Malta’s legislation undergoes meticulous scrutiny to ensure harmonization with EU law. The UK’s gambling regulations are presently under critical reevaluation. Meanwhile, the financially turbulent waters surround Top Sport, grappling with money laundering concerns in Lithuania. On another front, the Swedish regulator’s directive faces resistance as Zimpler boldly seeks to challenge the order in question. And Brazil’s sports betting landscape experiences a shift in regard to taxation and advertising amendments.
Malta’s gaming law under EU law compatibility check
The European Commission wants to examine the Malta gaming bill (Bill 55) that shields MGA-approved companies from liability. In a bid to evaluate the bill’s compliance with EU law, European Commissioner for Justice, Didier Reynders, reached out to the Maltese authorities, urging them to provide additional information. This request was prompted by questionings from German MEP Sabine Verheyen.
Verheyen inquired about the legality of the bill, possible links between Malta’s government and the gaming industry, and the potential for sanctions if EU law is violated. The bill, passed in June, awaits European Commission approval to become law and contains regulations to protect operators from lawsuits related to their MGA-licensed activities.
In their quest to challenge court orders demanding repayment of losses, certain operators have invoked the principles of European freedom of services. They have raised doubts regarding the compatibility of local licensing regimes with EU law.
UK gambling regulations up for review
GB Gambling Commission starts Gambling Act assessment consultations, seeking input on areas like financial risk, online games design, consumer choice in marketing, and age verification. The 12-week consultation process revolves around empowering and protecting gamblers, turning policy commitments into reality.
The government is embarking on consultations concerning online slot stake limitations and proposing updated regulations for arcades, bingo halls, and gambling venues. These efforts aim to modernize gambling laws in reaction to the challenges posed by the digital age.
The Commission is additionally consulting on operator staff management roles and regulatory panel decision-making processes. However, some House of Lords members criticize the extensive number of measures under consultation.
Top Sport’s money laundering woes, no fine given
Lithuania’s Gambling Supervision Service spared Top Sport a fine for insufficient money laundering management at its slot machines. The company faced multiple recent reprimands but received only a warning this time. The regulator found various areas lacking in money laundering prevention from Jan 2020 to Jan 2023.
The operator has been penalized seven times this year alone. June saw three fines for online payment, underage money-wagering, and mobile betting issues. Past transgressions encompassed a broad spectrum, ranging from infractions related to remote gaming, promotional activities, to matters concerning CCTV. In Nov 2022, a warning was issued for a Fifa World Cup prediction game breach. Betsafe avoided sanctions despite violating gambling laws.
Zimpler stands firm in formal appeal against regulatory decision
In a captivating legal process, Zimpler is taking on the Swedish regulatory body, Spelinspektionen, after receiving a stern order. The regulator is determined to eradicate any dealings with unlicensed operators in the market, threatening Zimpler with a staggering SEK 25.0m fine if they refuse to comply. The root of the issue lies in the provider’s utilization of BankID for transactions with unlicensed websites, which the watchdog deems as a clear-cut violation targeting Swedish players.
Despite Zimpler’s assurance of ending ties with these operators by the third quarter, the company is not backing down without a fight. They plan to mount a formal appeal, vehemently arguing that the decision is unjust and could have far-reaching repercussions on the entire market.
Interestingly, Zimpler had presented proposals to the government, seeking changes in the law to put an end to unlicensed sites. Sadly, the government failed to implement these measures, leading Zimpler to believe that their appeal is crucial in establishing legal certainty for companies dealing with regulatory authorities. As the saga unfolds, all eyes remain fixed on Spelinspektionen, awaiting their response to Zimpler’s audacious move.
Changes in tax and advertising for Brazil’s sports betting
In a groundbreaking development, Brazil embraces the world of sports betting, unveiling an 18% tax framework that signifies a monumental leap forward since the passage of the 2018 law. A pivotal 120-day window lies ahead as the National Congress deliberates on approving this bold move.
To effectively steer this new course, the Ministry of Finance sets the stage for the establishment of the National Secretariat for Games and Betting (SNJA), tasked with meticulously regulating this flourishing sector. As part of this ambitious endeavor, approximately 70 skilled individuals will be sought to join the ranks of SNJA, cementing Brazil’s entry into the realm of legalized sports betting.
The PM includes changes such as increased revenue taxation from 16% to 18% and more detailed advertising restrictions. Foreign companies can apply for a license, and responsible gambling messaging is required. It’s been a long journey since the 2018 law, with President Lula finally signing the measure after delays.
Read more: Wild wild push: what happens to leads after receiving a push notification
Read more: The social media impact on online slots sites and casinos