Weekend Conversation Corner – June, 12
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. By summarising the key stories that have influenced discussions, policies, and narratives, we aim to bring you a clear and focused perspective on the latest developments. Join us as we sift through the noise to bring you a condensed summary of the critical events of the week, keeping you informed about what truly matters in today’s fast-changing world.
Stay informed, stay inspired, and keep gaming on. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!
Gambling licensing seen as “most important cultural political issue” for Norway’s Progress Party
Himanshu Gulati, from the Progress Party in Norway, has reiterated the party’s commitment to ending the state monopoly on gambling. He believes that a change in government could lead to a shift towards a licensing model. Gulati criticised the current assumptions about gambling harms and revenue, calling for a debate on gambling policy. The Progress Party has advocated for a regulated licensing system since 2021, aiming to change the current state-controlled gambling landscape dominated by Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto. Despite opposition from dominant political parties and regional authorities, there are voices, like Gulati’s, calling for an end to the monopoly system. The article highlights the ongoing debate surrounding gambling regulations in Norway and the potential for change in the future.
Portuguese government promises measures to tackle illegal gambling
The Minister of Economy in Portugal, Manuel Castro Almeida, has announced plans to introduce legislation to address unlicensed online gambling. He emphasised the need for oversight, sanctions, prevention, and raising awareness of the dangers of illegal gambling. Stakeholders are invited to propose ideas to combat this issue. The government aims to update regulations and tackle the growing problem of unlicensed gambling, which is valued at €24bn in Portugal. A new awareness campaign involving various organisations has been launched to educate the public, especially young audiences, on safe gambling practices. The campaign will focus on the risks of illegal online gambling, including fraudulent schemes. Additionally, a new platform for self-exclusion from online gambling has been introduced by the gaming regulator in Portugal.
Finland’s online gambling licensing window attracts almost 50 applications
The National Police Board in Finland has received nearly 50 applications for online gambling licenses since the process opened on March 1. The majority of applicants are international operators, leading to increased complexity in the evaluation process. The board aims to complete reviews within six months, prioritising the reliability and suitability of applicants. The regulated online gaming market is set to open in July 2027, ending Veikkaus’s monopoly. Details on advertising, bonuses, and player protection are still pending. Speculation surrounds the potential sale of Veikkaus, which is being split into two companies. Political divisions exist on the future control of these entities.
UK betting and gaming operators propose five-point to tackle black market
The Betting and Gaming Council has proposed a five-point plan to protect the regulated British gambling sector from illegal competition. The plan includes measures such as shutting down illegal gambling advertising, blocking illegal websites, and imposing penalties on enablers. The council urges collaboration among lawmakers, regulators, technology companies, and financial institutions to combat the black market. Chief Executive Grainne Hurst warns that failure to act could lead to significant consumer harm and calls for tougher criminal sanctions against illegal operators. The council emphasises the need for immediate action to prevent the projected rise in stakes with illegal operators. While welcoming the government’s efforts, the council stresses the importance of concrete action to disrupt illegal operators and safeguard consumers.
Greek government lays out proposed overhaul of gambling regulations
The Greek government is introducing new legislation to combat illegal gambling, making Greece the first European nation to do so. The proposed bill includes measures to strengthen the Hellenic Gaming Commission, increase penalties for illegal gambling organisers, and impose fines on those promoting unauthorised gambling services. The bill also introduces a new tax regime for online gaming winnings. The government aims to tackle the economic threat posed by illegal gambling, which drains billions from the Greek economy annually. The legislation aims to cut off the black market, increase oversight on licensed operators, and enhance responsible gambling programs. The bill is open for public consultation until June 15 before being submitted for parliamentary approval.
5 Leaders – 1 Question: Taxes in LatAm and the challenge of the illegal gambling markets
In the latest edition of the special series “5 Leaders – 1 Question” sees Focus Gaming News ask five key figures in LatAm’s industry (Carlos Fonseca Sarmiento, CEO of Gaming LatAm; Miguel Ángel Ochoa Sánchez, president of the Asociación de Permisionarios y Proveedores de la Industria del Entertenimiento y Juegos de Apuesta en México (AIEJA); Cecilia Valdés, president of the Asociación Chilena de Casinos de Juego (ACCJ); Tatiana María Vásquez, a lawyer specialising in gambling regulation and partner at Vásquez & Asociados; and Ramiro Atucha, founder of Atucha Advisory): Are the recent increases in gambling taxes in LatAm strengthening the regulated market or pushing players back to the illegal market? What tax rate represents the right balance in Latin America – enough for public revenue without making regulated operators uncompetitive against offshore sites?
They debate the right balance of taxation to ensure public revenue without making regulated operators uncompetitive against offshore sites. Carlos Fonseca Sarmiento highlights that excessive taxes can strengthen the illegal market, while Miguel Ángel Ochoa Sánchez emphasises the need for proportional and equitable taxation. Cecilia Valdés stresses the importance of stability and predictability in tax regulations. Tatiana María Vásquez advocates for taxing real income to ensure market competitiveness. Ramiro Atucha warns that high taxes can subsidise the illegal market. Overall, the experts agree that finding the right fiscal balance is crucial for the industry’s sustainability and growth.
