Weekend Conversation Corner – February, 13
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. We will summarise the key stories that have impacted the narrative, influenced policies, and sparked conversations. Join us as we cut through the clutter to bring you a concise summary of the week’s important developments, keeping you informed on what truly matters in today’s ever-changing world.
Stay informed, stay inspired, and keep gaming on. Wishing you a fantastic weekend ahead!
Hawaii sports betting bill advances
The article discusses a bill in Hawaii proposing the legalisation of sports betting, facing opposition despite advancing in the House Committee. The bill would allow online sports betting platforms with a 15 per cent tax rate and regulation by the Department of Business. Another bill seeks to legalise casino gaming on cruise ships with a 20 per cent tax on revenue, restricted to large ships on voyages lasting 100 hours from 2027. The aim is to attract major cruise operators without allowing land-based casinos in Hawaii. The potential economic and social impact is under review, with concerns about the oversight capacity of the Department of Commerce. The article highlights the ongoing debate surrounding gambling legislation in Hawaii.
Dutch gambling regulator names Carol Verheij as new vice chair
Carol Verheij appointed as new member of KSA Board of Directors, succeeding Bernadette van Buchem as vice chair from March 1. Verheij, previously Secretary-Director of the Dutch Safety Board, brings experience in legal frameworks and governance. The Netherlands Gambling Authority aims to future-proof its structure under her leadership, focusing on integrity and compliance. Verheij is dedicated to ensuring safe gambling, especially online, and collaborating with partners to enhance market reliability. The KSA Board will now consist of three members, providing direction and maintaining relationships with stakeholders. Verheij’s appointment signifies a strategic move towards a more robust organisational structure for the KSA.
Armenia weighs bill to clarify process for central gambling monitoring system
The Armenian National Assembly is considering a bill to clarify the legal aspects of establishing a centralised gambling monitoring system. Introduced by Rafael Gevorgyan, the bill aims to streamline the operator selection process. The system, implemented in 2024, will oversee both land-based and online gambling in real-time. The bill addresses concerns regarding the appeals process and introduces judicial safeguards to prevent delays. Gevorgyan emphasised the system’s ability to track bets instantly for revenue monitoring. However, MP Hayk Sargsyan criticised delays in implementing the 2024 law. Additionally, new fees for online gambling were introduced in Armenia last year.
Swedish regulator confirms new gambling supervision fees for 2026
The Swedish gambling regulator, Spelinspektionen, will implement new supervision fees starting March 1, 2026, under Regulation SIFS 2026:1. Online casino and betting licences will cost SEK 240,000 per licence, while gambling software permits will be SEK 16,500 per fee period. Fees are charged per license, not per corporate group, and vary based on the type of gambling activity. The regulator may reduce or waive fees in exceptional cases. Recently, Spelinspektionen fined L&L Europe Limited for failing to provide required information on their websites, highlighting the importance of compliance with regulations. The revised fee structure aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the Swedish gambling industry.
Andrew Rhodes to step down as British Gambling Commission chief executive
Andrew Rhodes is stepping down as CEO of the British Gambling Commission after almost five years of overseeing significant changes. Deputy CEO Sarah Gardner will serve as interim chief executive while the search for a permanent successor begins. Rhodes, who took on the role in June 2021, led the regulator through a period of intense change, including the review of the 2005 Gambling Act and implementation of the Gambling White Paper recommendations. During his tenure, Rhodes introduced financial risk checks, tightened controls on online gaming, and oversaw the introduction of the Gambling Survey for Great Britain and the tender for the Fourth National Lottery license. Industry stakeholders have praised Rhodes for his leadership, although his departure adds uncertainty during a challenging period for the industry. The Gambling Commission is also seeking a new chair.
Greece moves to tighten laws on unlicensed gambling
The Greek government is planning to introduce stricter penalties for illegal gambling, targeting both operators and players. The Ministry of Economy and Finance is working on new legislation in collaboration with the Hellenic Gaming Commission to crack down on unlicensed gambling activities. The proposed bill includes harsh penalties such as business closures and prison terms of up to ten years. Internet cafes, often associated with illegal gambling, will face stricter licensing requirements. Offenders could face prison sentences of up to ten years and fines ranging from €50,000 to €100,000. The government aims to establish a comprehensive framework to address illegal gambling, whether online or in physical venues, reflecting technological advancements and input from industry stakeholders. The illegal gambling market in Greece is estimated to be worth €1.67bn, with significant state revenue losses.
