary to ensure all agencies have the power and responsibilities to address gambling-related issues effectively.
