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The gambling industry never slows down, and this past week was no exception. The industry saw big moves in compliance and business strategy. The UK Gambling Commission made a decision to drop a long-standing financial requirement for operators, while YouTube cracked down on gambling content. On the business side, Entain reported solid revenue growth despite facing steep regulatory costs, and Habanero expanded into Denmark. We saw new partnerships with the tech world, and responsible gambling efforts continued to evolve. Here are the industry updates from last week.
Regulatory & Legal Updates
- UK Gambling Commission Removes Annual Contribution Requirement, Popall
The UK Gambling Commission announced that starting March 31, 2025, licensees will no longer be required to make annual financial contributions to research, prevention, and treatment organizations under SR Code 3.1.1. This shift aligns with the new statutory levy system based on gross gambling yield data.
- YouTube Imposes Strict Policies on Gambling Content, IGT
YouTube announced stricter policies on online gambling content as part of its effort to protect viewers from harmful material. Starting March 19, content that will intentionally direct viewers to unapproved gambling sites will not be allowed. - Estonia Revises Gambling Act, YOGONET
The Ministry of Finance of Estonia plans updates to the Gambling Act of 2008. While amendments aim to modernize the framework, they are not expected to tighten gambling laws significantly.
- European Regulators Combat Identity Theft, SBC Eurasia
Spain’s Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ), in collaboration with other European regulators, has launched initiatives to address online gambling identity theft. These measures aim to improve player security across the continent.
Financial Performance & Business Moves
- Habanero Secures Danish License, Gambling News
Game provider Habanero has obtained a Danish license as part of its global expansion strategy. This is a major victory in its efforts to penetrate regulated European markets.
- Entain Reports FY24 Results, Entain Group
Entain reported strong growth in FY24 despite challenges from regulatory changes and competition. Net gaming revenue increased by 7% year-on-year to £5.16 billion. However, the group faced a loss after tax of £461 million due to impairments related to regulatory adjustments.
- MightyTips Partners with FruityKing, European Gaming
In the UK, MightyTips has entered into a partnership with FruityKing Casino, signaling increased collaboration between affiliates and operators in the region.
- FDJ Rebrands Amid Profit Decline, Gambling Insider
French lottery operator FDJ reported a 6.2% drop in net profit for FY24 and announced a rebranding to FDJ United. The company wants to modernize its image and address challenges in the competitive European market.
Technology & Innovation in Gambling
- Light & Wonder Partners with Warner Bros, Gambling Insider
Light & Wonder announced a partnership with Warner Bros. and BetMGM to bring branded iGaming experiences to online platforms. Another collaboration in the growing trend of integrating popular entertainment franchises into gambling products.
- GR8 Tech Partners with Betting Software, SBC Eurasia
GR8 Tech partnered with Betting Software (BSW) to supply its Sportsbook iFrame Solution. “Our clients will gain access to a superior solution that effortlessly enhances their sportsbook offerings to the fullest,” said Bulat Fakhrutdinov, Head of Partnerships at BSW.
- Altenar Sings a Deal with MerkurXtip, Altenar
Altenar signed a deal with MerkurXtip for a fully managed sportsbook platform. “The Merkur Group is a fantastic business with real heritage across the industry. To be trusted to take their brand forward in the Czech market is a testament to the quality of product and service that Altenar provides today across numerous regulated markets,” said Sam Hill, Altenar’s Sales Director.
Responsible Gambling & Player Protection
- Paf Lowers Loss Limits for Customers, Paf
Nordic operator Paf has reduced mandatory loss limits for all players, reinforcing its commitment to responsible gambling practices. This move aligns with broader industry efforts to prioritize player protection.
- GambleAware Appoints New Chair, GambleAware
Andy Boucher has been named Chair of Trustees at GambleAware, a renewed focus on leadership in promoting safer gambling initiatives across the UK. “GambleAware has a key role during this transition period and I will continue build on this and help unify the voice of organisations involved in gambling harm prevention within the new world,” said Mr. Boucher.
- Alan Evans discusses a physicist’s tactic to get a 20% advantage at roulette tables, Casinos.com on X
- Illegal gambling and betting sector in India exceeds $100bn annually, growing at 30% rate, Digital India Foundation on LinkedIn
- Massive changes in gambling licenses and regulations are happening right now—and even bigger ones are coming, MGL on LinkedIn
- New Research Alert: Sports Gambling & Alcohol-Related Risks, International Center for Responsible Gambling on LinkedIn
Stories from iGaming Forums
- Bitcoin Penguin is Closing, GPWA Forum
- OceanAffiliates Migration to BitPartners, GPWA Forum
Keep up with news and trends in the iGaming industry. Gambling ‘N Go provides a recap each week. Join our spam-free newsletter to stay ahead. We are a GPWA approved portal that supports responsible gambling. Check out our guides for beginners and experts to find trusted and reliable games, avoid scams, and responsible gambling practices.
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