Compliance Updates
Dutch Gambling Regulator Imposes €500,000 Fine on N1 Interactive Limited
Dutch gambling regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has imposed a fine of €500,000 (£425,967.50) on Maltese-based company N1 Interactive Limited.
Since the Netherlands operates a regulated offline gambling market, whereby online gambling is not yet (but soon to be) allowed, N1 received a fine for offering illegal gaming to Dutch players.
Words like “Amsterdam” were used as bonus codes aimed towards the Dutch audience, alongside zero indication on the N1 website of the Netherlands being a prohibited country for online gaming. The amount of the fine was determined across a number of circumstances; and extra fines were accrued by N1 for failing to add a visible age verification option alongside charging players extra for “inactivity fees”.
Legally, offering any online gambling is only permitted if a company has a licence. It is especially unlawful to offer any type of online gambling via the internet to the Netherlands, a country which previously banned online gambling, and according to the KSA is deemed as “forbidden”.
There seems to be a slight revamp in this regulation since 1 April when the Remote Gambling Act (KOA) came into effect. With this, it will now be possible to apply for a licence to offer online gaming from 1 October 2021.
With a view to protecting the Netherlands from illegal online gambling, the KSA has ensured N1’s website, Betchan, has since been removed and is no longer accessible.
Compliance Updates
NOVOMATIC Secures Global Gambling Guidance Group (G4) Recertification
In an industry that demands innovation and responsibility in equal measure, NOVOMATIC is once again sending a clear signal that player protection is more than just a buzzword. The recertification by the renowned Global Gambling Guidance Group (G4) is proof of NOVOMATIC’s ingrained sense of responsibility and its deep commitment, which goes far beyond what is required by law.
Taking responsibility is in NOVOMATIC’s corporate DNA. Responsible gaming together with the associated player protection and prevention measures are therefore a top priority for the Group. This is a fact demonstrated by the Group’s recertification in accordance with the recognized G4 standard issued by the Global Gambling Guidance Group. The award, created by experts in the field of responsible gaming, is internationally recognized as the most renowned and demanding standard for player protection. As a pioneer and driving force in the area of player protection, NOVOMATIC has been committed to the G4 standard since 2019 and is one of the few gaming companies around the world to meet the demanding criteria of the independent audit. With certified locations in several core European markets – including Austria, Germany, UK, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands – NOVOMATIC is demonstrating its consistent global focus on responsible and sustainable gaming technologies.
Responsibility at the Highest Level
The fact that the G4 standard is subject to ongoing development means that it is necessary to seek recertification every three years. As one of the world’s leading gaming technology companies, NOVOMATIC rises to this challenge time and again with its full commitment and innovative solutions.
“This certification is proof of our pursuit of excellent and responsible entertainment. As a globally active technology supplier and operator of international casinos, the recertification is clear evidence of our ongoing commitment to ensuring a safe and sustainable gaming experience,” the Executive Board of the NOVOMATIC AG Group said.
Ynze Remmers, G4 Lead Auditor, said: “NOVOMATIC AG, as a supplier to the industry, sets the bar for responsible gambling with cutting-edge biometric technology, robust player protection tools, and a commitment to global standards – driving player safety and innovation across the gaming industry.”
The G4 certification comprises over 100 criteria – from comprehensive internal guidelines to intensive employee training, transparent customer risk education and responsible marketing. NOVOMATIC is a pioneer in responsible entertainment, consistently integrating responsible gaming into its business strategy at the highest level. Having renewed its G4 certification, NOVOMATIC remains a driving force behind global player protection.
Compliance Updates
Play’n GO celebrates award of Malta Gaming Authority ESG-C Seal
Swedish gaming giant the only B2B company awarded Tier 2 seal in recognition of “aspirational level” of ESG reporting
Play’n GO, the world’s leading casino entertainment provider, has today announced it has received the Malta Gaming Authority’s ESG-C Tier 2 Seal in recognition of its efforts and reporting of ESG activities.
Earlier this year, the legendary games studio released its 2023 Sustainability Report, outlining its commitment to a sustainable future, both for the iGaming industry and the planet as a whole. The report covered everything from Play’n GO’s commitments to “Net Zero”, greener working practices, and the company’s “Culture of Belonging” in a Digital First world.
Play’n GO recently became the only iGaming business to be nominated at the 2024 Corporate Star Awards, where its Sustainability Report was recognised alongside global leaders such as SONY Entertainment and Globo.
Vanessa Arenram, CSR Director at Play’n GO, commented “We’re pleased to have our commitment to a sustainable world recognised in this way by the Malta Gaming Authority. Our commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility goes far beyond mere words- it’s reflected in our actions, initiatives, and the positive impact we strive to create, both within our industry and the wider world. Our 2023 Sustainability Report received very positive feedback, both internally and externally, and we look forward to publishing the 2024 version early next year. We would like to thank the Malta Gaming Authority for this award, and pledge to continue the work for many years to come.”
Compliance Updates
MGA Publishes Skills Gap Report, Unveiling Insights into Workforce Trends and Industry Challenges
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has released its latest report analysing the skills gap in the online gaming industry, based on surveys conducted between 2020 and 2024. The findings, reflecting data from 2019 to 2023, provide valuable insights into workforce trends, challenges, and opportunities across MGA-licensed activities in Malta.
Key Findings from the Report
Positive Labour Market Dynamics
75.8% of surveyed respondents rated Malta positively in areas such as labour market trends, skills availability, and training opportunities when compared to other jurisdictions.
Vacancy Trends in 2023
At the end of 2023, 74.9% of job vacancies had been open for less than three months.
There were 92.5 vacancies per 1000 employees in MGA-licensed activities, with a total of 885 open positions reported by online gaming companies in Malta.
Vacancy Breakdown by Level
79.2% of open positions were at the operational level.
18.8% were at middle management, while top management roles accounted for 2.0% of total vacancies.
Roles in Demand
Marketing roles (including customer care) represented 21.1% of vacancies, while technology-related positions made up 16.8%.
Top Barriers to Recruitment
The most common reasons for unfilled vacancies over the reporting period were:
Lack of work experience.
Competition from other firms.
Insufficient qualifications.
Recruitment Trends in 2023
84.9% of surveyed firms hired personnel from other companies within the industry.
Only 25.8% recruited directly from university graduates, underscoring the need for better alignment between educational programmes and industry needs.
Addressing Skills Gaps
71.7% of firms implemented in-house training or mentoring programmes to address skill shortages.
55.4% intensified employee retention efforts as a strategy to close skills gaps.
MGA CEO, Charles Mizzi, commented on the report’s findings:
“As Malta’s gaming industry evolves, it is essential to adapt and strengthen the foundations that support its success.”
“The Skills Gap Report reveals important insights into the challenges and opportunities ahead, particularly the need for targeted skills development and stronger partnerships between educational institutions and industry. By addressing these priorities, we can ensure sustainable growth and maintain Malta’s leadership in the global gaming ecosystem.”
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