Weekend Conversation Corner – May, 15
Welcome to the newest 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. As we distil the flurry of events into a concise summary, we will highlight the key stories that have shaped the conversation, influenced policies, and sparked discussions. Join us as we cut through the noise and offer a concise look at the week’s significant developments, keeping you informed about what truly counts in today’s fast-changing world.
Stay informed, stay inspired, and keep gaming on. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!
French regulator flags “concerning” findings from new European-first gambling risk algorithm
The French gambling regulator, Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), has developed a new algorithm to measure problem gambling in France. The algorithm identified around 600,000 players with a high likelihood of excessive gambling, representing 8.7 per cent of France’s online gambling population. High-risk players were responsible for 60 per cent of operators’ gross gaming revenue. The algorithm categorises gamblers into four groups based on their risk level. Despite improvements in identifying excessive gamblers, the regulator believes more efforts are needed. The ANJ president emphasised the importance of operators continuing to identify problem gamblers and implementing measures to address the issue. The algorithm is part of ANJ’s strategy to reduce excessive and pathological gambling in France. The regulator has also warned operators against aggressive marketing campaigns ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
US commercial gaming revenue reaches record US$78.6bn in 2025
The US commercial gaming industry saw record revenue of $78.62bn in 2025, driven by sports betting and igaming. Direct gaming tax contributions rose by 12.3 per cent to $17.86bn. Traditional casino gaming remained the largest revenue segment, with $51.06bn generated from slot machines and table games. Land-based casinos in Las Vegas and other markets maintained their positions, while Resorts World New York City led in revenue. Commercial sports betting revenue increased by 22.6 per cent, reaching $16.89bn, and igaming revenue surpassed $10bn. Pennsylvania led in igaming revenue, surpassing land-based casino revenue. Maine was the only state to approve igaming legislation in 2025. Regulators cracked down on illegal gambling, with 16 states taking action against prediction market platforms and sweepstakes gaming platforms. Illegal gambling operations were estimated to generate $53.9bn annually, leading to significant lost state tax revenue.
Malta gambling regulator launches consultation on AI Gaming Charter
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has introduced a consultation for igaming licensees on the AI Gaming Charter, developed in collaboration with the Malta Digital Innovation Authority (MDIA). The charter aims to promote ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence in the gaming sector, offering voluntary guidance on integrating AI in customer service, marketing, compliance, and fraud prevention. It complements existing legal frameworks like the EU Artificial Intelligence Act, recognising the widespread use of AI in processes like customer interaction, marketing, player activity monitoring, and game design. The MGA emphasises the importance of addressing bias and supervising AI systems. The consultation coincides with discussions on regulating prediction markets in Malta.
British Gambling Commission to target illegal land-based gambling for “first time in a serious way”
The British Gambling Commission plans to tighten enforcement against gaming machines and illegal land-based gambling with new government funding of £26m. The regulator will focus on addressing illegal land-based gambling and collaborate with law enforcement. A new senior position, Head of Illegal Markets, will lead investigations and enforcement actions. Operators must remove non-compliant gaming machines immediately. Collaboration with the bingo sector has led to revised statistics showing that 3.3 per cent of adults play bingo, with only 1.2 per cent attending clubs. Bingo generated £816m in Gross Gambling Yield, with two-thirds from land-based bingo. Outgoing Bingo Association CEO Miles Baron was praised, and Nicole Garrett was welcomed as his successor. The regulator aims for safer, fairer, and crime-free gambling through partnerships with compliant operators.
Connecticut lawmakers approve new betting rules and prediction market review
Connecticut lawmakers have approved new measures for sports betting, including stricter integrity rules, advertising restrictions on college campuses, and a study on prediction markets’ impact. House Bill 5229 introduces requirements for operators and a statewide study on prediction markets. Senate Bill 296 aims to strengthen sports betting integrity by penalising offences like match-fixing. The debate also involves legal battles over prediction market regulation. Senator Richard Blumenthal criticised the industry for targeting losing bettors and highlighted the negative effects of gambling on personal relationships. Lawmakers removed a proposed restriction on withdrawal requests, citing operational burdens. The bills now await Governor Ned Lamont’s approval. The industry faces scrutiny for aggressive marketing tactics and potential harm to vulnerable individuals.
