Weekend Conversation Corner – December, 12
Welcome to the most recent issue of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we take a brief look at the week’s top headlines that have captured global interest. As we break down the whirlwind of events into a concise summary, we will highlight the key stories that have impacted the narrative, influenced policies, and sparked conversations. Join us as we cut through the chatter and provide a condensed overview of the week’s crucial developments, keeping you informed about what really counts in today’s fast-paced world.
Stay informed, stay motivated, and keep gaming on. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!
Decline in Danish gaming revenue raises concerns ahead of new advertising restrictions
In October, Danish gambling revenue dropped by 3.4 per cent year-on-year, mainly due to a 46 per cent decrease in sports betting revenue. Despite major sporting events taking place, new gambling advertising restrictions may have contributed to the decline. However, online casino revenue increased by 24.4 per cent and land-based casinos saw a 6 per cent rise. Total revenue among licensed operators was DKK 599m, with online casino revenue accounting for over half of the year-to-date GGR. There are concerns that the drop in sports betting revenue may indicate more customers turning to unlicensed operators. Overall, online casino revenue continues to rise while sports betting revenue declines.
British gambling participation holds steady, according to latest survey
The latest Gambling Survey for Great Britain shows a slight increase in non-lottery gaming participation compared to overall gambling. Overall, gambling participation in Britain has remained stable, with 47 per cent of adults reporting gambling in the past four weeks. Lotteries are the most popular form of play, followed by sports betting and scratchcards. Horseracing betting saw an increase to 7 per cent. Online gambling participation remained at 38 per cent, with digital lottery tickets being the most popular online product. In-person gambling participation was at 28 per cent, with National Lottery tickets leading the way. Reasons for gambling include the chance to win big money and fun. The upcoming editions of the survey will be closely watched to assess the impact of the UK gambling tax increase on participation.
Igaming association pushes back against call for higher tax for online casinos in Sweden
The Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling, BOS, criticised a proposal by AB Trav och Galopp (ATG) CEO to increase tax rates for online casino gaming in Sweden, similar to the UK. BOS argued that higher taxes would harm the regulated gambling sector by pushing players to unlicensed operators and weakening consumer protection. They also disputed claims of higher risk in online casino gaming, citing research showing a decrease in gambling-related harm since regulation in 2019. In contrast, the UK announced tax rises for online casino and general betting, exempting horse racing. BOS suggested that horse racing could handle a tax increase better due to higher channelisation rates. They proposed lowering taxes on other products to improve channelisation and consumer protection.
New York governor signs bill to ban online sweepstakes casinos
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has signed Senate Bill 5935, which prohibits online sweepstakes casinos from using dual-currency payment systems. The bill defines online sweepstakes games as those offering players a chance to win cash prizes while simulating casino-style gameplay. Violations may result in fines ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, and entities that do not comply may lose their gaming license. This move follows Montana’s legislation banning online sweepstakes casinos, making it the first state to do so.
Estonian gambling tax cut passed by parliament
The Estonian parliament approved a phased reduction in online gambling tax, aiming for a final rate of 4 per cent by 2028. Despite criticism, the measure proposed by MP Tanel Tein passed, with the goal of attracting international operators to boost tax revenue. Some concerns were raised about potential funding cuts for culture and oversight risks. Former finance minister Mart Võrklaev, who initially opposed the proposal, eventually voted in favour to prevent a budget crisis. This move contrasts with other European countries like Sweden, France, and the UK, which have increased gambling taxes. Observers will now watch Estonia to see if the tax reduction strategy will indeed lead to higher revenue, as seen in the Netherlands, where a tax hike resulted in a revenue decline.
Bulgarian lawmakers reject proposal to nationalise gambling
The Bulgarian National Assembly rejected a proposal for state control of all gambling, with only 58 votes in favour. Supporters argued for increased safeguards, while opponents feared damage to the gambling tourism sector and a loss of tax revenue. A separate proposal for the privatisation of Bulgaria’s state lottery and sports betting operation was also presented. This highlights the ongoing debate among lawmakers on how to organise and oversee gambling in Bulgaria. The current state monopoly has not met revenue targets, leading to calls for privatisation through a concession model. The proposed framework includes issuing a public call for proposals by March 31, 2026, with the concession granted for at least 15 years to Bulgarian-registered companies or foreign firms with a presence in Bulgaria.
