Weekend Conversation Corner – February, 27
Welcome to the newest instalment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, a brief analysis of the week’s top headlines that have captured global interest. As we break down the flurry of events into a coherent and focused recap, we will delve into the key stories that have moulded the narrative, impacted policies, and sparked conversations. Join us as we cut through the clutter and provide a concise summary of the week’s significant advancements, keeping you updated on what truly counts in today’s fast-paced world.
Stay informed, stay motivated, and keep gaming. Wishing you a fantastic weekend ahead!
Greek bill proposes tougher measures on illegal gambling
The new bill in Greece aims to combat illegal gambling with tougher penalties, including prison terms and business closures. Developed in collaboration with the Hellenic Gaming Commission, the legislation allows municipalities to shut down venues hosting illegal gambling and revoke their licenses. Internet cafes, often associated with unlicensed gambling, will face stricter regulations. Offenders could face up to ten years in prison and fines up to €100,000. Individuals caught playing unlicensed games risk prison time and fines, with repeat offenders facing harsher penalties. The government aims to tackle a black market estimated at over €1.6bn annually, with nearly 800,000 people participating in illegal gambling in 2024. The EEEP’s blacklist of unauthorised online platforms includes close to 11,000 sites.
British regulator takes “tentative first step” towards crypto gambling
The UK Gambling Commission is considering regulating crypto gambling due to increased demand. Executive director Tim Miller mentioned proposed legislative changes and the potential for using cryptoassets in gambling. The Commission aims to explore this possibility while addressing challenges and risks. Miller also highlighted efforts to combat unlicensed gambling and involve social media firms in enforcement. He emphasised the importance of innovation in consumer protection and hinted at a more industry-friendly approach by the Commission. Despite ongoing compliance efforts, the Commission seeks to support innovation while maintaining regulatory standards. The focus is on balancing enforcement with encouraging consumer-focused innovation in the gambling industry.
Entain CEO urges end to “Premier League’s complicity” in illegal gambling
Stella David, CEO of Ladbrokes and Coral owner Entain, has urged the Premier League to take immediate action against clubs promoting unlicensed gambling operators. She emphasised the risks of visibility for unlicensed operators in British football and called for a ban on sponsorship and advertising deals with them. This comes in light of the UK government’s plans to consult on banning sports sponsorship by operators without Gambling Commission licenses. David highlighted the rise of black market gambling in the UK and urged the Premier League to act swiftly, rather than waiting for formal bans. The Premier League has already agreed to a voluntary ban on front-of-shirt gambling sponsorship, but David aims to push for further action. She emphasised the need for leadership in promoting responsible gambling practices in sports.
Brazil prepares for launch of first prediction market offering
The B3 stock exchange in Brazil plans to launch prediction markets after receiving authorisation from the CVM. Initially, only investors with assets exceeding R$10m will be allowed to participate. The vice-president of B3, Luiz Masagão, sees this as a way to attract new investors and evolve their investments. Prediction markets, popular in the US, have faced regulatory challenges in other countries like the UK, the Netherlands, Australia, and New Zealand. The Dutch regulator has fined Polymarket for operating without a license, while UK authorities have clarified the legal status of prediction markets. Despite these challenges, the B3 stock exchange remains committed to launching prediction markets in the first half of the year.
Dutch gambling regulator clarifies far-reaching extent of ban on influencer advertising
The Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has clarified that the ban on using role models in gambling advertising also applies to bloggers, streamers, and online influencers. The ban aims to protect vulnerable groups, particularly young adults. The KSA emphasised that all individuals with a public profile can be considered role models if their reach is significant enough for recruitment and advertising purposes. The regulator urged gambling providers to end any collaborations with influencers and online personalities promoting online games of chance. Additionally, concerns were raised about the normalisation of gambling behaviour in Dutch society, with 24 per cent of people indicating that gambling is seen as normal in their social circles. Men were found to be more likely to view gambling as normal compared to women, with 18 per cent of respondents stating that gambling is an easy way to make money quickly.
Sweden confirms ban on gambling with credit
The Riksdag in Sweden has approved an expansion of the ban on offering gambling credit to prevent debt among gamblers. The new law, effective from May 1, 2026, prohibits licensees and gaming agents from financing gambling with credit. Operators must block credit card payments and take measures to discourage credit-funded gambling. The regulation applies to all licensed gambling forms, with exemptions possible for public benefit operators. Municipal lotteries are not affected. Spelinspektionen, the Swedish gambling regulator, advises licensees to review their operations for compliance.
France launches a regulatory framework for Web3 gambling-like games
The French gambling regulator, Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), has introduced a new framework called Jeux à Objets Numériques Monétisables (JONUM) to oversee games with monetisable digital objects. This three-year pilot program aims to regulate blockchain-based gaming mechanics, prohibiting cash prizes and implementing age verification for players. Operators must also adhere to responsible gambling measures and provide detailed reporting to the ANJ. France’s move distinguishes it as one of the first jurisdictions to create a specific regulatory framework for such games, unlike Belgium, which banned loot boxes or the UK, which opted for industry self-regulation. Polish lawmakers are also considering amendments to classify games with virtual goods as gambling, requiring licenses for companies offering these mechanics.
