Compliance Updates
UK Gambling Commission penalty imminent for Stride Gaming
Stride Gaming, the UK-based online gambling company, is bracing for a hefty fine from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). The fine is expected to be around GBP 4 million. The reason for the fine is still not clear. The Commission has basically found faults with Stride’s functioning after a review of Stride’s activities.
The company expects the issue to be resolved by year’s end.
Stride’s trading update details estimated full-year results to end August 2018 as in line with expectations, with revenue of around GBP 85 million, up GBP 3 million on the preceding year.
EBITDA is estimated at GBP 16 million, or GBP 4 million lower than the preceding year.
Management commented on a resilient performance despite the challenges of GBP 4 million in tax increases and the implementation of stricter responsible gambling measures.
Final full-year results will be announced on November 21, 2018.
Eitan Boyd, CEO of Stride Gaming, said: “I am pleased to report that the group has traded well during the second half of the year despite a number of headwinds impacting the UK online gaming market.”
“Our focus remains on delivering further market share growth in the UK, driven by continued product innovation and increasing player loyalty. This is underpinned by the strength of our proprietary technology as well as our proven business analytics capabilities.”
“We have an excellent technology platform as well as a highly experienced team driving the group forward, and as a result, we look forward to the future with confidence.”
Source: reviewed-casinos
Compliance Updates
IAGR confirms new Board members
The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) has announced the appointment of four new trustees to its Board, each bringing unique expertise and leadership to strengthen IAGR’s global regulatory efforts:
- Anders Dorph, Danish Gambling Authority (Europe)
- Peter Kesitilwe Emolemo, Gambling Authority of Botswana (Africa)
- Kevin Mullally, General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (Asia/Oceania)
- Louis Rogacki, New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (North America)
IAGR President Ben Haden said, ‘I’m delighted to welcome our four new trustees to the IAGR Board. Their diverse expertise and leadership across different jurisdictions will bring fresh perspectives to our work, further strengthening our global approach to gaming regulation.
‘I look forward to collaborating with Peter, Louis, Kevin and Anders as we continue to foster innovation and drive forward effective, responsible regulation for the benefit of the global gaming community.
‘We also extend a big thank you to Trude Høgseth Felde and Mabutho Zwane for their dedicated service as they complete their terms on the Board, and I’m pleased to announce that Jason Lane will continue for another term as a Trustee.’
As a leading forum for gaming regulators worldwide, IAGR enables members to meet, share information, discuss legislative developments, exchange views and learn best practices in gaming regulation.
In recent news, IAGR has also confirmed that its 2025 annual conference will be held in Toronto, Canada, from 20 to 23 October 2025, with registrations opening in early 2025.
Compliance Updates
MGA Issues First ESG Code Approval Seals to Licensees
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has awarded its first-ever ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) Code Approval Seals to licensees in the online gaming sector, marking a milestone in the Authority’s commitment to promoting responsible and sustainable industry practices.
This initiative follows the launch of the voluntary ESG Code of Good Practice last year, which invited licensees to submit their ESG disclosure returns. The Code, which covers 19 topics categorised under Environmental, Social and Governance pillars, offers a strategic roadmap for online gaming companies to streamline their reporting efforts.
Following the first annual reporting cycle, 14 gaming operators have been awarded the ESG Code Approval Seal. The Code supports two levels of reporting: Tier 1, which establishes foundational ESG standards, and Tier 2, which represents a more aspirational approach.
Seals are valid for one year, with flexibility for renewal in the subsequent reporting period, allowing operators to advance or adapt their reporting tier year by year.
“We believe this initiative will significantly enhance the industry’s reputation and sustainability credentials,” MGA CEO Charles Mizzi said.
“By integrating ESG considerations into their operations, gaming companies not only contribute to the wellbeing of society and the environment but also strengthen the trust and confidence that consumers, investors, and regulators have in the industry. This initiative sends a clear message: sustainability, in the broadest sense of the word, is integral to the future of the gaming sector.”
Compliance Updates
Turkish Football Federation to Penalise Clubs Promoting Illegal Betting
The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has introduced new regulations to crack down on illegal betting advertisements in professional football.
According to the TFF, clubs found violating the new rules will face fines and, in case of repeated offenses, the deduction of points.
Under the updated guidelines, any club in the Turkish Super League involved in unauthorised betting promotions will face a tiered penalty system.
The first violation will result in a fine of 2 million Turkish Liras (around $58,000), and the second offense will incur a 5 million lira fine and a third violation will see the fine increased to 10 million liras. For subsequent breaches, clubs will be fined 10 million liras for each offense, along with a three-point deduction from their league standings.
“It is forbidden to promote or advertise betting organizations not licensed by competent authorities. This includes any media, billboards and other equipment used within stadium,” the TFF stated.
The TFF emphasised that the ban also applies to entities affiliated with these betting organisations, including those involved in promoting and advertising activities in a way that suggests endorsement of illegal betting.
The global scale of the illegal betting market is staggering, with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime estimating its worth at $1.8 trillion. In Türkiye alone, the sector is projected to exceed 100 billion liras, according to the Financial Crimes Investigation Board.
-
Asia6 days ago
VSPO, the largest esports company in Asia, rebranded Hero Esports to support global growth strategy
-
Central Europe6 days ago
Evoplay enters Czech market with exclusive Fortuna collaboration
-
Latest News6 days ago
Week 45/2024 slot games releases
-
Industry News6 days ago
iGB Affiliate attracts registrations from 55 nations in just six weeks
-
Industry News6 days ago
Endorphina Affiliate Hub: Huge Benefits for Affiliates
-
Compliance Updates6 days ago
Aviatrix lands in the Netherlands
-
Compliance Updates6 days ago
Comtrade Gaming Receives UKGC Approval to Distribute Gaming Content
-
Balkans6 days ago
Endorphina Partners with Volcanobet