State-owned gambling operator Norsk Tipping has announced stricter loss limits for players aged 20 to 24. The new measures, effective February 1, 2025, aim to further protect young adults from gambling-related risks.
New Loss Limits for Young Players
Under the updated policy, players aged 20 to 21 can lose no more than NOK 3,000 per month, while those between 22 and 24 will face a slightly higher limit of NOK 5,000. These caps apply to all games available through Norsk Tipping.
This follows a prior decision in May 2023 to set a maximum monthly loss limit of NOK 2,000 for players aged 18 to 20. For those aged 25 and above, the current cap remains at NOK 20,000 per month, with higher-risk games like online slots and casinos subject to a stricter limit of NOK 5,000.
Protecting Vulnerable Young Gamblers
Norsk Tipping emphasized that these adjustments are necessary to shield young adults, a demographic identified as being particularly susceptible to gambling problems. Research from the University of Bergen and the Norwegian Gambling Helpline underscores that individuals under 25 are at greater risk of developing gambling disorders.
Internal surveys conducted by Norsk Tipping revealed that one in five men aged 18 to 25 is at risk of harmful gambling behavior. Financial vulnerability, combined with increasing living costs, exacerbates the challenges faced by younger players.
“Young people generally have more vulnerable finances than older people. Higher living costs generally increase this vulnerability. Young people therefore end up in trouble more quickly if their losses are large and frequent,” Norsk Tipping explained.
Head of Responsible Gaming Supports Stricter Limits
Bjørn Helge Hoffmann, Norsk Tipping’s Head of Responsible Gaming, endorsed the reduction in loss limits as a key measure in preventing gambling-related harm.
“The most important accountability measure is that players must set their own limits before they play, and on average, players set their limit to NOK 3,600 per month,” Hoffmann stated. “For those who are unable to limit themselves, the maximum loss limit is an important safety net. When this limit is lowered, it will contribute to the prevention of problem gambling and it will limit the damage for those who still have problems.”
Norsk Tipping also noted an increase in the number of young people engaging with gambling platforms, further justifying the need for tighter restrictions.
Setting a Global Standard
Norway’s gambling market, which is known for its stringent protections against gambling harm, continues to set high standards for responsible gaming. However, Norsk Tipping acknowledges that more can be done to enhance safeguards, especially for younger demographics.
With these updated measures, the operator hopes to create a safer gambling environment while reinforcing its commitment to player welfare.
Source:
Norsk Tipping sets lower monthly loss limits for younger players, igamingbusiness.com, January 15, 2025.