Weekend Conversation Corner – June, 13
Welcome to the most recent installment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we provide a brief overview of the week’s top headlines that have captured global interest. We will highlight key stories that have impacted the narrative, influenced decisions, and sparked conversations. Join us as we sift through the chaos and offer a concise summary of the week’s important developments, keeping you informed about what truly matters in today’s ever-changing world.
Stay informed, stay inspired, and keep gaming on. Wishing you a fantastic weekend ahead!
Swedish government proposes expanded ban on gambling on credit
The Swedish government is proposing an expanded ban on gambling with credit, aiming to reduce the risk of over-indebtedness and protect consumers. The new restrictions would prevent licensees from financing gambling with credit and entering into credit agreements with players. Retail and online operators would also be prohibited from accepting credit card payments for gambling. In a separate initiative, the Swedish gambling regulator is cracking down on Twitch influencers promoting unauthorized gambling, ensuring compliance with the Gambling Act of 2018. Several influencers have ceased illegal gambling marketing activities, and the regulator will continue to supervise influencers promoting illegal gambling. Recent banning orders have been issued against online casino operators targeting the Swedish market without a license, including Simba, Betblast, SlotMonster, and FoxyGold. Promotion on Twitch has been a common factor in these cases.
London borough proposes ban on gambling ads
Kingston Council in the UK plans to ban gambling, junk food, and vaping ads on council-owned property to promote healthier advertising. The new policy will also prohibit alcohol, tobacco, and high-fat, sugar, and salt products. This decision follows a health assessment identifying these factors as major risks for residents. The council aims to improve public health by reducing exposure to harmful products. The People Committee will vote on the policy on June 17. Other UK councils have implemented similar advertising restrictions. In March, the Health and Social Care Committee called for a review of gambling advertising regulations, urging restrictions before the watershed. Despite this, the House of Lords rejected adding gambling sponsorship restrictions to the Football Governance Bill.
British gambling tax hike could push two thirds of players to black market, BGC warns
The Betting and Gaming Council is lobbying against the UK government’s proposal to combine three separate tax categories into a new single category called Remote Betting and Gaming Duty. The current tax rates vary for different types of gambling activities, and the proposed change would maintain the principle of place of consumption taxation. A survey by the BGC found that 65% of gamblers believe a tax hike on sports betting would drive customers to unregulated sites. Another study revealed that 1.5 million Brits wager up to £4.3 billion annually on the illegal gambling black market. BGC CEO Grainne Hurst warned that increasing taxes could push customers away from the regulated market and towards unsafe, unregulated alternatives, posing a threat to the industry and player safety.
Dutch gambling regulator outlines new “Regulator 2.0” approach
The Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), is adopting a new ‘Regulator 2.0’ approach to improve communication and flexibility with operators. Head of regulatory department, Renske Fikkers, emphasized the regulator’s shift towards finding creative solutions and engaging with operators. The KSA aims to enhance cooperation and expects operators to evolve as well, especially with upcoming license renewals. Fikkers highlighted the importance of consumer protection, including awareness campaigns on gambling harm. Despite doubts about Dutch gambling reforms, the KSA warns operators to comply to avoid stricter regulations. The focus is on protecting citizens, especially minors, from gambling risks, leading to potential stricter laws and regulations. The KSA urges operators to adhere to rules to maintain a legal and profitable market.
Irish gambling regulator responds to concerns over proposed licence fee structure
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has addressed operator concerns regarding the proposed framework for new Irish gambling licenses. After receiving 27 submissions, the GRAI acknowledged feedback on application fees and license durations. Operators raised issues with the fee structure based on turnover and the baseline fees for remote licenses and premises. The GRAI is considering a tiered fee model and adjusting premises fees based on operations. Despite suggestions for longer license durations, the GRAI maintains a three-year term for the new regulated online gambling market. The GRAI will provide clarity on renewal fees and administrative requirements and notify the European Commission of its proposed licensing framework. The GRAI will continue to engage with stakeholders and offer guidance as needed.
