Weekend Conversation Corner – July, 17
Welcome to the newest instalment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, a brief look at the top headlines of the week that have captured global interest. We will examine the key stories that have impacted the narrative, influenced decisions, and sparked conversations. Join us as we cut through the chaos to provide a concise summary of the week’s most important developments, keeping you informed on what truly counts in today’s fast-paced world.
Stay updated, stay motivated, and keep playing. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!
US bill proposes facial recognition for sportsbooks and prediction markets
The Facial Recognition to Protect Children Act proposed by Rep. Josh Gottheimer would require online sports betting platforms to use facial recognition technology to verify users’ ages before placing bets. The bill, co-sponsored by several representatives, aims to set a federal standard for age verification, addressing concerns about underage gambling. Gottheimer emphasised the need to prevent children from accessing betting platforms easily. Research shows a significant number of underage boys have gambled, and incidents of underage betting have been reported in states like Tennessee and Iowa. The technology would not store personal data, and advocacy group ParentsRISE supports the measure to safeguard children from predatory betting apps.
UK opens consultation on proposal to ban unlicensed gambling sponsorship in sport
The UK government’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport is considering banning unlicensed gambling sponsorship of sports clubs. The consultation seeks to prohibit deals with operators not licensed by the British Gambling Commission, aiming to protect players, maintain market integrity, and reduce money-laundering risks. Secondary legislation could make such sponsorships a criminal offence, with daily penalties for violations. White label agreements complying with regulations may be exempt. The focus is on in-stadium advertising, with separate plans to address illegal promotions in broadcasts. Stakeholders can provide feedback until September 9 on the potential impact on clubs and leagues before any legislation is presented to Parliament.
Google to ban prediction market extensions from Chrome Web Store
Google will ban browser extensions promoting real-money prediction markets from the Chrome Web Store starting August 1. The updated policies will impact platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket, which offer real-time contract prices and order placement tools. Simulated products without cash prizes will still be allowed if clearly stated. Google aims to maintain user trust by enforcing stricter data collection rules and clarifying boundaries around prediction markets. Developers must disclose data usage and any changes to users. This move coincides with increased regulatory scrutiny on prediction markets in the US and globally. Google Finance’s display of odds from Kalshi and Polymarket remains unaffected by the new policy.
EGBA report shows continued growth in European online gaming revenue
The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has released its Annual Activity Report for 2025, highlighting a successful year for online gambling operators in Europe. Despite challenges like increased taxation and regulatory restrictions, members saw a 34 per cent increase in online gross gaming revenue (GGR) to €18bn. The report includes aggregated market data from nine operator members, showing growth in online gaming. EGBA members held 401 online gaming licenses across 22 jurisdictions, with €275.3bn in wagers. Casino games generated 48 per cent of GGR, sports betting 46 per cent, and other categories 6 per cent. Customer winnings increased, but the return to player rate dropped slightly. The report also mentions sustainability efforts, tax contributions, and new initiatives like the European standard on markers of harm. EGBA welcomed new members and highlighted achievements in promoting responsible gambling and regulation in Europe.
Gambling Financial Risk Assessments questioned by UK parliamentary committee
The Culture, Media and Sport Committee has requested information from the Gambling Commission regarding the introduction of Financial Risk Assessments (FRAs) for gamblers in the UK. The committee seeks clarification on the evidence base, methodology, and stakeholder engagement behind the decision. They have posed five questions to the regulator, including inquiries about the publication of data and the impact on recreational bettors. The committee also questions the implementation process and the lack of representation from the horseracing industry. The deadline for response is July 24. Industry stakeholders have criticised the decision, with concerns raised about the reliability and impact of the assessments. The British Horseracing Association has expressed strong opposition, calling the measure “self-harm on an immense scale” with damaging economic and societal implications.
5 Leaders – 1 Question: What are the real chances of land-based casinos being legalised in Brazil?
In the latest edition of “5 Leaders – 1 Question”, Focus Gaming News asked five key figures in Brazil’s gaming industry – Alex W. Pariente, Plínio Lemos Jorge, Magnho José, Rafael Marchetti Marcondes and Alessandro Valente – about the real chances of land‑based casinos being legalised in Brazil over the next few years.
Together, they describe a market where online betting has already proven its fiscal and institutional value, but where land‑based casinos remain blocked more by politics than economics: an election‑year calendar, reputational damage from years of poorly regulated online activity, and resistance from conservative and religious blocs all make a 2026 vote unlikely. Several interviewees point to 2027 and beyond as the true “window”, especially if the Supreme Federal Court revisits Brazil’s 1940s criminal ban on games of chance and fiscal arguments – with estimates of more than R$20bn in annual revenue – gain weight, while others stress Brazil’s status as a regional exception and argue that a regulated casino framework is ultimately the most responsible path for jobs, tax collection, tourism and player protection.
Each instalment of “5 Leaders – 1 Question” will address a different strategic issue for the gambling and igaming sector – every week on Focus Gaming News, one new question and five leaders sharing their views on the most relevant developments in the market.
