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Court Declares Rīga’s Ban on Gambling Unconstitutional

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The Constitutional Court of Latvia said on April 4 that it had deemed the restriction on the organisation of gambling throughout Rīga unconstitutional, as the municipality has not justified why gambling is prohibited in the specific areas.

The case was brought before the Constitutional Court following applications by the gambling companies Olympic Casino Latvia Ltd, Alfor Ltd and Joker Ltd. They requested an assessment of the compliance of the Rīga spatial plan with Article 105 of the Constitution, which provides for the right to property that may be restricted only following the law. Compulsory expropriation of property for public needs is only allowed in exceptional cases on the basis of a separate law against fair compensation.

The contested norm provides, however, that the organisation of gambling and the provision of gambling services are prohibited in the entire administrative territory of Rīga, except where such gambling venues are located in four- or five-star hotels.

Six years ago, the Riga City Council decided to close down 42 gambling venues in the city centre, and last September it decided to cancel 139 permits for gambling venues outside the city centre. They must close within five years.

The Constitutional Court found that the organisation of gambling is a legal commercial activity existing in conditions of free competition.

The legislator has given the municipality the competence to assess independently which areas or territories of the municipality should be subject to restrictions on the organisation of gambling. The municipality is also entitled to designate an unlimited number of areas in the spatial plan where gambling is not allowed. However, the municipality must comply with the principle of territorial assessment laid down in the authorisation granted by the legislator.

The Constitutional Court found that the municipality had failed to state reasons why the organisation of gambling was prohibited in the functional zones of the spatial plan, where commercial activities were envisaged as one of the permitted uses of the territory.

In accordance with the principle of assessment of territories laid down in the Law on Gambling, the municipality must assess, for example, in the spatial planning process, the built-up area and the location of infrastructure facilities, the population density, the interests of residents and traders and other relevant aspects which may be the basis for imposing restrictions on the organisation of gambling.

No such assessment has been carried out by the municipality prior to the establishment of restrictions on gambling throughout the territory of Riga.

The Constitutional Court held that the restriction on fundamental rights contained in the contested norm was incompatible with Article 1 and the first, second and third sentences of Article 105 of the Constitution.

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Baltics

Live in Latvia! Spelet.lv and Hacksaw Gaming Celebrate New Launch Together

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Live in Latvia! Spelet.lv and Hacksaw Gaming Celebrate New Launch Together
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We are thrilled to announce a new partnership with the swiftly up and coming Spelet.lv, launching Hacksaw’s expansive portfolio of top-tier games on the Spelet.lv platform.

Popular Hacksaw Gaming titles, including Wanted Dead or a Wild, Le Bandit, R.I.P City, and Chaos Crew, are known for their unique user experiences and have captivated players globally. These titles, along with the full portfolio of slots and Dare2Win™ games, are now proudly featured in the dedicated Hacksaw tab on Spelet.lv’s platform. This exciting addition is set to captivate Spelet.lv users across Latvia!

Founded as a trusted online casino and sportsbook, Spelet.lv has been at the forefront of delivering exceptional gaming experiences. Since its establishment, it has continually pushed the boundaries and embraced emerging technologies.

Spelet.lv expressed their enthusiasm about the launch: “Exciting News! We’re thrilled to announce a dynamic collaboration between Hacksaw Gaming and Spelet.lv! Get ready to elevate your gaming experience as we introduce Hacksaw’s innovative and immersive games to the Spelet.lv platform. Together, we’re not just launching games, we’re shaping the future of online gaming, one thrilling experience at a time. Players can look forward to a diverse selection of Hacksaw titles, ranging from thrilling scratch cards to engaging slots, all seamlessly integrated into the Spelet.lv experience. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the scene, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

Marcus Cordes, CEO of Hacksaw Gaming, also shares Spelet.lv’s outlook on this new beginning. “Another strong collaboration under our belts, driving our mission to revolutionise the industry and deliver innovative gaming experiences!”

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Baltics

MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Summit 2024 Sparked GameTech Revolution and Unity Across the Baltics and Nordics

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MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Summit 2024 Sparked GameTech Revolution and Unity Across the Baltics and Nordics
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HIPTHER, leading conference organizer for Gaming and Technology industries in Europe, is thrilled to announce the completion of a revolutionary 2024 edition for their successful MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Summit series.

The #hipthers brought together in Tallinn some of the best companies and most distinguished experts across iGaming, Technology and Compliance industries between 3-5 June, offering a premium experience of growth and connectivity to local and international professionals.

Relive the Moments – MBGTS 2024 Photo Album

 

From the Baltic and Nordic Standards to the World: iGaming & Compliance Updates

Day 1 of the Summit was brimming with Compliance updates and insights from panels focusing both on the local standards, as well as keeping up with global compliance trends. Renowned experts debated the the complexities and nuances of the iGaming regulatory landscape in the Baltics and Nordics, offered a concise overview of the complex regulatory frameworks in Serbia, the USA, Spain, Germany, and Estonia, and provided Insights into Market Dynamics, Trends, and Sports Betting Evolution in the Nordic iGaming Landscape.

Furthermore, delegates had the precious opportunity to attend an IMGL Masterclass about Navigating MiCA, EU AI Act, and DSA in the Digital Age.

 

Exploring Fintech, Blockchain, and the Potential of DAOs in the Gaming Industry

The Summit offered valuable insights on the evolution of financial institutions, exploring the integration of fintech and blockchain and the challenges and opportunities it brings.

Our experts introduced the concept of Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) and how they are emerging as a transformative force in the gaming industry, offering new possibilities for community-driven game development, player-owned economies, and transparent governance.

 

Exploring Digital Engagement: Esports Dynamics, Gamification, Mobile Innovation, AI and Web3

True to its title of Gaming & TECH, the conference delved deep into all matters Tech, ranging from Gaming and the global challenges and opportunities within the eSports industry, the strategic integration of gamification to boost player retention and loyalty in the iGaming sector, and the Digital Services Act and AI EU Act for businesses, to the Integration of Blockchain and Web3 Across Industries.

A specially designed Workshop on Baltic Compliance in Web3, Fintech, and Blockchain offered  a deep dive into Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania’s regulatory frameworks, featuring interactive discussions and case studies.

 

The Power of Communication: Marketing & Organizational Culture Sessions

The MARE BALTICUM Summit speakers offered insights and ample food for thought for all aspects of Marketing in GameTech, starting from the power collab between SEO and Affiliate Marketing Websites, and highlighting the crossroads between B2B and B2C on the path to commercial success.

Honouring the commitment to offering valuable knowledge across the spectrum of GameTech operations, HIPTHER innovates by adding the matter of Organizational Culture in the industry’s Conference Agenda under the guidance of expert Organizational Culture Designers.

 

Connecting People in the 21st Century: MARE BALTICUM Networking Sessions

The magical MARE BALTICUM Experience kicked off with a relaxing Welcome Meet in the lavish environment of the Olympic Park Casino on 3 June.

Wellness and balanced nutrition are always a staple at HIPTHER conferences, and this time the Team upped the Game by adding a special Morning Yoga & Mindful Breathing Session from a certified yoga instructor, to open Day 1 with tranquility and focus. The “traditional” Morning Networking Run opened Day 2 on 5 June, also celebrating the Global Running Day 2024!

Delicious vegan meals, snacks, and coffee nourished attendees and promoted networking and bonding over new taste experiences across the lunch and coffee breaks.

Two electrifying networking parties, the Baltic & Scandinavian Gaming (BSG) Awards Ceremony Party featuring an exciting karaoke stage, and the Closing Party, offering a Private Concert, Pizza and Drinks, brought people together and ensured a fun, social, and successful experience for all!

 

The Future of Gaming & Technology: MARE BALTICUM 2025 and European Gaming Congress

The popular MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Series travels and honours the Baltic States, and  will return next year in Vilnius! Stay tuned to HIPTHER Channels for updates!

In the meantime, HIPTHER prepares a new All-Gaming Conference Experience and invites you to the European Gaming Congress (EGC) 2024 in Warsaw on 15-16 October, to discuss and connect over Gambling Industry Compliance, iGaming Innovation, Marketing (Communication, Affiliate, SEO), Organizational Culture, and the Evolution of Fintech and Blockchain.

Secure your Early Bird EGC Tickets Until July 10

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Baltics

DATA.BET Wins in “Best Esports Service Provider” Category at Baltic & Scandinavian Awards 2024

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DATA.BET has won in the “Best Esports Service Provider” category at the Baltic & Scandinavian Awards 2024.

The ceremony, organised by Hipther, took place on June 4, 2024, in Tallinn, Estonia, and gathered industry leaders and innovators to celebrate outstanding achievements across the gaming and betting landscape. Winning this award is a significant milestone for DATA.BET in expanding its presence and influence across the European continent.

“We are proud to receive this recognition at the BSG Awards 2024. This is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication, and a highlight of the exceptional quality of services we provide to our customers. Such breakthrough opens up new horizons, allowing us to forge stronger connections with industry representatives in the Baltic region. We are excited about the future and look forward to introducing even more innovative product updates,” Otto Boning, head of sales at DATA.BET, said.

The BSG Awards, known for highlighting excellence in the gaming industry, provided a perfect platform for industry leaders to celebrate achievements and explore new avenues of growth. Winning this esteemed award validates the company’s efforts and ambition to lead the esports betting market.

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