RubyPlay has taken another step in strengthening its position within Spain’s regulated online gaming sector through a new agreement with Paf Group. The partnership went live on December 1 and marks a further expansion of RubyPlay’s distribution footprint across European markets where Paf already operates.

As part of the arrangement, Paf has incorporated several of RubyPlay’s titles into its Spanish portfolio. Among the titles now available to players are J Mania Lucky Pyggs, Vegas No Limit Wins SE, and Giga Match Moolah, each representing different themes and mechanics from the provider’s catalog. The integration supports Paf’s ongoing strategy to broaden the variety of content available through its online platform.

Paf Set to Add Koala Games Releases

The collaboration also extends to future titles developed under RubyPlay’s expanding multi-studio structure. Koala Games, an independent studio launched under the RubyPlay umbrella, will contribute new releases to Paf’s line-up. Its latest title, Voltage Blitz Rapid, is expected to join the collection in the near future.

RubyPlay emphasized that its multi-studio setup allows operators such as Paf to access content from multiple development teams through a unified system. The structure supports faster rollout schedules and a wider mix of gameplay styles while enabling the provider to react more efficiently to evolving trends in regional markets.

Paf Group is active across several regulated European jurisdictions and is known for its focus on responsible entertainment. RubyPlay stated that the partnership aligns with Paf’s approach, noting that the operator aims to deliver engaging yet sustainable experiences to players in Spain and beyond.

Executives Highlight Strategic Alignment

RubyPlay CPO Dr. Eyal Loz said the company views the agreement as a continuation of its growth trajectory within Spain. “We are excited to partner with Paf Group as we continue to build momentum in Spain.

Their reputation for responsible gaming and innovation makes them an ideal match for RubyPlay’s studio’s content and values.“The ability to deliver games from both RubyPlay and Koala Games as part of the collaboration reflects the strength of our multi-studio strategy.”

Paf also expressed optimism about the partnership. Eric Castro, Head of Content, Casino & Games at Paf Group, said, “RubyPlay’s games bring a fresh and engaging experience to our players. We’re confident this partnership will strengthen our portfolio and complement our player-first philosophy.“We see this as the start of a strong, long-term collaboration that will drive engagement and sustainable growth across our Spanish operation.”

Partnership Reinforces RubyPlay’s Wider Expansion

The agreement builds on recent RubyPlay activity across multiple regions. The provider has expanded through partnerships such as its New Jersey launch via BetMGM and integrations through QTech Games. RubyPlay content has also been added by SkillOnNet in several markets.

According to RubyPlay, the Spanish partnership highlights the flexibility of its distribution network, which can deliver content from different internal studios through a single channel. The company sees this structure as a way to diversify its catalog and enhance how it responds to operator needs in regulated jurisdictions.

For Paf, the collaboration adds new options for players while supporting its emphasis on responsible gaming within Spain’s regulated online environment.

Source:

RubyPlay extends Spanish reach: new partnership with Paf Group, rubyplay.com, 1st December 2025

The post RubyPlay Expands in Spain Through Paf Partnership appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Momentum, the operator responsible for the UAE’s sole licensed lottery, has expanded its footprint with the launch of two online gambling services: TrueWin and Dream Island. The rollout introduces full casino and sportsbook offerings to players in the Emirates, even though no formal legislative framework explicitly legalizing online gambling has been released to the public. Both platforms are already active and accessible, presenting a significant development in a market that has been moving gradually toward regulated gaming activity.

Two Platforms Offering Full Casino and Sports Betting Content

The platforms provide a wide catalogue of games and betting opportunities. Players can access live dealer tables, poker, roulette, and slot titles, along with wagering options across multiple sports such as football, tennis, cricket, basketball, and others. This represents one of the most extensive online gambling product selections currently available within the country.

Momentum’s preparations for these platforms appear to have been underway for some time. The company previously advertised for a commercial director for an online casino and sportsbook brand several months before this launch. Domain records also indicate long-term planning: TrueWin was registered in March 2023, while Dream Island’s registration dates back to 2020, both predating the establishment of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in September 2023.

Industry projections highlight the potential scale of revenue the UAE could achieve if gaming becomes fully regulated. Analysts estimate that gambling activity might ultimately reach the equivalent of 1.3% of national GDP, or around US$6.6 billion, a figure that exceeds the performance of established gaming hubs such as Singapore.

Momentum’s expansion arrives as other gaming-related projects continue to move forward. A major integrated resort by Wynn Resorts is progressing in Ras Al Khaimah, reflecting broader development goals within the Emirates. The regulator has also issued various operator and supplier licenses over the past two years, including those for major providers such as Aristocrat, Light & Wonder, IGT, Konami, and Sportradar.

A Shifting Regulatory Landscape

The legal status of online gambling in the UAE remains complex. While no publicly available law confirms a regulated online gambling framework, the GCGRA has been actively issuing permissions and listings connected to gaming operations. Another operator, Coin Technology Projects LLC, recently appeared on the GCGRA’s website, seemingly offering online gaming services through a platform named Play 971. Information suggests a link between this entity, Play 971, and Momentum.

Reports also indicate that the regulator may adopt a licensing model structured around one B2C online gaming licence per emirate, mirroring the approach expected for land-based casino licensing. This aligns with the broader trend of gradual but coordinated regulatory development across the country.

In a related update, GGRAsia reported that the TrueWin site is set to replace Dream Island entirely. Dream Island will “permanently close” on December 10, with users being redirected to TrueWin. This consolidation positions TrueWin as Momentum’s primary online platform moving forward.

Momentum’s presence is further connected through The Game LLC, the first company to receive a UAE lottery licence in July 2024. The Game LLC describes itself as part of Momentum Group, listing a base in Abu Dhabi.

Growing Industry Anticipation Amid Major Developments

The introduction of these platforms coincides with heightened expectations surrounding the future of gambling regulation in the UAE. The investment community views the current momentum—supported by major projects such as Wynn Al Marjan Island—as a signal of the Emirates’ long-term intentions. Wynn’s resort is approaching full structural height and is targeting a spring 2027 opening, marking the country’s anticipated debut into large-scale land-based casino operations.

The recent departure of Kevin Mullally from the GCGRA earlier this month adds another notable transition within the regulatory framework. Mullally had joined the authority in 2023, during its early development stage. As the environment continues to evolve, the introduction of TrueWin and Dream Island establishes Momentum as a major participant in what may become one of the region’s most significant new regulated markets.

Source: 

Online betting and online casino platform launched in UAE: report, ggrasia.com, December 1, 2025.

The post UAE Lottery Operator Launches TrueWin and Dream Island Platforms appeared first on Keno Wizard.

South Africa’s National Treasury has unveiled a proposal that could significantly alter the country’s online gambling landscape. The government is seeking public feedback on the draft of a 20% national tax on gross gambling revenue (GGR) from online betting and interactive gambling. With the online gambling sector booming, this tax is part of the government’s broader plan to address the rise in problem gambling, while also increasing tax revenues.

The National Tax and Its Objectives

In the discussion paper, the Treasury has highlighted the dual goals of the proposed tax: generating additional revenue for the government and curbing the social issues arising from the rise in online gambling. The Treasury emphasized that “recreational gamblers do not place any external costs on society,” but “problem and pathological gambling impose a cost,” justifying the regulation. The goal of this tax, it stated, is to tackle those negative social consequences, which have been growing at an alarming rate with the surge in online gambling.

This 20% national levy would be in addition to the existing provincial gambling taxes, bringing the total tax burden on online gambling to between 26% and 29%. According to Treasury projections, the tax could generate upwards of R10 billion annually by 2029, helping to offset the societal costs linked to gambling addiction and other related issues.

The Impact of Online Gambling’s Growth

South Africa has witnessed significant changes in its gambling landscape, largely due to the rapid rise in online gambling. Technological advancements and widespread internet access, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, have made gambling more accessible than ever before. The National Treasury noted that “gambling is now easily available online and accessible almost anywhere and at any time.”

The National Gambling Board (NGB) has also reported impressive growth in the gambling sector, with total turnover in 2024/2025 reaching an astonishing R1.5 trillion, up 31.3% from the previous year. Online sports betting and the National Lottery have proven especially popular, accounting for a large share of this growth. However, the rapid expansion of the sector has not come without its challenges.

The NGB revealed that illegal gambling now makes up around 62% of the country’s total gambling activity, with many unlicensed offshore operators skirting local laws and evading taxes. This is proving to be a significant challenge for regulators trying to keep up with the cross-border nature of online gambling.

Outdated Gambling Legislation and the Need for Reform

South Africa’s gambling laws, which stem from the National Gambling Act of 2004, have struggled to keep up with the modern, tech-driven gambling world. While some provinces, like the Western Cape and Mpumalanga, have adapted by offering online gambling licenses, many other regions have been unable to regulate this growing sector effectively.

To address these gaps and create a more unified regulatory environment, the Treasury’s proposed national tax aims to simplify and standardize the tax structure. This would prevent individual provinces from undercutting each other with lower tax rates to attract online operators. By consolidating the tax burden at the national level, the government hopes to better address the challenges posed by the booming online gambling market.

The Treasury has also looked at international best practices, noting that many countries with large online gambling markets, including several European nations and Australia, have implemented similar or even higher tax rates. These countries often use the tax revenue to fund addiction treatment programs and implement stricter gambling regulations. South Africa plans to follow suit, using the revenue from the national tax to fund programs aimed at mitigating the harms caused by problem gambling.

However, the Treasury has warned that a tax rate set too high could drive gamblers toward illegal, unregulated platforms, which would only worsen the social issues the tax is intended to address.

Public Consultation Process

The Treasury has made the draft proposal available for public comment, encouraging stakeholders to submit their feedback. The consultation period will end on January 30, 2026, and the government will consider these views before moving forward with the proposed tax. This public consultation is crucial in ensuring that the tax structure is fair and that its benefits are maximized while minimizing the negative impact on consumers.

Source:

South Africa proposes 20% national tax on online gambling amid growth, news.worldcasinodirectory.com, November 27, 2025

The post South Africa Proposes 20% National Tax on Online Gambling appeared first on Keno Wizard.

The UK government has set the stage for one of the most significant shifts in gambling taxation in recent years, confirming that remote gaming duty will almost double from 21% to 40% beginning in April 2026. The decision, revealed when the Office for Budgetary Responsibility (OBR) published its autumn budget analysis ahead of schedule, places online gambling at the center of the Treasury’s revenue strategy. Alongside the steep rise in remote gaming duty, an additional restructuring of digital taxation will follow in April 2027 with a new 25% general betting duty applied specifically to online betting profits. The higher rate will not apply to spread betting, pool betting or horseracing, and wagers placed at self-service betting terminals will be exempt.

New Tax Structure Alters the Landscape for Remote Operators

The government expects the combined measures to generate substantial additional revenue. According to official projections, the changes will raise £4 billion in 2025-26, with receipts increasing to £5 billion the following year and reaching an extra £1.1 billion annually by 2029-30. However, the Treasury also anticipates behavioural reactions: operators are expected to pass on as much as 90% of their increased duty costs to consumers, which is forecast to suppress demand and reduce the long-term yield by £500 million.

This restructuring follows months of consultation. Earlier in the year, HM Revenue & Customs and the Treasury proposed consolidating the current three-tier system — remote gaming duty, remote betting duty and gaming machine duty — into a single framework. Industry groups warned that any major increase in remote betting duty would hit the retail and horse racing sectors especially hard. Various think tanks entered the debate and argued for even higher rates, with some recommending remote gaming duty be raised to 50%.

The Treasury Select Committee subsequently examined potential tax formats and questioned operators and think-tank experts about the relationship between gambling taxes and problem gambling. Its report ultimately recommended taxing gambling verticals based on their relative risk levels — a principle reflected in the government’s final package. The chancellor, Rachel Reeves, emphasized this approach when presenting the Budget to Parliament, stating that remote gambling is linked to “the highest levels of harm” and would therefore face the sharpest increase.

Racing Spared While Bingo Duty is Removed

While remote operators face unprecedented fiscal pressure, land-based betting and horseracing received clear protection. The Budget confirmed that in-person betting duty will remain unchanged, while Horseracing Betting Duty stays at 15%. Bingo duty — long criticized for squeezing margins at a time of declining footfall — will be abolished from April 2026, and casino gaming duty bands will stay frozen for 2026–27.

Racing bodies welcomed the government’s decision to shield the sector. British Horseracing Authority Acting Chief Executive Brant Dunshea said:

“Today’s welcome outcome demonstrates that the Chancellor has listened to our concerns and rightly recognised that racing is a unique national asset culturally, socially and economically, and we welcome this support.

Betting on racing is an integral part of the enjoyment of our sport, and maintaining the rate of horserace betting duties is an important step by the Government to help preserve revenue streams and protect the 85,000 jobs supported by the racing sector across the country.
Racing has been part of the British way of life for hundreds of years. It binds our communities together through shared experience, brings joy to millions, and puts the country on the world stage. It is right that the Government has understood this and acted accordingly.

At the same time, we recognise that the increase in general taxation on the betting industry may have trickle-down effects on racing. We will work with our partners in the betting industry to understand the implications of this, and how we can work together to ensure that British horseracing continues to thrive.”

Others across the racing ecosystem echoed the sentiment. The Racecourse Association praised the exemption but warned that wider budget changes still pose challenges. Arena Racing Company said it prevented a “serious structural blow” to the sector, while the National Trainers Federation described the outcome as a relief, noting that the sport “lives to fight another day.” The Jockey Club also welcomed the clarity and emphasized racing’s cultural and economic significance.

Industry Response and Economic Fallout

The reaction from gambling operators was swift and severe. Shares across the market fluctuated sharply as firms issued profit warnings and outlined cost-cutting plans even before the Budget speech had concluded. Flutter Entertainment plans to reduce costs by 20% within six months of the new duty coming into force, rising to 40% thereafter. Evoke Holdings, which owns William Hill and 888, withdrew its medium-term targets and is reportedly considering divesting its Italian assets after estimating that annual duty costs will reach £125–£135 million. Rank Group projected a £40 million hit but saw its share price climb due to the abolition of bingo duty.

Entain, operator of Ladbrokes and Coral, warned of roughly £200 million in additional annual costs and said it was “deeply appalled” by the fiscal changes, which it expects will cut underlying profit by £150 million by 2027. The Betting & Gaming Council said the measures were a “devastating hammer blow to tens of thousands of people working in the industry,” and argued that increased taxation “is a massive win for the incredibly harmful, unsafe, unregulated gambling black market.”

The government acknowledged potential migration toward illicit operators and allocated £26 million over three years to the Gambling Commission to strengthen enforcement efforts.

Across the London Stock Exchange, the sector saw more than £8 billion wiped from market capitalisation on Budget day, fuelling questions about whether the Treasury’s revenue projections can withstand potential player displacement.

Source:

Online betting firms to pay billions more in UK tax, Reeves confirms, theguardian.com, November 26, 2025.

The post UK Remote Gaming Duty Doubles to 40% as New Tax Regime Unveiled appeared first on Keno Wizard.

The merger between Evolution Malta Holding Limited and Galaxy Gaming, Inc. has entered a new phase, with both companies confirming an extended timeline as they work toward securing the last of the necessary gaming approvals. The updated schedule underscores the partners’ intention to complete the transaction while respecting the pace of the U.S. regulatory process.

Extended Timeline Signals Continued Commitment

Evolution and Galaxy previously outlined plans for a merger in which Galaga Merger Sub, Inc. — a wholly owned subsidiary of Evolution — would combine with Galaxy Gaming, leaving Galaxy as a fully integrated subsidiary under Evolution’s ownership. The companies have now mutually opted to push the “outside date” of the Merger Agreement to July 17, 2026, reinforcing their shared dedication to seeing the deal through.

The new deadline allows sufficient room for the completion of approvals from remaining U.S. gaming regulators. Both parties emphasized that this adjustment does not reflect any concerns about the transaction itself, but rather their intention to align with established review timelines. Mississippi’s approval, granted in November 2025, marked an important step forward, and the partners expect the remaining authorizations to be obtained during the first quarter of 2026.

Evolution noted that the revised agreement underscores its full confidence in the process ahead. As CEO Martin Carlesund stated: “We remain fully committed to completing the acquisition of Galaxy Gaming and are confident in the progress toward regulatory approvals. This extension reflects our respect for the review processes of U.S. gaming regulators, and our shared determination to bring two complementary businesses together. Galaxy Gaming’s innovative products and technology will strengthen Evolution’s position and enable us to deliver even greater value to our customers worldwide.”

He added that after the transaction closes, Galaxy Gaming will continue to operate as an independent business unit within Evolution: “Following close, we look forward to supporting Galaxy Gaming’s operation as an independent business unit within Evolution, preserving its unique culture while leveraging our global reach and resources to accelerate growth.”

Regulatory Review and Anticipated Closing

Both companies highlighted that the remaining milestone before closing is the satisfaction of the Gaming Approval Closing Condition. Once all gaming authorities issue their approvals, this requirement is fulfilled, allowing the transaction to proceed to the final stages.

Galaxy Gaming CEO Matt Reback described the momentum behind the merger as encouraging for both teams: “We are energized by the progress toward closing and the tremendous opportunities ahead. This transaction brings together two world-class, customer-focused teams and positions us to deliver exceptional experiences across both land-based and online channels. With Evolution’s global reach and financial strength, Galaxy Gaming will accelerate innovation and growth while preserving the independence and identity that define our brand.”

Reback also emphasized the future collaborative potential, stating: “Post-close, we will build on our proven collaboration to drive omni-channel innovation and create even greater value for our partners and players worldwide.”

With regulatory progress expected early in 2026, both parties have reiterated that closing should occur shortly after those approvals are finalized. The combination is positioned to bring together two complementary portfolios of casino technology, enhancing offerings for customers globally while maintaining Galaxy’s established identity.

Source:

Evolution And Galaxy Gaming Extend Merger Agreement As Acquisition Progresses; Remaining Regulatory Approvals Are Anticipated In Q1 2026, mb.cision.com, November 25, 2025, 2pm CET

The post Evolution, Galaxy Extend Merger Timeline Into 2026 appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Swintt and Eurobet.it are preparing to broaden their collaboration in Italy’s online casino sector, following a promising first month for the supplier’s Elysium Studios catalogue. After entering the country through an exclusive partnership at the end of October, Swintt has seen rapid player engagement with its initial wave of titles, prompting the company to seek permission to introduce additional games on the platform.

The rollout began with Pirates Pledge Hold & Win, Battle of Myths, Supa Crew, Wizardz World and Crystalium. These early titles gained momentum quickly, becoming some of the standout performers on Eurobet.it. According to both companies, the strong response from Italian customers has set the stage for a second wave of releases. Swintt is now awaiting regulatory clearance to continue its expansion, with A Hopping Kiss and Enigma of Egypt earmarked as the next additions once approval is secured.

Continued Growth of the Elysium Studios Line-Up

The supplier’s progressive approach to strengthening its Italian footprint aligns with Eurobet.it’s strategy of being first to offer new, innovative content. Swintt has emphasized that increasing the presence of its Elysium Studios titles will provide further visibility across the Italian market, reinforcing the early momentum generated by its debut. The company believes that adding more variety to the platform will help maintain the heightened interest that followed its first batch of games.

Once A Hopping Kiss and Enigma of Egypt receive the necessary regulatory go-ahead, Eurobet.it players will gain access to a broader assortment of Elysium Studios slots. The second source also notes that Enigma of Egypt is described as a “recently-released expanding reels game,” while A Hopping Kiss is positioned as a “spell-binding fairytale slot,” marking a diverse expansion to the current line-up.

David Mann, Chief Executive Officer at Swintt, reiterated the significance of the early results and confirmed that further releases are already in motion. He stated: “Having only launched with Eurobet.it at the end of October, we’ve been really encouraged by the reception our Elysium Studios titles have received from Italian players and work is already underway to roll out our next round of releases.

“With both A Hopping Kiss and Enigma of Egypt ear-marked to launch on the platform in the coming months, our ongoing partnership with Eurobet will ensure we remain firmly in the public eye and can build on the early momentum created by our strong start to life in the Italian market.”

Eurobet.it Strengthens Its Competitive Position

For Eurobet.it, being the exclusive launch partner for Swintt in Italy provides a meaningful advantage within a market that values first-to-market content. As the operator continues to diversify its selection of casino software providers, Swintt becomes another key addition to its already extensive portfolio. This positioning enhances Eurobet.it’s status as a platform that continually prioritizes new and premium content.

Claudia De Santis, Head of Gaming Integrations & Operations at Eurobet.it, emphasized the importance of maintaining this competitive approach. She said: “At Eurobet.it, our strategy focuses on distinguishing our offer by securing the market’s most innovative content first. Partnering with Swintt allows us to maintain this competitive edge. We are thrilled to be the exclusive launch partner for Swintt in Italy; adding ‘Pirate Pledge Hold & Win’ to our library reinforces our commitment to delivering premium, first-to-market experiences to our players.”

As Swintt moves forward with regulatory processes and prepares the next wave of titles, both partners appear positioned to continue building on the early success of the Elysium Studios rollout. The expanding catalogue marks the next step in a collaboration that has already made a strong impact during its first month in the Italian market.

Source:

Swintt titles take Italy by storm following Eurobet partnership, swintt.com, November 24, 2025.

The post Swintt Set to Expand Elysium Line-Up on Eurobet.it appeared first on Keno Wizard.

A new name has entered the online gaming development space, and it arrives with a clear vision and an unmistakably vibrant identity. Red Papaya, now officially introduced as the latest studio powered by Microgaming, is positioning itself as a creator of slot titles that merge data, inventive mechanics, and cinematic production quality. The company’s arrival adds another contender to a highly competitive market, backed by a team with a long-standing track record of success.

A Studio Built on Experience and Strong Design Ambitions

Red Papaya’s founders bring an award-winning background, having previously delivered numerous top-performing slots shaped by a deep understanding of data and player behaviour. Their history working across a broad spectrum of themes, mechanics, and geographic markets has become a defining influence on how the new studio approaches game creation.

Innovation in slot features is set to be a major hallmark of Red Papaya’s portfolio. The team intends to integrate a diverse range of mechanics – Hold & Win, Cash Collect, Bonus Buy, Jackpot, Pot Link and Maxways – into its releases. This combination of familiar favourites and trend-driven formats is expected to be a distinguishing factor in the studio’s early identity.

Production quality will also take centre stage. The studio intends to push expectations through high-end visual direction, enriched sound design, and story-driven content designed to immerse players in detailed worlds. Characters, plotlines, and environmental elements will all play a pivotal role in shaping the feel of each title.

A Strong Start with Kong’s Jungle Tower and a Packed Roadmap

Red Papaya’s launch pipeline begins with its first title, Kong’s Jungle Tower, expected to roll out within weeks. The debut game sends players deep into forgotten territories, charting a journey through dense jungle scenery and mysterious temple architecture where hidden riches await discovery. Its release serves as the first public glimpse into Red Papaya’s creative direction.

A succession of additional games is already planned, supported by what the studio describes as a strategic roadmap built around varied player preferences. The team aims to maintain a steady release rhythm while offering exclusive launch windows and opportunities for custom-branded versions of their games—options that will appeal to operators seeking unique content.

Madelein Ozok, Head of Studio at Red Papaya, highlighted the studio’s confidence during the announcement. “We are so excited to finally break cover – Red Papaya has been built on many decades of industry experience, so we’re ready to hit the ground running. Of course, this would not be possible without the backing of Microgaming.

“Our product roadmap is incredibly strong with our first slot set to hit the market later this month. And make no mistake about it, our pipeline is packed with hits.

“Red Papaya is all about colourful disruption via cutting edge slots that combine creativity, features and data to deliver world-class experiences that hit the mark with players spin after spin. We are ready, but are you?

“In the meantime, make sure to learn more about Red Papaya on the newly-launched microgaming.io website”

The message underscores not only the studio’s readiness but also its reliance on Microgaming’s infrastructure, which forms the foundation of its early momentum. With the launch announcement concluded simply with “ENDS,” the studio aims to let its creations speak for themselves as its catalogue begins to unfold.

Source: 

Introducing Red Papaya – a studio powered by Microgaming, November 24, 2025

The post Red Papaya Studio Debuts with Microgaming Support appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Sri Lanka is preparing for a major regulatory shift as the Gambling Regulatory Authority Act, No. 17 of 2025, officially takes effect on 1 December. The move follows a gazette issued by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on 16 November and marks the transition toward a single, nationwide framework for overseeing all forms of gambling activity.

The legislation completed its journey through Parliament in August, when lawmakers passed the bill unanimously before it received certification from Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne on 3 September. According to the gazetted declaration, the provisions of the Act “shall come into operation” on 1 December 2025. The Morning also confirmed that President Dissanayake issued the required Gazette notification for the law to take effect, reiterating the government’s decision to shift toward a consolidated regulatory model.

Creation of a Single National Regulator

The Act establishes the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA), which becomes the country’s independent regulator for casinos, online gambling, offshore gaming, betting operations, and gaming conducted onboard ships or within the Port City of Colombo. Under the new framework, the Authority will take over responsibilities previously divided across multiple laws. Three older statutes—the Betting on Horse-Racing Ordinance, the Gaming Ordinance, and the Casino Business (Regulation) Act of 2010—will be repealed once the new regime is in force.

Deputy Minister of Economic Development Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando, speaking earlier this year, clarified that the government’s focus is strictly regulatory. “This does not mean that the Authority will issue additional licenses for casinos or gambling establishments. The focus is on regulation. That regulation will define which gambling activities are permitted, the restrictions that apply, and matters such as the revocation or cancellation of licences,” he said. He added that the Act aims to assess risks and mitigate the potential negative impacts of gambling. “In simple terms, what this Act seeks to achieve is the regulation of gambling and all related activities under one law and through one independent authority,” Dr. Fernando noted.

Lawmakers emphasized during debate that the Authority will strengthen compliance, improve oversight of financial risks, and reinforce anti-money-laundering safeguards. Dr. Fernando also stressed that casinos must operate according to rules designed to address concerns about money laundering. Existing casino operators—including Bally’s, Bellagio, Casino Marina and Stardust—will now be supervised under the GRA after years of operating through provisional registrations.

Reshaping the Sector Through Governance and Tax Changes

The regulatory overhaul coincides with adjustments to gambling taxes introduced on 1 October 2025. The amended Betting and Gambling Levy increases the levy on gross collections for gaming operators from 15 percent to 18 percent, while the casino entry fee for Sri Lankan citizens rises from US$50 to US$100. These fiscal changes accompany a period of renewed investment interest, influenced by the August opening of City of Dreams Sri Lanka, the country’s first international integrated resort developed by John Keells Holdings and Melco Resorts & Entertainment.

The Act’s implementation represents a wider effort to unify governance at a time when Sri Lanka aims to strengthen its gaming tourism footprint. Authorities have highlighted that the GRA will issue legally enforceable social responsibility codes and apply consistent standards to both land-based and online activities. With the sector valued at US$293.93 million in 2020 and forecast to reach US$410.04 million by 2026, policymakers view the new regulator as central to ensuring transparency and long-term stability.

As the law takes effect, Sri Lanka enters a new regulatory era and continues exploring its growth potential within the regional gaming landscape, with some industry observers suggesting it could emerge as “India’s Macau” under sustained regulatory clarity and responsible market development.

Sources:

Gambling Regulatory Authority Act to take effect, themorning.lk, November 18, 2025.

The post Sri Lanka Sets December 1 Start for New Gambling Regulator appeared first on Keno Wizard.

The LCB Awards return for their fourth consecutive year, continuing a tradition of spotlighting the standout performers shaping the online gambling landscape.

Established by LCB after nearly two decades of hands-on expertise in the casino industry, the Awards reflect the platform’s long-term commitment to fairness, innovation, and meaningful contributions across the iGaming world. Designed not only to applaud exceptional operators and creators but also to raise industry standards, the event demonstrates LCB’s mission to recognize brands that significantly improve the player experience.

As in previous years, the Awards combine community participation with expert evaluation. Voting is scheduled to run fromNovember 20, 2025 to January 5, 2026, during which the LCB community will help shape the final shortlist in each category. At the same time, voting doubles as an exclusive contest for registered members, who will have the chance to share in a $6,000 prize pool for their participation.

All winners, both the iGaming brands and the members selected in the voting contest, will be announced on January 15, 2026, during a Twitch livestream. Details on how to join the stream will be shared closer to the event.

Award Divisions, Voting and Prizes

The LCB Awards 2025 feature eight distinct categories with 20 nominees each, highlighting a key area of excellence within the online casino sector. Together, they recognize achievements in overall performance, customer support, promotions, live dealer entertainment, software development and slot design.

The categories are: Best Online Casino, Helping Hand, Rising Star, Prime Perks, Live Dealer Games, Members Choice, Gamecraft Mastery, and Spin Me Round. From established leaders to emerging brands and creative studios, the Awards aim to provide a well-rounded view of the industry’s top performers over the past year.

Shortlisting is determined by votes cast by LCB members and guests during the contest period. Both registered users and guests may vote, but only registered LCB members qualify for prizes. Once the shortlists of 10 finalists in each category are determined, an LCB-appointed jury selects the winners in all categories except Members Choice, where the community alone decides the final result.

A major highlight of the Awards is the accompanying voting contest for LCB members. With a total of $6,000 in cash prizes, voters earn raffle entries simply by casting their daily votes across the eight categories. From all collected entries, 45 winners will be randomly drawn from a $5,000 main prize pool, while an additional $1,000 in consolation prizes is reserved for the most active voters. Full details of the prize structure and participation rules are available in the dedicated contest topic on the LCB forum.

As the LCB Awards 2025 move toward their livestreamed finale on January 15, anticipation continues to build. This annual celebration not only honors operators and software developers that elevate the iGaming experience, but also strengthens the connection between LCB and its global community of players.

The post Categories, Voting & Prize Details appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Two major pieces of legislation have been introduced in Romania as members of the Liberal Pro Europe Coalition seek to reshape the country’s entire approach to gambling policy. The proposals, submitted by MPs Raluca Turcan and Diana Stoica, target youth protection, stricter advertising rules, and long-overdue structural reform of the country’s regulatory framework. Together, the bills signal a political environment increasingly aligned on the need for broad changes across the sector.

Push to Raise the National Gambling Age Threshold

The first proposal comes from Raluca Turcan of the Liberal Party (PNL), who has called for the legal gambling age to be lifted from 18 to 21. Her bill represents the party’s first formal step toward gambling reform under the new coalition government and focuses squarely on preventing early exposure among young adults.

Turcan argues that individuals between 18 and 21 occupy “the most emotionally and financially vulnerable stage of those entering adulthood,” adding that this period is shaped by limited financial experience, unstable decision-making, and an increased susceptibility to high-risk behaviour. She described the measure as “the simplest measure to restrict gambling at the most fragile age,” emphasising that the change would provide “a window of emotional and financial maturity” before young adults gain access to gambling.

Her proposal also references precedents in Portugal, Greece, and Moldova, where similar age-limit increases reportedly helped reduce early-stage gambling harm and youth indebtedness. It additionally reflects recommendations from a youth report prepared by Save the Children, which urged Romania to both increase the minimum gambling age and prohibit gambling advertising across all forms of media.

A second source similarly highlights this age-related focus, noting that lawmakers consider the 18–21 bracket “one of the most fragile stages of life” and an increasingly targeted demographic for online betting promotions.

Calls for Advertising Restrictions and Structural Accountability

A separate bill filed by Diana Stoica of the Save Romania Union (USR) introduces even broader restrictions. Stoica’s proposal responds to what she describes as a “national drama hiding in plain sight,” pointing to research indicating that one in four Romanian minors has taken part in gambling activities before turning 18, with some beginning as young as 14.

Her bill includes an 06:00–24:00 prohibition on online gambling advertising, mirroring the digital consumption patterns of minors and young adults. It also seeks to remove influencers, athletes, and public personalities from all gambling campaigns on the grounds that these figures “normalise betting” for younger audiences. Additional measures would mandate highly visible addiction-risk warnings and outlaw indirect forms of advertising such as sponsorship arrangements that function as concealed marketing.

Both Turcan and Stoica’s initiatives would overhaul the Law of Games of Chance, originally introduced in 2009 and last updated in 2023. The reforms are designed to bring Romania’s legislation in line with digital-era challenges and embed stricter obligations around youth exposure, marketing practices, and risk-awareness messaging. A second source points out that countries such as Belgium, Greece, Lithuania, Ukraine, and Italy have already adopted similarly strict regimes, with Italy and Moldova even implementing complete advertising bans.

Oversight Failures Prompt Wider Regulatory Reform

The reform effort arrives after a turbulent year for Romania’s regulator, ONJN, which has faced intense criticism following a failed financial audit. The investigation revealed that the authority had neglected to collect close to €1bn in tax and licensing obligations. While ONJN attributed the issue to outdated collection systems and annual adjustments to gambling duties since 2018, the episode led to an institutional shake-up and the appointment of Vlad-Cristian Soare as the regulator’s new leader.

Despite the leadership change, USR continues to advocate for dismantling ONJN entirely. The party has suggested transferring temporary oversight of gambling to the Ministry of Taxation until a new regulatory authority with modernised compliance capabilities can be established. Their position has been further reinforced by local governments, as several mayors demanded the right to license and tax gambling premises directly, stating they had “lost all trust” in the national authority.

Coalition Momentum Signals a Sector Reset

These legislative efforts coincide with the broader objectives of Romania’s new governing coalition, which aims to realign taxation, regulation, and digital-economy policies. Finance Minister Alexandru Nazare, appointed under President Nicușor Dan, has been tasked with revisiting gambling taxation. A redesigned tax system is planned for June 2026, introducing tiered taxes on player winnings and higher licensing fees. Nazare stated, “We want to send a very important signal regarding the taxation of gambling, which we know very well how harmful it is to vulnerable communities when left unchecked.”

While the paths of the PNL and USR proposals differ, the underlying message is shared: Romania intends to implement a comprehensive restructuring of the gambling sector. Further legislative activity is expected as policymakers prepare additional measures concerning education, prevention, compliance, and long-term youth safeguards, with 2026 shaping up to be a decisive year for the direction of gambling governance in the country.

Source:

Romania to set 21+ iGaming age as Parliament considers dual reform proposals, sbcnews.co.uk, November 17, 2025.

The post Romania Debates Major Gambling Age and Ad Restrictions appeared first on Keno Wizard.