Latest News
How the Re-Regulation of the Swedish Market Affects Players and Casino Operators
Gambling industries from all over the world have to comply with a set of gambling regulations. Some are quite reasonable, whilst others may be more restrictive. Regardless, we can agree that they’re all confusing irrespective of the country you’re residing in.
In this post, we’re going to tackle the ins and outs of the Swedish gambling market. In particular, we’re going to talk about some gambling laws that are currently in place, and how these are affecting casino operators and players
Gambling in Sweden: An Overview
Did you know that gambling in Sweden dates back to the 11th Century? That’s right! In fact, its roots can be traced back to the time when the Vikings conquered the land. According to several historians, it seems the Swedes used a dice game to settle a land dispute with the Norwegians.
Nowadays, Sweden has sought to become one of the biggest gambling markets in Europe. With well-known brands such as Unibet and Betsson, both of which fall under Kindred group, the Swedish gambling market has well and truly made its mark on the world.
As far as land-based gambling goes, there are currently four brick and mortar venues in Sweden. They are located in Sundsvall, Gothenburg, Stockholm and Malmo. As you can expect, these land casinos are packed with slot machines, poker, blackjack, roulette and baccarat. To enter a casino and play any of these games, you must at least be 20 years of age.
However, you are allowed to engage in casino online if the platform is licensed and if you are 18 years old.
Understanding Sweden’s Gambling Laws
It’s no secret that Sweden has experience a number of changes in gambling laws and regulation. For starters, one must keep in mind that the government established the state gambling monopoly back in 1934 to ban illegal gambling activities.
Given that Sweden’s local gambling market remained a state monopoly up until 2018, Swedish players had the option to gamble at the four venues or cruise ships. That said, it became harder for lawmakers to stick to the state monopoly given that the online casino world is making its mark on the world.
Online gambling became officially legal in Sweden back in the year 2002. Following this, Swedish lawmakers introduced laws that would open the doors to the market. In fact, more and more casino operators have been advertising their services openly during the last few years.
According to several industry experts, people are more nowadays more invested in playing online casino games due to the convenience and portability that comes with them. We get it – all you need to do is switch on your desktop device and just like that, you can place bets and enjoy your gaming experience.
On top of that, you can also opt for mobile gaming. Needless to say, the interest in this market is huge. In fact, lots of industry experts expect mobile devices to replace desktops in the years to come. Again, portability is a huge selling point here, so we understand why more and more users are opting to play casino games on their mobiles.
As mentioned previously, the success of the online gambling industry meant it became harder for state-owned Svenska Spel to monitor gambling activities. Given that this was set up many years ago, it obviously started causing more problems within the Swedish gambling industry. On top of that, Sweden faced a lot of pressure from the European Commission to completely remove the state gambling monopoly.
Evidently, it was causing a lot of problems to the industry due to the fact that it was limiting competition from industry operators from all over the world. As Swedish industry lawmakers faced more pressure from the European Commission to re-regulate the Swedish market, things were looking up.
After lawmakers realized that the Swedish government was losing many shares to international casino operators, they finally abolished the state gambling monopoly. The new Gambling Act came into effect on 1st January 2019. Since then, the Swedish Gambling Authority has been accepting more private online casino operators.
As one can imagine, there were many reasons as to why new reforms where needed. First off, there was a need to recognize the unregistered market. On top of that, these new laws would allow the country to benefit from the taxes.
Under the new act, the Swedish Gambling Authority now has the right to approve all forms of gambling on an online and offline basis. Additionally, the new laws also impose strict regulations on responsible gambling and most importantly, protects players.
To illustrate this as an example, operators cannot offer credits to players. Furthermore, built-in tools such as self-exclusion has to be added to each platform by law. Following this huge change more than 100 casino operators have been registered as licensed providers. Needless to say, the year 2020 marked a significant change in the history of gambling in Sweden.
Main Takeaways from the New Legislation
So far, we’ve established that online gambling is no cause for concern for players. In fact, creating an account and placing bets online aren’t considered as criminal offenses. That said, if you are a casino operator, you need to make sure that you are doing things by the book.
Gambling regulations in Sweden aren’t so bad for players as it is not a criminal offense to create an.
Here the key points from Sweden’s new gambling legislation (SFS 2018:1138):
- Companies need to pay 18% tax for commercial gaming
- There are six different licenses (depending on the service offered)
- 0% tax for charitable gambling events
- License prices vary – 400,000 – 700,000 SEK
- The legal age is 18+ to play online and 21+ to be able to enter a land-based casino.
Although the new rules will increase revenues, the re-regulation of the market will promote a safer gambling environment for players and operators. As mentioned previously, this will improve cyber security, online safety, match fixing and game security.
All rules in the new legislation apply to all gambling services (online and land gambling) that target Swedish players. In the long run, this allows all foreign operators to have equal chance of competing with Svenska Spel where advertising and marketing issues are concerned.
Types of Licenses
LICENSE | GAMES INCLUDED | EXPLANATION |
State owned games | Casino games, slot games and some lottery | Only for state owned companies |
Public purpose games | Some lottery games | Only for non-profit organizations |
Commercial online games | Online casino games, slot machines and bingo | Companies that meet the following criteria |
Betting | All forms of online and land-based betting | Companies that meet the following criteria |
Commercial land-based games | Slot games and card games outside a casino | Companies that meet the following criteria |
Cruise ship games | Casino games and slot machines | Ships on international waters |
And on that note, we will now focus on some of the best online casinos that are licensed to operate and offer their services in Sweden.
Top Casinos in Sweden
So, which are the top contenders that are exciting Swedish casino enthusiasts? Check out our definitive list here!
Spin Casino
If you’re looking for a top casino that offers the full package, look no further than Spin Casino. Ever since it was launched in 2018, it has excited players from all of the world with what’s on offer. We’ll tell you one thing – the bar is extremely high
Since you’re here for the gaming experience, we can guarantee that the lobby is packed with the best casino games from top leading providers. From top online slots, intense table games, immersive live casino and more, you’re spoiled for choice. There are plenty of chances for you to get your hands on the gold, not to mention what’s in store when it comes to bonuses.
When you sign up, you can get 100 SEK after you place your first deposit! What a way to kick things off right?!
Twin Casino
Twin Casino has also made it to our favourites’ list – and with good reason! Swedish players are treated to an online casino experience that well and truly exceeds their expectations. For starters, you are awarded 100 SEK or 100 Free Spins just for signing up! (Terms and Conditions Apply) What’s not to like?!
Best of all, you are treated to over 1,000 games from over 20 manufacturers. Trust us when we say Twin Casino isn’t messing around here. In fact, this casino operator has teamed up with the likes of NetEnt, Evolution Gaming, Play ‘n Go and Pragmatic Play (amongst others) to offer best-loved slots, thrilling table games and immersive live casino.
What’s also great about Twin Casino is that you have free rein to enjoy your favourite games on your phone or via your smartphone device. Additionally, there are plenty of deposit and withdrawal methods you can use, including Mastercard, Trustly, Neteller, Skrill and others. If any problems crop up, you can always get in touch with the 24/7 customer support team.
888 Casino
A casino like 888 casino certainly needs no introduction. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, this provider knows exactly how to offer a jam-packed experience to Swedish players. And we can see why!
Needless to say, the games are the heart and soul of every casino experience. In this case, 888 Casinos promises only the very best casino games for all gaming levels. Given that all games are provided by leading gaming giants such as NetEnt, you just know you won’t be disappointed.
We’re talking classic slots like Starburst and Gonzo’s Quest, as well as table games like blackjack, roulette, baccarat etc. Of course, we can’t forget the stellar live casino selection of games! Again, you know you are guaranteed a cutting-edge gaming experience. What’s more is that you can bag 100 SEK welcome bonus upon registration. (Terms and Conditions Apply)
Finally, 888 Casino ensures that all the technical details work just as good as the games. You are spoiled for choice with the selection of banking solutions and you are also given the option to get in touch with the 24/7 customer support team.
Casino Room
Come one, come all to the Casino Room! Where to start? Once again, we’ve got another reputable provider that has a valid Swedish license to offer casino games and services in the country.
And we’re so glad they do! You are invited to a casino room – no pun intended, packed with over 1,000 games from top gaming giants that are currently dominating the industry; NetEnt, Microgaming and Yggadrasil. We’re talking the best card games, classic casino games, slot machines and even a dose of live casino! From casino classics like Jack and the Beanstalk , Blood Suckers to the world famous Starburst, players at Casino Room can always find a game that suits their taste!
You’re also treated to a generous welcome bonus that will certainly make your experience even more exciting. (Terms and Conditions Apply)
Above everything else, you are offered a safe and secure gaming experience every single time. Given that Casino Room takes responsible gaming very seriously, this provider is happy to offer support and advice on the topic.
Latest News
ASTON MARTIN ARAMCO LAUNCHES ULTIMATE SIMULATOR USING MOTION TECHNOLOGY TO RECREATE F1 RACING
- The motion simulators, available as a limited run, are built by Memento Exclusives – Aston Martin Aramco’s sim and show car partner
- The newly developed simulator launch commemorates with Fernando Alonso’s recent 400th F1 race at the recent 2024 Mexico City Grand Prix
- Collectors and gamers can visit f1authentics.com to learn more
Aston Martin Aramco F1® Team is bringing its fans closer than ever to the experience of becoming an F1® driver, with the launch of brand-new motion simulators.
Motion simulators are created by an expert team at Memento Exclusives – the memorabilia specialist based in Motorsport Valley – utilising the same processes as F1® teams, to offer an unrivalled racing experience. Designed to recreate the famous race cars seen on the tracks, these Aston Martin Aramco’s Motion Simulators boast high tech systems which aim to immerse the racer, offering them the chance to experience every twist and turn around iconic racing circuits.
Aston Martin Aramco F1® Team and Memento Exclusives have made simulators available to the public in iconic racing green before, but adding movement to the simulation experience is set to take sim racing to new heights. Each motion simulator has been developed in partnership with the race team at Silverstone, and features haptic actuators, a front pivot configuration and haptic rumble feedback. This advancement offers gamers and racers true authenticity, with the motion of a real F1® car accurately emulated from the moment they jump into the cockpit.
Motion simulators are just one of the ways Aston Martin Aramco F1® Team is innovating with technology in recent times. Lance Stroll has been noted for his sim work over the years and revealed ahead of the 2023 Bahrain Grand Prix that he partially rehabilitated a broken wrist by practicing in a simulator. He famously went on to finish sixth in that race. Spanish legend Fernando Alonso, who recently celebrated his 400th Grand Prix at the 2024 Mexico City Grand Prix, has also lent his voice to emerging technology with Ai.lonso – offering visitors to the Aston Martin Aramco website the ability to hear selected articles read in his voice in multiple languages.
Barry Gough, CEO & Founder of Memento Exclusives (F1 Authentics) commented: “We are delighted to announce the next phase in our partnership with Aston Martin Aramco; these motion simulators take sim racing to the next level, providing gamers and racers with the closest experience to racing an actual F1 car. This launch, commemorating Fernando Alonso’s 400th Grand Prix and recognising Lance Stroll’s history with simulators, is a testament to this partnership and the technological advancements here at Memento Exclusives, offering new ways for fans to own the moment.”
Matt Chapman, Head of Licensing and Merchandise, Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team: “This is a really exciting collaboration with our partner Memento Exclusives, bringing the world of Formula One to life for sim racers, collectors and our fans alike. The look and feel of the motion simulator makes it an immersive experience and the addition of movement builds upon the previous simulators we have collaborated on together.”
Aston Martin Motion Simulators are only available in limited numbers and via f1authentics.com or Memento Exclusives’ private sale service.
Asia
Gujarat Titans’ Inaugural “Titans Rising” BGMI Tournament Crowns Champion, Sets Stage for Future Esports Initiatives
Gujarat Titans is thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of the first-ever “Titans Rising” BGMI tournament, held from October 6th to 27th, 2024. The tournament showcased the incredible talent and passion within the Indian BGMI community, culminating in a thrilling Grand Finale showdown on October 27th. The first ever Titans Rising champions were MOGO Esports.
In a unique gesture that bridged the gap between traditional sports and Esports, the selected players of the 2024 “Titans Rising” tournament will interact and play alongside Gujarat Titans cricket players in a special mixed-team event during the 2025 season. Marquee Esports athletes and gaming content creators like Tanmay “Sc0utOP” Singh, Deepak “Sensei” Negi and many others will be seen collaborating with Gujarat Titans for some exciting content projects in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League. This initiative will not only provide a unique and rewarding experience for the winning team but also create exciting crossover content for fans of both cricket and Esports.
“Titans Rising” was designed to provide a platform for aspiring BGMI players across India to compete at the highest level. The tournament structure featured a tiered qualification system, starting with open qualifiers that were accessible to all. The overwhelming interest and reach of the tournament was evident with 2,048 teams registered for the open qualifiers. These teams battled it out with winners advancing through the pre-quarters, quarter-finals, and semi-finals. The pre-quarter finals saw the qualified teams pooled with 32 invited professional teams, raising the stakes and intensity of the competition.
Fans across the country had front-row seats to the action, as the entire tournament was broadcast live on the official Gujarat Titans YouTube channel. This broadcast generated impressive viewership metrics: 3.2 million views and 287,000 watched hours. Over 50 Million impressions and 2.1 Million engagements were recorded across GT’s YouTube and social media platforms during the tournament. These numbers underscore the significant reach and engagement of the tournament, solidifying Gujarat Titans’ prominent presence within the Esports community.
A substantial prize pool of ₹2,200,000 was up for grabs, rewarding the top-performing teams and players for their skill and dedication. Beyond the team prizes, individual awards such as “Most Valuable Titan,” “Man of the Maps,” and “Best IGL” recognized exceptional individual contributions and further fueled the competitive spirit. Apart from these gratifying accolades, the Titans Rising tournament honoured the hustle of young and aspiring e-athletes with awards like “Rising Titans” and “Rising Titans Squad” that aim to empower those who wish to rise in ranks within the world of Esports.
On the success of the first ever Esport tournament organized by any IPL Team, Col. Arvinder Singh, COO-Gujarat Titans said, “”We’re thrilled by the success of Titans Rising and the enthusiastic response of our fans. As the first IPL franchise to enter the Esports arena, Titans Rising created a unique experience that was enjoyed by a new set of fans while providing another avenue of engagement for our existing fan base. Gujarat Titans shall continue to explore new and contemporary avenues to further enhance engagement with our fans and supporters.”
Gujarat Titans is committed to nurturing the growth of the community and creating opportunities for aspiring players. “Titans Rising” is not just a one-off event but a cornerstone of Gujarat Titans’ long-term Esports strategy.
Industry News
Gaming Corps to launch with lotteries in the USA via EQL games deal
In-demand content provider extends reach into largest iGaming market in the world with its full suite of games made available via iLottery aggregation platform
Gaming Corps, a publicly-listed game studio based in Sweden renowned for creating industry-leading games, has made its debut in the US market through a breakthrough agreement with leading lottery provider, EQL Games.
The distribution agreement will see Gaming Corps’ full suite of games made available to EQL Games’ powerful iLottery Aggregation Platform, developed to provide lottery operators across America with direct access to a portfolio of proprietary and third-party games.
Following the integration, EQL Games’ lottery operator partners will be offered proven Slots, Table Games, Multiplier Games, Mine Games and Plinko Games, as well as titles under Gaming Corps’ innovative and trademarked Smash4Cash™ series.
The deal and integration come at a time of growing demand among online lottery operators in the US for non-traditional content, a format that Gaming Corps has excelled in, especially with its Smash4Cash™ games, which have been a hit with players in global markets.
EQL’s aggregation platform has been developed to allow online lottery operators to quickly and easily access content from multiple game studios simultaneously through one integration and one commercial agreement.
Its iLottery Aggregation platform simplifies the process of adding new games to an online lottery brand across regulated states. In addition to the third-party content provided via its aggregator platform, EQL Games has a portfolio of in-house titles.
This includes games produced under licence with Team USA which were rolled out by several state lotteries for the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris this year, with new titles being planned ahead of the Winter Games in Milan (2026) and the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles (2028).
Juha Kauppinen, CEO of Gaming Corps, said: “The USA has always been somewhat of the holy grail for game developers like us, which has been further emphasised as markets in several states have become regulated. The potential in the American market is enormous, and the impact for us is a bit difficult to assess, but we have great hopes for the collaboration with EQL Games, which has an impressive platform towards U.S. lotteries.
“We believe it will have a significantly positive impact on our revenues. I would like to personally take the opportunity to thank EQL Games and Brad Cummings for the collaboration, and we are now working hard to complete the integration so that all our games will be offered to EQL’s customers via their platform.”
Brad Cummings, CEO of EQL Games, added: “Including Gaming Corps as a supplier to the EQL Games iLottery Aggregator is an exciting step forward in our mission to offer unique, high-quality content to state lotteries. Gaming Corps’ expertise in iGaming, along with their unique game portfolio, fits perfectly with our vision of enhancing the lottery experience through dynamic and engaging content.”
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