Weekend Conversation Corner – April, 10
Welcome to the newest issue 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, focused recap, we will discuss the significant stories that have influenced the conversation, shaped policies, and sparked debates. Join us as we cut through the clutter and provide a concise review of the week’s important developments, keeping you informed on what truly counts in today’s ever-changing world.
Stay informed, stay motivated, and keep gaming. Have a fantastic weekend!
Ohio lawmakers propose sports betting restrictions
The Save Ohio Sports Act, introduced by state lawmakers, aims to impose restrictions on sports betting in Ohio. The bill would limit wager amounts, ban mobile betting, and prohibit certain types of bets, like prop bets and in-game wagers. Players would be restricted to $100 per wager, and only allowed to place eight wagers in a 24-hour period at authorised casinos. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine supported the removal of prop bets from legal betting options, following an investigation involving two Cleveland Guardians pitchers. The proposed legislation seeks to enhance consumer protection and regulate the sports betting industry in Ohio.
Italy’s World Cup debacle intensifies calls for an end of gambling ad ban
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has initiated an investigation into the governance and funding of Italian football, following the national team’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The defeat has led to calls for the ban on gambling ads and sponsorships in Italy to be lifted. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has faced criticism, resulting in the resignation of its president, Gabriele Gravina, and other key figures. There is growing recognition of a funding shortfall in Italian sports, with proposals to restore financial sustainability by allowing gambling sponsorship. The Dignity Decree of 2018, which banned gambling adverts, is being questioned for its impact on Italian football’s revenue. Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi has proposed lifting the ban on gambling sponsorship in sport, but progress has been slow. The future of Italian football funding and governance remains uncertain.
Latvian gambling regulator disbanded
Latvia’s Lotteries and Gambling Supervisory Inspection has been dissolved, with its regulatory duties now under the State Revenue Service. This restructuring aims to streamline regulation, particularly in the growing online gambling sector. The State Revenue Service has set up divisions for licensing, compliance, and inspections to ensure control. In neighbouring countries, Estonia has started reducing gambling tax rates, while Lithuania is considering mandatory player cards for gambling. These changes reflect a trend towards modernising and adapting gambling regulations in the Baltic region.
The evolution of the European igaming market: from monopolies to a regulated industry
The article discusses the evolution of the European igaming industry over the past decade, highlighting the shift towards more robust regulatory frameworks in various countries. It explores how countries like Italy, Spain, Germany, Greece, Finland, and Malta have adapted their regulations to meet the demands of the growing industry. The role of the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) in driving harmonisation and the challenges of illegal markets, regulatory inconsistencies, and unresolved advertising issues are also addressed. Insights from industry operators shed light on the operational challenges and opportunities presented by the changing regulatory landscape. The article concludes by emphasising the progress made in institution-building and regulatory cooperation in Europe, marking it as a significant achievement in the igaming sector.
Malta to streamline igaming tax framework
Gambling companies in Malta will face changes to VAT and gaming tax starting October 1, 2026. The Malta Tax and Customs Administration and Malta Gaming Authority announced reforms to create a clearer and more predictable tax framework for operators. Amendments to the VAT Act will clarify exemptions for gambling suppliers, ensuring taxation at the place of consumption. Gaming tax regulations will be simplified and consolidated into a single structure for both land-based and online operators. These changes aim to strengthen Malta’s fiscal resilience and regulatory clarity, while maintaining competitiveness in the gaming sector. The government is also considering regulating prediction platforms in Malta to address the sector’s potential as either a gambling or a financial one.
Dutch gambling regulator publishes new guidance on duty of care issues
The Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has released new studies and guidance on the duty of care for online gambling licence holders. The studies focus on personal interviews with players suspected of excessive gambling behaviour, and the registration process for the Central Register for Exclusion from Gambling (CRUKS). The KSA has provided new guidelines based on feedback from license holders to clarify implementation practices. The regulator emphasised the importance of advising players to register with CRUKS if signs of problematic gambling behaviour are observed. The guidance aims to provide clarity on existing obligations to ensure safer gambling practices. Additionally, the KSA recently reminded licensed sports betting operators of the limits of their licences after discovering non-sports bets being offered. Operators were instructed to remove these offerings to comply with regulations.
Gibraltar licenses first prediction markets operator in potentially controversial move
The Gibraltar Government has granted a licence to a prediction markets operator, making it one of the few European jurisdictions to regulate such platforms. The move aims to diversify Gibraltar’s gambling and financial services ecosystem. The licensed company, Predict Street Ltd, is now listed as a licensed betting intermediary and is associated with the FIFA World Cup 2026. This decision comes amidst concerns about the impact of the rise in UK Remote Gaming Tax on Gibraltar’s economy. While prediction markets have faced controversy in Europe, Gibraltar’s move contrasts with other countries like Germany and France that have banned certain platforms. The future of prediction markets in Gibraltar remains uncertain, with potential interest from existing igaming operators and international players like Kalshi and Polymarket. The UK’s regulatory stance may also impact the operations of Gibraltar-licensed operators targeting British consumers.
