Compliance Updates
Paul Newson appointed as IAGR president as IAGR2019 wraps up in Jamaica
The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) has appointed Paul Newson, Trustee of the NSW Responsible Gambling Fund, as President as part of IAGR’s 2019 annual conference, held in Jamaica from 30 September to 3 October.
The event – IAGR2019 – attracted over 200 gaming regulators, advisors, law experts and industry representatives from more than 25 countries.
Mr Newson said, ‘It’s an honour to be appointed President of the International Association of Gaming Regulators following what’s been a watershed year for the organisation.
I’m really looking forward to working with our Board of Trustees, members and industry stakeholders to best position IAGR to advance better regulation globally.’
Outgoing President, Trude Felde, Senior Advisor at the Norwegian Gaming Authority, said, ‘What a year it’s been. I would like to thank the Board and our Secretary for their hard work and commitment over the 12 months.’
‘To our members, thank you for having the confidence in me to lead as President for the last year. I love engaging with gaming regulatory community, and I hope to see you all regularly for many years to come.’
More than 40 speakers and panellists travelled to Montego Bay, Jamaica to be part of the program for IAGR2019. Mr Newson was appointed as President on Day 3 of IAGR2019, as part of the annual members’ meeting.
Paul Curby, Director CurbyPartners, presented at the event on ‘Indicators of deception in language’. Paul has over 30 years’ experience in governance and risk, specialising in investigations across serious misconduct, fraud and corruption, including 15 years in law enforcement.
Mr Curby said, ‘Overseeing gaming operators brings its own unique challenges, particularly when it comes to investigating and testing the veracity of their conduct.
‘Whether a regulator is being proactive in eliciting information from operators or reacting to potential legislative breaches, or interviewing a witness, regulatory staff need to have the necessary skills to help identify where someone is withholding information and/or being deceptive.
‘Understanding linguistic cues in written and verbal communication will help regulators get to the truth. Knowing these cues and how to respond is key.’
In his closing comments at the event Mr Newson said, ‘I’m thrilled to declare IAGR2019 a smashing success.
‘Our impressive lineup of speakers, many internationally renowned, provoked thinking and debate, and sparked conversations that will continue and help advance efficient and collaborative gambling regulation globally.
‘Thank you to our hosts the Betting Gaming & Lotteries Commission and Casino Gaming Commission, Jamaica for staging an outstanding conference and for the immensely warm and vibrant Jamaican hospitality.’
‘While IAGR2019 has come to a close and we prepare to say farewell to Jamaica, our gaze now shifts and anticipation builds for IAGR2020 in Boston, Massachusetts.’
IAGR2020 will be hosted by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission and will be held in late 2020. Find out more www.iagr.org.
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.
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