Weekend Conversation Corner – August, 22
Welcome to the most recent instalment 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. As we break down the flurry of events into a concise summary, we will discuss the key stories that have influenced the narrative, impacted 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 keep gaming on. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!
Dayne-O’Brien, Arizona Department of Gaming: “Arizona has one of the most expansive gaming markets in the US”
Dayne O’Brien, Public Information Officer at the Arizona Department of Gaming, discusses the state’s expanding gambling market in an exclusive interview with Focus Gaming News. The ADG is focusing on enforcing regulations against illegal operators, enhancing consumer protections, and promoting responsible gaming resources. They have launched the “Check Your Bet” campaign and are prioritising strict enforcement, consumer protection, and expanding resources for those affected by gambling harms. The ADG is also collaborating with tribal regulators and law enforcement to ensure a safe gaming environment. They offer a voluntary self-exclusion program and are finalising Responsible Gaming Training. Future plans for 2026 include continued enforcement against illegal gambling, enhancing consumer protection and education, expanding responsible gaming efforts, and strengthening collaborations with stakeholders to safeguard the integrity of Arizona’s gaming industry.
New report raises concerns over unlicensed gambling in Slovakia
The article discusses a report by the Institute for the Regulation of Gambling in Slovakia, highlighting concerns about unlicensed gambling in the country. The report reveals that a significant portion of the adult population has engaged in online gambling, with a high percentage using unlicensed platforms. Reasons for choosing illegal operators include higher bonuses and better odds. The study also addresses the challenges of distinguishing between legal and illegal gambling advertisements. Recommendations from the report include blocking payments to illegal operators, enhancing regulatory powers, and utilising technology to combat illegal activities. The article also mentions recent leadership changes in the Slovakian Gambling Regulatory Authority, emphasising the need for regulatory adjustments to address the growth of online gambling and illegal offerings.
Betting is part of British culture, gamblers say
A recent survey commissioned by the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) revealed that 74 per cent of regular bettors consider gambling to be a distinctive part of British culture. The survey was conducted in opposition to proposed UK gambling tax reforms, which aim to unify the current three separate tax categories into a new Remote Betting and Gaming Duty. The BGC argues that these reforms could increase costs for traditional horse racing betting operators and drive more customers to the unregulated gambling black market. The industry also criticised the British horseracing sector’s decision to suspend racing fixtures in protest against the government’s plans. BGC CEO Grainne Hurst emphasised the cultural and economic contributions of regulated betting and gaming operators and called for a balanced approach to taxation to protect consumers and the industry’s future.
Greece launches drive to clamp down on illegal gambling
The Greek government is cracking down on illegal gambling, both online and offline, with plans to prosecute unlicensed operators. Measures include immediate closure of venues hosting illegal gambling, AI-powered surveillance for online platforms, and public education on gambling risks. Nearly 800,000 Greeks participated in illegal gambling in 2024, leading to an estimated annual loss of €1bn. The government aims to strengthen the legal gambling sector and shift users away from unlicensed platforms. Additionally, a Greek national lottery tender is underway, with OPAP and IGT’s Brightstar competing for exclusive operational rights for state lotteries. The tender covers various state-owned lotteries for at least 10 years. Cooperation between authorities and regulatory bodies is crucial in tackling illegal gambling operations.
Gambling Commission stats show rise in online gaming despite new stake limits
The British Gambling Commission’s latest data for the gaming industry in Great Britain for the quarter ending June 30, 2025, shows a rise in gross gambling yield (GGY) despite new stake limits for online slots. Online GGY reached £1.49bn, up 2 per cent from the previous year, with total bets and spins increasing by 6 per cent. Real event betting GGY decreased by 9 per cent to £570m, while slots GGY increased by 14 per cent to £745m. The number of spins reached 24.4bn, a new peak, but the average monthly active accounts decreased. The impact of stake limits on online slots seems limited, with GGY not declining. Retail betting premises also saw a 5 per cent decrease in GGY. The data highlights changes in session lengths and active accounts, indicating potential growth slowdown rather than decline due to new regulations.
