Weekend Conversation Corner – September, 18

Welcome to the newest instalment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we delve into the week’s top headlines that have captured global interest. We will break down the key stories that have impacted the conversation, shaped policies, and sparked debates. Join us as we cut through the clutter to provide a concise overview of the week’s significant events, keeping you informed on what truly counts in our ever-changing world.

Stay informed, stay motivated, and keep on gaming. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!

Belgian gambling revenue continues to rise, but minimum age hike hits first-time player numbers

The Belgian gambling regulator, Kansspelcommissie, reported a rise in gross gambling revenue in Belgium in 2025. Online gambling revenue from licensed operators reached €965m, accounting for 59 per cent of the regulated market. However, the number of first-time players decreased by 43.1 per cent, possibly due to the increase in the minimum legal gambling age to 21. Despite this, engagement among existing players remained strong. The report also noted a decline in land-based gambling participation, with casino revenue increasing but gaming arcade revenue falling. Self-exclusion requests rose, with 66,998 recorded in 2025. Player protection measures were strengthened, with operators required to verify customers against the Excluded Persons Information System. The trade association, BAGO, expressed concerns about migration to unregulated sites and called for stronger consumer protection measures.

How UK gambling reforms reshaped the remote market

Focus Gaming News explores how the 2024 gambling reforms in the UK have transformed the remote gaming market, emphasising player protection and compliance. The reforms include financial vulnerability checks, maximum stakes for online slots, restrictions on game features, and real-time monitoring of gambling activity. The UK Gambling Commission will assess the impacts of these reforms in 2026. The changes have reshaped how operators and suppliers approach player protection and compliance, positioning the UK as a regulatory benchmark for Europe. The industry has responded positively to the reforms, with a focus on innovation and responsible gaming. The UK’s regulatory framework is seen as a global benchmark, leading the way in player protection. The future of UK gambling regulation will depend on demonstrating economic value while fostering innovation and collaboration between regulators and industry stakeholders. The Commission is evaluating the reforms’ impact and will continue to monitor and evaluate future changes.

US House committee advances proposal to reinstate full tax deduction of gambling losses

The House Ways and Means Committee has approved a bipartisan tax package that includes the FULL HOUSE Act, aiming to restore the 100 per cent deduction of gambling losses eliminated by Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This measure would reverse the provision limiting deductions to 90 per cent, potentially taxing gamblers on income they never earned. The American Gaming Association supports this move to prevent taxing gamblers on “phantom income.” Representatives Horsford and Titus have been advocating for the full deduction restoration. The proposal now moves to the House floor for further consideration. Bill Miller, President of the American Gaming Association, emphasised the importance of passing the FULL HOUSE Act to protect consumers and ensure fair taxation in the gambling industry.

Illegal gambling in Europe has tripled in six years, Euromat study suggests

The study by the European Gaming and Amusement Federation (Euromat) reveals that the illegal gambling market in Europe has tripled in size since 2020, now valued at €12bn. This growth is attributed to limited consumer choice, low visibility, and interventionist government policies. The report warns that illegal operators are gaining market share and pose a threat to the regulated gambling industry. Euromat president Jason Frost highlights the link between illegal gambling and organised crime, while Helios project lead Filip Jelavić emphasises the importance of consumer protection policies to prevent players from turning to the black market. The study calls for stricter regulation to combat the rise of illegal gambling and protect vulnerable consumers.

Researchers call for complete gambling advertising ban in Britain

The article discusses the call by the Local Health and Global Profits (LHGP) consortium to expand the proposed ban on unlicensed gambling sponsorship to include all gambling advertising across all channels. The consortium argues that exposure to gambling advertising is linked to higher participation and gambling-related harms. They urge the government to implement a fixed start date before the 2027/28 football season and emphasise the need for broader action to reduce gambling-related harm. The article also highlights the concerns raised by the consortium regarding the shift of marketing expenditure by gambling companies to alternative channels when restrictions are imposed. The LHGP consortium recommends extending restrictions to online and digital advertising platforms to address these issues. Dr Nason Maani, Deputy Director of LHGP, stresses the importance of not delaying the implementation of the proposed ban on unlicensed sponsorship.

Belarusian president expresses frustration at visibility of gambling advertising

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has called for a review of the country’s gambling advertising rules due to public backlash. He criticised the widespread visibility of a popular game called “spin the goose” and expressed concern over the country turning into a casino. Despite reassurances from his chief of staff that the market operates within regulations, Lukashenko emphasised the need to address public concerns and examine the industry’s financial impact. He directed officials to assess the market thoroughly and develop concrete proposals for action to ensure the state’s interests are protected. The president’s remarks also targeted specific gambling operators and the mayor of Minsk, highlighting the need for stricter regulation in the sector.