Weekend Conversation Corner – March, 13
Welcome to the newest version of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, a brief examination of the week’s most significant headlines that have captivated the globe. As we condense the flurry of events into a coherent and focused recap, we will discuss the key stories that have moulded the narrative, impacted policies, and sparked conversations. Join us as we filter through the chaos and provide a concise summary of the week’s crucial advancements, keeping you informed on what truly counts in today’s swiftly changing world.
Stay in the know, stay motivated, and keep gaming on. Wishing you a fantastic weekend ahead!
Calls for tougher protections to prevent minors’ exposure to gambling in Greece
The Hellenic National Committee on Bioethics and Technoethics has raised concerns about the high rates of gambling participation among minors in Greece. The report highlights the increased risk posed by online betting and igaming platforms, especially for adolescents who are constantly exposed to digital communication tools. The committee also addressed the issue of gambling advertising during sports broadcasts and across digital media, emphasising the need for stricter regulations. Recommendations include reducing gambling advertising targeting teenagers, implementing a self-regulatory framework, and integrating user verification to prevent minors from accessing betting sites. The report also mentions the proposed legislation to crack down on illegal gambling in Greece, with stricter measures such as prison terms and closures of businesses involved in illegal activities.
Finland’s state-controlled gambling operator aims to become a global player
Veikkaus, the Finnish state-owned gambling operator, is preparing for competition in online gambling in Finland as its monopoly comes to an end in July 2027. While retaining its monopoly on the national lottery and land-based gambling, Veikkaus plans to expand internationally to adapt to the changing market. The company aims to position itself as a global gaming brand by 2030, transitioning from a national to an international player. However, the specifics of this expansion remain unclear, including whether Veikkaus will focus on B2B offerings or apply for B2C licenses abroad. Despite facing financial challenges in 2025, with a decrease in revenue and profit, Veikkaus continues to prioritise player safety at home. The success of Veikkaus’ international venture and brand outside of Finland remains to be seen.
Spot-the-difference game aims to show British punters how to detect unlicensed gambling sites
The British Gambling Council has launched an online game called Spot The Black Market to educate players on identifying unregulated gambling websites. The interactive quiz challenges users to distinguish between legitimate and black market operators, highlighting how illegal platforms mimic licensed sites. This initiative aims to raise awareness of the dangers of the black market and emphasise the value of the UK’s regulated gambling market in terms of integrity and player safety. The BGC warns that unregulated sites do not contribute to the economy, unlike regulated operators that generate significant tax revenue and support thousands of jobs. Additionally, the BGC has released a statement of principles promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the industry.
Dutch gaming sector sounds warning over decline in tax revenues
Industry representatives in the Netherlands are urging lawmakers to review the country’s gambling tax framework due to a significant decline in tax revenue. The warning, co-signed by trade associations and gambling entities, highlights a €43.5m drop in gambling tax revenues in 2025 compared to the previous year. This decrease is attributed to a tax rate increase implemented in 2024, leading to casino closures and an increase in unlicensed gambling. The Dutch gambling regulator has also expressed concerns about the negative impact of the tax hike. Despite these warnings, the new coalition government has not shown interest in revisiting the tax change, instead focusing on stricter gambling regulations, including a proposed ban on online gambling advertising. The government’s tax committee is set to discuss the issue on March 12.
1 in 6 Swedes have played online casino games, survey finds
The article discusses a survey conducted by Casinofeber in Sweden in 2025, revealing that online gambling was popular. The study included 3,463 participants, with 18 per cent playing online casino games and 24 per cent placing bets online. Slots were the preferred option for casino players, while football was popular among sports bettors. Demographic differences were observed, with more men in the betting group and a balanced gender split in casino gaming. Most participants were in their 30s or 40s and employed full-time. Spending levels were modest, with many reporting monthly costs under SEK99. Issues with licensing knowledge, bonus redemption, and withdrawals were highlighted. Reforms in Swedish gambling legislation are expected following a review of the 2018 Gambling Act. Erik Eldhagen was appointed state secretary for gambling regulation, and a ban on gambling with credit will be implemented in April 2026.
President Lula da Silva vows to ban online casino gaming in Brazil
In a televised address for International Women’s Day, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva announced plans to ban online casino games in Brazil, citing the negative impact on family finances. Lula criticised the contradiction of allowing online games while land-based casinos are prohibited. The president’s decision is seen as politically motivated, with the upcoming presidential elections in October 2026. The gaming industry, represented by the Association of Women in the Gaming Industry (AMIG), criticised Lula’s stance, highlighting the sector’s contribution to job creation and revenue generation in Brazil. The industry association emphasised the strong female participation in the sector and its economic impact. Lula’s call to ban online gambling has sparked debate and opposition within the gaming industry in Brazil.
