You are here: Home / Archives for Gambling News

Italy Introduces Comprehensive Online Gambling Licensing Regime

Italy-launches-online-betting-and-gaming-licence-processItaly has officially launched a new licensing framework for online gambling, finalizing the first phase of its gambling sector reorganization in 2024. The new licensing structure, which was documented in the EU’s Official Journal, enables operators to obtain nine-year concessions at a significantly higher fee of €7 million per license. This initiative reflects Italy’s effort to modernize its gambling regulations and align with European standards.

This framework follows an extended standstill period due to objections raised by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) regarding B2B compliance. Despite these delays, the European Commission (EC) approved key changes sought by Italy’s Ministry of Finance (MEF) and Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM), allowing the restructured system to move forward.

Licensing Requirements and Financial Provisions

Operators looking to apply must meet strict criteria, including maintaining a legal or operational headquarters within the European Economic Area (EEA), possessing valid licenses, and achieving at least €3 million in total revenues over the past two years. Each operator can apply for up to five licenses, with payments split into two installments: €4 million upon concession award and €3 million upon the launch of operations.

Additionally, operators must adhere to financial guarantees, starting with a €750,000 provisional deposit and a final guarantee of €3.7 million. Beyond these, a fixed annual operating fee of 3% applies. To support anti-corruption measures, applicants must pay a €560 fee to Italy’s National Anti-Corruption Authority (ANAC).

Applications for concessions are open until May 30, 2025, with the evaluation process expected to last nine months. Authorities predict approximately 50 operators will apply, generating an estimated €350 million in initial revenue and an additional €100 million annually through fixed concession fees.

Regulatory and Operational Enhancements

The ADM is planning the second phase of reforms in 2025, focusing on resolving conflicts in land-based gambling regulations and revising the controversial Dignity Decree, which banned gambling advertising and sponsorships in 2019. ADM Director General Roberto Alesse criticized the decree as “economically damaging” and anticipates reforms that balance consumer protection, economic growth, and regulatory oversight.

The second phase will also standardize gambling laws nationwide, addressing illegal gambling and ensuring better protections for consumers. The ADM views these reforms as an opportunity to position Italy as a leader in European gambling legislation.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the ambitious plans, Italy’s gambling reforms face challenges, including declining tax revenues, which fell 6% in 2023 to €11.62 billion. Projections indicate further declines in 2024, prompting the need for efficient implementation of the new framework.

The framework has also sparked concerns from smaller operators over the increased licensing fees and stricter requirements. These measures, combined with limitations on branding and platform flexibility, may lead to further consolidation within the market.

Furthermore, anomalies in online gambling behaviors, particularly in smaller municipalities, are under scrutiny. A recent study in Calliano revealed disproportionately high per capita gambling expenditures, highlighting the need for targeted municipal regulations to mitigate potential societal impacts.

A New Era for Italy’s Gambling Industry

With the approval of the licensing framework, Italy is setting the stage for a more structured and transparent online gambling market. As the ADM finalizes its response to the MGA’s concerns, the extended standstill period offers an opportunity to refine the system further.

As Roberto Alesse noted, “In a liberal state, legal gambling cannot endure excessive prohibitions. We must adapt national standards to those required by Europe.” By implementing balanced regulations, Italy aims to stimulate economic activity, enhance consumer protections, and address illegal gambling effectively.

Source:

Italy Launches New Licensing Framework for Online Gambling, lcb.org, December 19, 2024.

The post Italy Introduces Comprehensive Online Gambling Licensing Regime appeared first on Casino News Daily.

Filed Under: Gambling News Tagged With: , , , , , ,

European Casino Association Calls for Action with 2025 Manifesto

European-Casino-Association-manifesto-seeks-support-of-new-European-CommissionThe European Casino Association (ECA) has released its 2025 manifesto, urging the European Union (EU) to collaborate on advancing the success of Europe’s casino industry. The manifesto comes at a pivotal moment with the new European Commission taking office under President Ursula von der Leyen. It marks the beginning of a fresh five-year term that will shape the future of EU gambling policies.

A Unified Call for Support, Protection, and Promotion

The ECA’s manifesto outlines a clear framework for the coming years, built on three central pillars: support, protect, and promote. These pillars reflect the core goals of the ECA as it seeks to contribute to both the growth of the EU’s gambling sector and its broader economic success.

  • Support: The ECA is committed to assisting EU institutions in ensuring a safe, regulated environment for gambling. It highlights the growing threat of illegal gambling operators, which not only evade taxes but also fuel criminal activity. According to the manifesto, these illegal operations cost the EU €10 billion in lost tax revenue annually.
  • Protect: The association underscores its commitment to consumer safety, ensuring that the gambling industry remains trustworthy and accountable. The ECA supports the responsible gaming initiatives and fair play regulations to safeguard players across Europe.
  • Promote: The ECA advocates for fostering economic growth by creating jobs, supporting local communities, and contributing to national and EU GDP. The association argues that legal, licensed operators have a pivotal role in sustaining economic competitiveness within Europe, providing a strong contrast to the impact of illegal operators who drain resources from EU member states.

Combating Illegal Gambling and Enhancing EU Competitiveness

The most pressing issue addressed in the manifesto is the threat of illegal gambling, which is rapidly growing across Europe. The ECA estimates that the illegal sector contributes up to €32 billion in unlicensed online gaming revenue. This not only damages the reputation of licensed operators but also poses risks to consumer safety, as illegal providers do not adhere to the necessary checks and safeguards.

The ECA is calling on the EU and member states to reinforce their commitment to combating illegal gambling by enhancing enforcement of anti-money laundering (AML) measures. They also urge policymakers to ensure that all gambling services are operated within national legal frameworks, emphasizing the need for regulatory uniformity across the EU.

Furthermore, the manifesto stresses the importance of ensuring fair competition in the market, advocating for a fairer approach to taxation and financial regulations for the land-based casino sector, which has long been overshadowed by illicit operations.

The Manifesto and Its Reception by Lawmakers

The manifesto has already made waves in the EU, with various lawmakers responding to the association’s calls for action. While some have supported the initiative, others have raised concerns about the impact of the level 2 AML risk classification for land-based casinos, which is set to be reviewed in the upcoming European Commission assessment. Despite differing opinions, the general consensus appears to favor stricter regulation of the gambling sector to protect consumers and ensure fair practices.

ECA Chair Erwin van Lambaart expressed strong optimism about the reform, stating: “This manifesto reflects our commitment to supporting EU efforts in regulating and promoting a safe, responsible gambling environment. We urge EU policymakers to work with us in eliminating illegal gambling and fostering a more secure and competitive marketplace.”

A Strategic Shift for the Gambling Sector

The ECA’s manifesto serves as a blueprintfor the next five years, focusing on the regulation of the gambling sector and the protection of consumers in the European Union. With the backing of major members like Holland Casino, Casinos Austria, and Casino Cosmopol, the ECA aims to leverage its influence to shape policies that support the growth of a regulated, fair, and economically viable gambling industry.

As the European Commission begins to implement its 2024-2029 agenda, the ECA’s vision and the strategic priorities it has outlined in this manifesto are likely to play a crucial role in the future of the European gambling market.

Source:

The European Casino Association Publishes Its Visionary Manifesto for EU Policymakers – European Casino Association, December 1, 2024

The post European Casino Association Calls for Action with 2025 Manifesto appeared first on Casino News Daily.

Filed Under: Gambling News Tagged With: , , , , ,

Paraguay Moves to Open Gambling Market with New Bill

Paraguay-Chamber-of-Deputies-passes-bill-to-end-to-gambling-monopoly In a pivotal step towards modernizing its gambling sector, the Paraguay Chamber of Deputies has approved a bill that marks the end of the country’s state-run gambling monopoly. The reform, passed on December 17, 2024, introduces sweeping changes aimed at liberalizing the market, allowing private operators to enter the industry for the first time.

Dismantling the Monopoly

Under the newly passed bill, Paraguay will finally dismantle its restrictive gambling monopoly, which had limited operations to public tenders only. This change opens the door to private companies, paving the way for more competition and variety within the country’s gambling market. The approved amendments to Law No. 1,016/1997 signal Paraguay’s shift towards a more modernized approach to gambling, one that aligns with global industry trends.

For years, the country’s gambling activities had been regulated under a public monopoly system. However, the newly passed reforms will allow private businesses to enter the market, fueling competition and economic diversification. These changes are expected to benefit both consumers and the overall economy, with the government anticipating an increase in tax revenue from the sector.

Strengthening Regulatory Framework

One of the central aspects of the reform is the restructuring of the National Commission of Gambling (Conajzar). The bill places Conajzar under the supervision of the National Tax Revenue Directorate (DNIT), a move that’s expected to improve the regulatory oversight and revenue collection processes within the gambling sector. By streamlining the commission’s operations under DNIT, the government aims to bolster institutional efficiency and ensure better compliance with the new regulations.

The newly restructured Conajzar will have expanded responsibilities, with its general director overseeing all gambling-related activities, including regulation, coordination, and enforcement across the country.

A Shift in Paraguay’s Economic Landscape

The bill’s approval is part of a broader effort to modernize Paraguay’s economic policies in response to changing global trends. The country has witnessed considerable social and economic shifts in recent years, with technological advancements and evolving market conditions influencing the gambling industry. By opening the gambling sector to private operators, the government hopes to foster economic growth, attract foreign investment, and improve the competitive landscape.

The new law aims to optimizeParaguay’s gambling industry, ensuring that it can keep pace with technological changes and meet the growing demand for a more diverse range of gambling products and services.

Lawmakers React to the Bill

The reform has not been without controversy. While many lawmakers expressed support for the bill, there were some dissenting opinions regarding certain changes, particularly the amendments to Article 20. Deputy Adrián Vaesken (PLRA-Central) and Deputy Rocío Vallejo (PPQ-Capital) voiced their opposition to the changes, suggesting that some parts of the bill needed further revision. However, Deputy Yamil Esgaib (ANR-Capital) strongly supported the reform, stressing that it would help increase the commission’s capacity to enforce regulations and oversee gambling activities effectively.

Following the debate, the bill was approved by the Chamber of Deputies and is now on its way to the executive branch for final approval. If enacted, the bill will fundamentally reshape Paraguay’s gambling sector and introduce significant changes to its economic structure.

What Lies Ahead for Paraguay’s Gambling Industry

This reform is expected to be a turning point for Paraguay’s gambling industry. With the end of the monopoly and the introduction of private operators, the country is poised to see increased competition, better services for players, and higher tax revenues. The restructured regulatory framework, under the oversight of DNIT, ensures that the market will be better managed and regulated moving forward.

The introduction of private operators in Paraguay’s gambling sector is part of a broader strategy to stimulate economic development and align with global trends in the gaming industry. With these changes, Paraguay is positioning itself as an increasingly competitive and dynamic player in the international gambling market.

Source:

Sancionan nuevo régimen jurídico para la explotación de los juegos de azar, Cámara de Diputados de Paraguay, December 17, 2024.

The post Paraguay Moves to Open Gambling Market with New Bill appeared first on Casino News Daily.

Filed Under: Gambling News Tagged With: , , ,

Michigan Reports Record iGaming Revenue for November, Highlights 2024 Impact

iGaming,-sports-betting-operators-report-$284.3M-in-November-revenue,-set-record-with-$650.2M-in-online-sports-betting-handle (1)Michigan’s gaming industry reached unprecedented heights in November 2024, with a record $284.3 million in combined internet gaming (iGaming) and sports betting gross receipts. This figure, reflecting a 12.1% increase from October, was announced by the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB). The strong performance highlights the continued growth of Michigan’s regulated gaming sector.

iGaming gross receipts for November totaled $226.0 million, surpassing the previous high of $220.7 million recorded in October. Internet sports betting gross receipts also saw a significant jump to $58.3 million, compared to $33.0 million in the prior month. The total sports betting handle for November reached $650.2 million, the highest reported to date, reflecting a 16% increase over October.

Adjusted gross receipts (AGR) for November show the sector’s momentum, with $240.4 million reported across iGaming and sports betting activities. iGaming AGR rose to $203.3 million, marking a 2.4% month-over-month increase, while internet sports betting AGR climbed to $37.1 million, up $27.2 million from October. Compared to the same period last year, iGaming AGR grew by 28.9%, with internet sports betting receipts rising by $36.8 million.

Contributions to State and Local Economies

The gaming industry’s success continues to bolster Michigan’s economy. In November, operators paid $44.4 million in taxes and fees to the state, with $42.5 million stemming from iGaming and $1.9 million from internet sports betting. The three Detroit casinos contributed an additional $11.2 million to the City of Detroit in wagering taxes and municipal fees, with tribal operators making $5.2 million in payments to local governing bodies.

For the entire year, the MGCB reported over $501.4 million in contributions to Michigan’s School Aid Fund, supporting K-12 public education. Of this total, $388.5 million came from iGaming, $12.9 million from internet sports betting, and $100.5 million from casino wagering taxes. Other contributions included $4 million to the First Responder Presumed Coverage Fund and $3 million to the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund. The “Don’t Regret the Bet” responsible gaming campaign also received $3.75 million in funding.

Detroit’s casinos collectively paid $264.8 million in wagering taxes in 2024, adding to the $3.91 billion in total payments made to the city since 1999. Charitable gaming also thrived, with Millionaire Parties raising $5.35 million for Michigan charities from November 2023 to November 2024.

Enforcement and National Recognition

The MGCB reinforced its commitment to regulatory integrity by removing 206 illegal gambling machines in 2024 and issuing six cease-and-desist letters. These actions, supported by tips from Michigan residents, highlighted the agency’s proactive stance against illegal gaming operations. The MGCB’s efforts earned national recognition, including being the first regulator to secure compliance from Bovada through a cease-and-desist order.

MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams was named 2024 American Gambling Awards Regulator of the Year for his leadership. Reflecting on the year’s achievements, Williams said, “Our success this year reflects the dedication and hard work of our team, as well as the trust and collaboration of the communities we serve. We are committed to ensuring that Michigan’s gaming industry continues to thrive in a responsible and sustainable manner.”

Outlook for 2025

With a strong foundation of 15 authorized operators offering iGaming and 12 providing internet sports betting, Michigan’s gaming industry is well-positioned for sustained growth in 2025. The MGCB remains focused on ensuring regulatory compliance, supporting community initiatives, and maintaining Michigan’s status as a leader in the gaming sector.

Source:

”Michigan Gaming Control Board announces significant impact, revenue contributions to state funds in 2024”, michigan.gov, December 17, 2024.

The post Michigan Reports Record iGaming Revenue for November, Highlights 2024 Impact appeared first on Casino News Daily.

Filed Under: Gambling News Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

WSOP Threatened to Disqualify Justin Bonomo for Pro-Palestine Scarf

Poker player Justin Bonomo said Wednesday he was threatened with disqualification from the WSOP Paradise Super Main Event for wearing a keffiyeh, an Arab headdress.

Justin Bonomo, WSOP, keffiyeh, Palestine, WSOP Paradise Super Main Event
Justin Bonomo pictured sporting his controversial keffiyeh, which expresses his support for Palestine. The player has been asked not to wear it at Thursday’s televised final table or face disqualification. (Image: WSOP/YouTube)

The distinctly patterned black and white variety keffiyeh that Bonomo was sporting at the table is a traditional Palestinian garment and has been worn as a symbol of solidarity with the Palestinian people.

As Bonomo got deeper in the tournament, he suggested on social media the keffiyeh was bringing him luck.

Bonomo was down to the last 16 players in the $25K event at the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas when he was told to ditch the scarf because the WSOP didn’t want anything political on the televised final table.

Poker Politics

The 39-year-old American did make the final and will return today to play for a $6 million first prize, begrudgingly minus his scarf. On Wednesday evening, however, he asked his X followers whether anyone in the Bahamas could get him a Palestinian flag, so watch this space.

The request for removal of Mr. Bonomo’s keffiyeh once he reached the TV production table was simply a matter of broadcast clearance,” the WSOP said in a statement on Wednesday night. “Our future distribution platforms for Super Main Event do not allow garments deemed controversial or political in nature.”

Section 54d of the official WSOP rulebook states: “Host Properties reserve the right at all times to impose a ban on any apparel deemed objectionable by Host Properties, in its sole and absolute discretion. Host Properties reserve the right to refuse entry or continued participation in an Event to any Participant who does not comply with the aforementioned apparel rules.”

Charity Tournament Controversy 

Bonomo’s public show of support for Palestine may stem from the WSOP’s decision to hold a charity tournament to raise money for IDF Widows and Orphans, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the families of fallen Israeli soldiers.

Bonomo described the decision as “monstrous” and labeled the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) a “genocidal terrorist organization” that had “obliterated Gaza.”

But according to fellow player Mike “The Mouth” Matusow, who operates on the opposite end of the political spectrum, it’s Bonomo who is supporting terrorism.

He should not be allowed to play poker tourneys!” Matusow tweeted. “Can’t wait for Trump to throw people who support terrorism in jail! Maybe Jihadomo will be first!”

Bonomo isn’t the first poker player to stir up controversy with a pro-Palestine garment. Back in 2014, Oliver Busquet inspired PokerStars to revise its dress code after he wore a “Free Gaza” T-shirt to the EPT Super High Roller Event in Barcelona and won the whole thing.

“Players have many channels to express their views on world politics, but our tournaments are not an appropriate place,” PokerStars said afterward.

Busquet suggested it was “worth having the conversation about whether it’s appropriate or not.”

The post WSOP Threatened to Disqualify Justin Bonomo for Pro-Palestine Scarf appeared first on Casino.org.

Filed Under: Gambling News Tagged With: , , , , ,