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What Can European Markets Learn from the Online Casino Industry in New Zealand and Australia?

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It was recently revealed that we may be on the precipice of a crackdown on unlicensed Australian sites, after it was revealed that operators were targeting players without being accredited by The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).

However, the really telling number here was the approximate size of the online GGY in the Asia-Pacific region as a whole, with estimates placing this between $65 billion and $90 billion per annum.

This augurs well for markets such as New Zealand and Australia, which are open to operators from across the globe despite prohibiting domestic operators from targeting players. But what lessons can European markets learn from the industry in the Asia-Pacific region?

 

The Importance of a Single Regulatory Framework

Of course, the European iGaming market features the 27 remaining members of the single bloc (amongst others), who despite cooperation on most matters of trade and commerce, operate completely different laws when it comes to online gambling.

In fact, the regulatory frameworks for online gambling are noticeably diverse across the continent, especially when you compare countries in the west with those in the east.

This represents something of a challenge for players and regulators alike, especially when you consider the impact of freedom of movement with the EU. More specifically, the availability of casino games and sports betting varies considerably from one country to another, so those who regularly cross these borders may find it hard to understand their rights and responsibilities as players in real-time.

Conversely, both Australia and New Zealand operate a clear and singular regulatory framework, which is easy to understand for both operators and players alike.

Similarly, these entities are accountable to identifiable and omnipotent regulatory bodies, namely the aforementioned ACMA and the New Zealand Gambling Commission.

At the same time, operators are beholden to clearly-defined and specific laws in the regions, with any licensed online casino in New Zealand subject to the Gambling Act of 2003.

Stakeholders in Australia are also subject to the Interactive Gambling Act of 2001 (which was updated in 2017), and the markets in Europe would definitely benefit from this type of single-minded and concise legislative approach.

 

A Clear Approach to the Use of Credit Cards

There’s also no single approach to the use of credit cards by online gamblers, despite calls for all EU member states to follow the example of the UK by banning this practice.

Interestingly, this is also something that the Australian authorities have begun to pursue tenaciously, with the nation’s Parliament hoping to initiate a law that would completely prohibit the use of credit cards and digital wallets for iGaming transactions.

This would extend the provisions already in place in brick-and-mortar casinos throughout Australia, safeguarding vulnerable players and highlighting the adverse effects on consumers across the board.

A thorough investigation is well underway, with the enquiry committee responsible expected to submit its final report by July 30th.

From a European perspective, Germany has already announced a credit card gambling ban, which was approved in 2020 and will prohibit players from funnelling funds in and out of their accounts via this method.

Similarly, Spain appeared poised to amend its own gambling legislation and prohibit the use of credit cards at the beginning of 2020, but the law has yet to be formally enacted and remains at the centre of a debate about how best to protect potentially vulnerable players.

Ultimately, there’s a lack of a clear consensus amongst European markets when it comes to credit card usage, with this partially due to uncertainty and the various counter-arguments put forward by the European Betting and Gaming Association.

This may prove counterproductive over time, with studies highlighting the danger posed by credit cards and the potential for players to accumulate debt relatively quickly.

 

The Last Word

There are some clear takeaways here, with the most obvious being the relatively disorganised regulatory approach in Europe’s iGaming markets and the way in which this contrasts with the legislative measures in Australia and New Zealand.

The lack of a standardised framework in Europe is also at odds with the close and integrated nature of EU member states, which is why the Commission has pledged to help support single bloc countries in their attempts to create far greater cooperation amongst national regulators.

This is perhaps the best lesson that European and EU iGaming markets can learn from Australia and NZ, especially if they want to create a safer and more seamless experience for their players.

 

 

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BOS agrees with KV’s/KO’s advertising assessment of “Trisskrapet” in TV4

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The Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling (BOS) agrees with the Swedish Consumer Agency’s (KV) and the Consumer Ombudsman’s (KO) assessment that the daily scratch card commercial “Trisskrapet” in TV4 is an advertising feature, and thus not an editorial feature. BOS welcomes that KO is now ending that part of the process.

If Svenska Spel does not stop the advertising elements, BOS looks forward to KV following up on its earlier call to Svenska Spel to comply with the provisions on advertising identification and broadcaster declaration in section 9 of the Marketing Act and the information obligation in ch. 15. Section 3 of the Gambling Act with information on the 18-year-old age limit and where to turn in case of gambling problems.

– The Swedish gambling market must be characterized by a high level of consumer protection. A cornerstone of good consumer protection is that people are clear about what constitutes gambling advertising, i.e. that they are not tricked into thinking that an advertising feature would instead be an editorial feature. The daily “Trisskrapet” on TV4 has been anything but clear on that point, and we welcome that KO now finally establishes that the features constitute advertising and nothing else, says Gustaf Hoffstedt.

– Now it remains for Svenska Spel to introduce the mandatory consumer protection labelling of Trisskrapet. Since the company has not shown any excessive eagerness to introduce this voluntarily, KO should ensure that this happens as soon as possible. Every day and every “Trisskrapet” that does not contain the mandatory consumer protection label is another lost day for a safe and secure gambling market, Gustaf Hoffstedt concludes.

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Expanse Studios Launches in Bulgaria with Inbet

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Expanse Studios, a leader in online gaming innovation, has secured a Bulgarian iGaming license and is now live on Inbet’s website. This expansion brings Expanse Studios’ popular game offerings including turn-based strategies gamified for iGaming, classic slots, traditional card games and the highly-acclaimed ones like Titan Roulette, Clown Fever Deluxe, Wild Icy Fruits, White Wild Whale and Joker Poker to Bulgarian players.

Diverse Gaming Portfolio Now Available to Bulgarian Players

With the Bulgarian market entry, Expanse Studios introduces a versatile gaming experience to Inbet’s platform. The offerings include a dynamic range of games tailored to diverse player preferences:

  • Turn-based strategy games: Leveraging gamification, these games transform traditional strategy gameplay into engaging iGaming experiences, suitable for both novice and experienced players.
  • Classic slots: Players will enjoy a variety of themed slots that combine traditional gameplay with modern graphics and sound.
  • Traditional card games: A selection of popular card games offer something for every card game enthusiast.
  • Titan Roulette: This standout feature, known for its immersive experience and innovative design, continues to be a favorite among roulette players.

Commitment to Quality and Compliance

Expanse Studios not only cultivates a diverse gaming library but also adheres to stringent regulatory standards to ensure a secure and fair gaming environment. The acquisition of the Bulgarian iGaming license is a testament to Expanse Studios’ commitment to compliance and excellence in the gaming industry.

The partnership between Expanse Studios and Inbet marks a significant milestone in Expanse Studios’ expansion efforts. By combining Expanse Studios’ innovative gaming solutions with Inbet’s established market presence, both entities are set to offer a superior gaming experience to players in Bulgaria and potentially beyond. As Expanse Studios continues to develop and release new games monthly, Bulgarian players can look forward to a continually evolving and enriching gaming landscape.

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Week 17/2024 slot games releases

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Week 17/2024 slot games releases
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Here are this weeks latest slots releases compiled by European Gaming

Belatra Games, the specialist online slots developer, is on point with its latest sharply designed game, Golden øks. This Norse-inspired adventure carries on from the popular Axe of Fortune title that hit the market at the turn of the year. Golden øks is set against a 5×3 layout and is brought to life with a powerful soundtrack to heighten the atmosphere.

Belatra grows games portfolio with Golden øks title

Endorphina, has announced the release of its brand-new title, Jolly Queen, which will join its portfolio on April 27th. Jolly Queen is a 5-reel, 5-row fruit slot with 50 fixed paylines, introducing players to the lifestyle of the nobles. On top of the aristocratic ambiance, Jolly Queen provides players with Free Games, allowing them to master the reels.

Endorphina releases its newest title - Jolly Queen!

Evoplay has released Candy Craze, a vibrant slot stacked with features and modifiers, including the powerful Gum Drop Multiplier which boosts win potential. Set amidst the backdrop of sumptuous sweets within a cloudy landscape, the 5×5 cascading reels title gives players a sugary rush when the Gum Drop Multiplier activates, revealing a mystery value at the end of each winning spin up to x100, enhancing the chance for wins during the main game and Free Spins.

Yggdrasil, a leading iGaming publisher, has revived the gold rush in a jackpot-filled game that embodies the spirit of old west prospecting in Gold Frontier Jackpots FastPot5™. Fans of lower volatility slots with straightforward mechanics that get fortune seekers right to the heart of the action are tasked with gathering keys to enter the treasure bonus game.

Relax Gaming is offering players some opulence in its latest release Sultan Spins. This high volatility slot sees its gold-trimmed reels set against a sprawling desert metropolis. Players have the chance to rack up riches via an entertaining free spins feature and lucrative local jackpot.

Greentube has introduced its latest title in the popular Diamond Link ™ series, Diamond Link ™: Mighty Dwarves Inc. Set deep in underground mines, this adventurous 5×3 slot is packed with innovative features for ample chance to win across its 25 paylines when players spin the reels adorned with hammers, hard hats and laser symbols.

Get your eyes ready because it’s time to take a trip to the pet centre to meet the ugliest, quirkiest, wildest-looking pets you’ve ever seen in the brand new slot, Fugly Pets, from Stakelogic. Fugly Pets takes players to a banged-up old pet store to explore its collection of weird and charming, downright ugly pets. Meet a scruffy parrot, a catnip crazed kitty, and an unfortunate-looking little dog.

 

 

Load your tackle box, bait your hook and get ready to reel in the catch of the day in Fishin’ The Biggest from Apparat Gaming, the in-demand German software provider’s latest splash hit slot that sees players trawl the sea for free spins and massively multiplied prizes. Played over five reels, three rows and ten fixed paylines, Fishin’ The Biggest is a highly-volatile title with an outdoor angling theme.

Thunderkick has announced the launch of Midas Golden Touch 2, the highly-anticipated sequel to the acclaimed 2019 original. This latest release invites players to rediscover an enchanted realm where everything King Midas touches turns to gold. The 3×5 video slot boasts 15 paylines and showcases Thunderkick’s signature high-quality design and innovative features.

Belatra Games, the specialist online slots developer, has served up another classic with its tasty Chef’s Sticky Fruits slot. This latest release from Belatra’s studio  is a vibrant and juicy addition to its renowned catalogue of slots. It’s a 5×4 slot game bursting with colour that’s heightened with an upbeat, retro soundtrack that perfectly captures the essence of fun at the heart of every play.

Belatra serves up tasty Chef’s Sticky Fruits slot

3 Oaks Gaming has launched 3 China Pots: Hold and Win, the first time the company has integrated the popular 3 Pots mechanic within a Far East-themed title. The latest instalment from 3 Oaks to incorporate the 3 Pots functionality sees players transported to the allure of the Orient, where the Extra, Double and Multi modifiers influence the Bonus Game once activated.

3 Oaks Gaming presents a feature-rich trip to the Far East in 3 China Pots: Hold and Win

Pragmatic Play has unleashed roaming wild re-spins and random guaranteed wins in Release the Bison. Symbols of the American frontier abound in this 5×4 slot, where hitting four or more rampaging bison triggers the wild re-spin feature, during which all wilds roam the reels to boost win potential.

Blueprint Gaming’s latest slot release tasks players to look for the leprechaun’s pot of gold under the water rather than at the end of the rainbow in Plenty O’ Fish, a 6×4 hybrid of sea creatures and shimmering rewards. Players must look to unlock a tackle box of treasure with a jaunty leprechaun being the key to wins, lurking behind a dynamically coloured underwater background that changes when the bonus game is triggered.

Booming Games has launched its latest sweet sensation to its collection of engaging slot games – Fruit Heaven Hold and Win™. This is a deliciously designed 5×3 slot game with 25 paylines, which promises players an exciting experience full of fantastic fruity features and Stacked Wilds.

Wazdan is multiplying jackpots in the follow-up to its top-performing game Mighty Wild™: Panther Grand Gold Edition. Venturing to the depths of the jungle where a black panther rules the reels on a 5×3 gameboard, the new edition provides even larger win potential. With the increased value of the Cash symbols and Cash Infinity™ symbols, there is also a more lucrative Grand Jackpot of 1500x the base bet.

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