Weekend Conversation Corner – September, 25

Welcome to the latest edition of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we offer a brief overview of the week’s top headlines that have captured global interest. As we summarise the key stories that have impacted the narrative, influenced policies, and sparked conversations, we invite you to join us in navigating through the noise to offer a concise snapshot of the week’s important developments. Stay informed, stay inspired, and keep on gaming. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!

Bulgarian gambling reforms include new tax and fee framework, advertising restrictions and real-time monitoring

The Bulgarian government has proposed significant reforms to the country’s gambling sector, including a new tax model, stricter regulations, real-time monitoring, and tighter controls on operators. The reforms aim to increase transparency, boost state revenues, and enhance supervision of the industry. Key changes include higher minimum tax contributions for gambling businesses, real-time reporting to the National Revenue Agency, almost complete advertising bans, and increased funding for education and health programs. The reforms also introduce new rules for foreign gambling companies and responsible gambling contributions. The proposed amendments are open for public consultation until October 23, with a focus on improving transparency, state revenues, and market supervision.

Gambling ban for benefits recipients proposed by UK Conservative Party 

The Conservative Party in the UK plans to ban long-term unemployed individuals from using benefits to purchase alcohol, cigarettes, or gambling products. Those unemployed for over six months could see a 30 per cent reduction in benefits and be issued a restricted “Back to Work” card. This proposal aims to save £538m annually and incentivise employment. However, Labour criticises the plan as unworkable, and anti-poverty advocates warn of increased hardship. Similar bans exist in Brazil and Singapore, and will be implemented in Armenia. The new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, seeks to reduce welfare spending but opposes crude cuts. While considering measures to control gambling, Labour is unlikely to support a card-based system due to concerns of discrimination and technical challenges.

How Malta’s 2018 Gaming Act reshaped igaming

Focus Gaming News explores how Malta’s 2018 Gaming Act transformed the country into a leading licensing jurisdiction for the global igaming industry. The Act streamlined regulations, established B2C and B2B licenses, and solidified Malta’s reputation as a hub for over 500 licensed companies. Operators like Play’n GO and Altenar value the MGA license for its operational discipline and player trust. Looking ahead to 2026, the MGA focuses on crypto-asset controls, player protection, and sports betting integrity to stay competitive. Despite challenges from fragmented regulations and new technologies, Malta’s ecosystem and regulatory framework continue to set global standards in the industry. The article is part of a series marking Focus Gaming News’ tenth anniversary, analysing key developments in the igaming sector from 2016 to 2026.

First licence renewals confirmed ahead of Dutch gambling market’s fifth anniversary

The Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has renewed eight online gambling licenses for operators like TOTO, Bet365, and GG Poker until 2031. The renewal process included stricter scrutiny on compliance records, corrective actions for past breaches, and a new requirement for operators to submit market exit plans. The KSA also renewed state-controlled Lotto BV’s monopoly licenses despite pending legal appeals. The renewal marks a significant milestone for the Dutch market, with no new operators approved yet. The KSA adopted a more detailed assessment process, focusing on compliance history and corrective measures for past breaches. The final list of successful applicants will reveal how many operators choose to continue operating in the market.

Italy weighs ideas to raise more revenue from gambling sector in 2027 budget

Italy’s government is exploring ways to increase revenue from gambling, including extending retail gambling concessions until 2029 to generate €400m-€500m for the 2027 budget. The failure to launch new tenders has already cost the state €1.5bn. Other measures being considered include a €1bn scratch-card tender and an additional Lotto/SuperEnalotto draw to generate €50m annually. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has tasked the Ministry of Economy and Finance with exploring these options. The government aims to address the delayed reorganisation of Italy’s retail gambling network and test new machine requirements. These proposals, including a digital lotto levy, are subject to potential changes before the Budget Law is presented in October 2026.

“By 2030 we will have no betting shops; the high street will be dead,” warns Betfred founder

Fred Done, founder of Betfred, warns that a proposed increase in Machine Game Duty could lead to the demise of high street betting shops in the UK. He predicts that doubling the duty from 20 per cent to 40 per cent could result in the closure of 495 Betfred shops, causing 2,575 job losses and £67m in lost tax revenue. Done emphasises the negative impact of further tax hikes on the industry and urges ministers to consider the consequences. He also highlights the importance of fixed-odds betting terminals to Betfred’s retail business and expresses concerns about the future of sponsorship due to fiscal uncertainty. The UK retail betting sector has been declining, with other companies also facing closures and job losses. The government is set to make decisions on gambling tax changes in the upcoming Autumn Budget on October 28.